Russian Schools to Offer Compulsory Study Courses Beginning September 1, 2024
Starting next school year, Russian educational policy will include compulsory study courses in schools across the country. The initiative, reported by RIA News, marks a notable shift in the curriculum and highlights the government’s focus on expanding hands-on learning and practical skills for students.
The draft law itself contains amendments that address various rules governing classroom conduct, including a provision on mandatory study classes. The exact language confirms that the regulation on compulsory study courses will come into force on September 1, 2024, reinforcing the government’s plan to formalize these classes as a standard part of the school day. This provision is part of a broader package of changes under consideration by lawmakers and education officials.
Earlier in the year, the State Duma advanced the draft law in its first reading, proposing a ban on phone use during classes in schools. The shift aims to minimize distractions and refocus student attention on instruction. Under the new framework, smartphones would generally be prohibited in the classroom unless teachers grant explicit permission, and exceptions would be allowed in cases of emergencies or other life-threatening situations. The move reflects ongoing debates about technology in education and how to balance digital access with classroom discipline.
In May, the issue drew comments from the Russian Education Minister, Sergei Kravtsov, who indicated that the ministry was examining the possibility of reintroducing labor-oriented lessons into the school curriculum. The minister noted that the course titled “Labor and Technology” would provide students with opportunities to demonstrate practical skills and to create items with their own hands, thereby broadening the set of competencies taught in schools. This emphasis on hands-on activities aligns with broader educational goals to prepare students for tangible, real-world tasks and to cultivate creativity alongside theoretical knowledge.
Public response to past labor lessons in schools has varied. Some communities questioned their usefulness, while others argued that practical activities help students acquire valuable experience and problem-solving abilities. The current discussions about compulsory study courses and the possible revival of labor-focused modules reflect a broader trend in education policy toward blending theoretical instruction with practical application, student empowerment, and project-based learning. The evolving framework seeks to equip young people with a wider range of skills while maintaining academic rigor and relevance in a rapidly changing world. [General context]