Vladimir Putin has ordered a sweeping revision of educational programs in Russian universities and schools, calling for the removal of outdated and archaic courses.
Speaking at a meeting of the Council for Science and Education, the Russian president stated that higher education must align with modern industry demands, proposing an increase in practical training using contemporary design and construction tools.
Shifting Priorities in Higher Education
As reported by The Moscow Times, Putin has argued that many academic programs fail to align with the evolving needs of the economy.
"At the same time, it is necessary to eliminate outdated, sometimes outright archaic, courses and programs that no longer meet the demands of the economy. This, by the way, is one of the key reasons students lose interest in their future profession and, in some cases, drop out of school," he stated.
To address this issue, he called for a stronger emphasis on real-world applications in university curricula.
Mathematics and Science Under Review
Beyond universities, Putin also advocated for a major update to school programs, particularly in mathematics and natural sciences.
He stressed the need for a balanced, engaging curriculum, noting that students often lose interest in these subjects early on, which affects their preparedness for technical fields.
"This, of course, does not mean that our children do not have the appropriate talents, the ability to master this knowledge. One of the reasons, as the teachers themselves say, is the content of the primary and secondary school programs," he explained.
He highlighted grades 5–9 as a crucial period for forming a strong foundation in technical education and called for adjustments to ensure students stay engaged.
Acknowledging that many students juggle their studies with work, Putin also proposed individual educational plans and hybrid learning models that offer flexibility without compromising academic standards.
