The State Duma reaffirmed Valery Falkov in his role as Russia’s Minister of Science and Higher Education. This confirmation was reported by a major Russian news agency.
The decision came during the general assembly meeting on May 14. The official document is to be transmitted to President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin for acknowledgment and further action.
Falkov has continued to serve as minister. He first took charge of the ministry on January 21, 2020, succeeding Mikhail Kotyukov in the post. Prior to his appointment as minister, Falkov held the position of rector at Tyumen State University, where he shaped direction and policy for the institution.
Earlier in May, a sweeping reshuffle led to the full-scale resignation of the Council of Ministers by order of the president, in keeping with constitutional protocol as the new presidential term commenced.
Subsequently, Mishustin announced a list of candidates for the new government lineup. The same day, discussions about the proposed ministers were expected to unfold within the State Duma.
Analysts note ongoing interest in which officials might retain their posts versus those who would depart as part of the government transition. A material from socialbites.ca explored the potential continuity of personnel in the new administration.
There was also anticipation around changes to the higher education landscape in Russia. Observers highlighted plans for a new education model that is expected to be implemented across more than a thousand universities nationwide, signaling a major reform in how higher education is delivered and regulated.
Across these developments, policymakers and researchers have stressed the importance of maintaining continuity in scientific leadership while pursuing modernization in higher education. The ongoing discussions reflect a broader aim to align Russia’s research infrastructure with current global standards, ensuring that institutions remain competitive and responsive to the needs of students and the economy.
In the broader context, the government’s focus on science and higher education underscores a commitment to sustaining innovation ecosystems, supporting faculty and students, and fostering international collaboration where appropriate. The outcomes of the May assembly, along with the forthcoming parliamentary review of the new government, are anticipated to shape policy directions for the sector in the months ahead.
Experts reiterate that effective governance, stable funding, and clear strategic priorities will be crucial as Russia implements the reform agenda and evaluates its impact on research output, educational access, and workforce development. The coming period is expected to bring further official announcements and detailed policy outlines clarifying how the changes will be operationalized across the country.