The Russian Ministry of Culture has addressed rumors about changes to the Pushkin Card program, clarifying the situation through a post on its official Telegram channel by Olga Lyubimova, the minister responsible for culture. The ministry stated that the program will receive full funding for the 2024–2025 period, ensuring continuity for participants and sponsors alike.
Lyubimova explained that Pushkin Card holders who are children and teenagers aged 14 to 22 will be able to use their annual renewal allowance of 5,000 rubles to purchase entrance tickets to all events included in the program. If need be, additional funds will be allocated to bolster the program’s offerings and maintain access for eligible participants throughout the year.
Earlier in September, Yana Lantratova, First Deputy Chair of the State Duma Committee on Education, discussed potential expansions to the program that could extend benefits to older children, beyond the current age range. She indicated that she had received inquiries from parents and teachers requesting an extension of age eligibility for card recipients, highlighting a public interest in broader access to cultural experiences through the Pushkin Card system.
In related, albeit separate, news, there were reports from the United Kingdom concerning reductions to similar cultural or charitable initiatives, though these developments pertain to different programs and contexts. Observers note that policy discussions around public funding for cultural and educational initiatives continue to evolve across various regions, with stakeholders weighing the impact on youth engagement, accessibility, and the preservation of national heritage.