Events digest: highlights of the week at the National Centre RUSSIA

A meeting of the Advisory Council on Banknotes of the Bank of Russia, the 5th All-Russian Homeroom Teachers’ Forum, a meeting with the Governor of the Jewish Autonomous Region, and other significant events at the National Centre RUSSIA — all in our weekly roundup.

Meeting of Mikhail Mishustin with vocational education teachers

On 2 October, as part of Vocational Education Day, the National Centre RUSSIA was visited by the Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, Mikhail Mishustin. The Prime Minister toured the exposition "85 Years of Vocational Education: Strength in Mastery" and met with winners and prize-winners of the national contest "Master of the Year".

The tour began with the exposition "Origins and Formation", dedicated to the history of the vocational education system from the time of Peter I to the late 1980s. The exposition featured a stand highlighting prominent graduates of vocational colleges, including Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin, aircraft designer Andrei Tupolev, academician Sergei Korolev, and People’s Artist of the USSR Vyacheslav Tikhonov, among others.

"The vocational education system trains specialists without whom the development of any branch of the economy or industry would be impossible. As we’ve just seen during the exposition, this system has travelled a long and challenging path over its 85 years. I already said today, while greeting the participants of the ‘Master of the Year’ contest, that there can be no such thing as a ‘secondary’ education system — that’s a relic of the past, of the 1990s. Part of today’s exposition was dedicated to that very period," said the Prime Minister of Russia during his meeting with the contest participants.

Mikhail Mishustin emphasised that college graduates receive an excellent education that the country truly needs. According to him, it allows young people to grow, to strengthen Russia’s industrial and economic foundations, and to help achieve national development goals.

"Today, there are more than 3,200 colleges across the country, educating about 4 million young people. They can choose from over 500 specialisations in all key sectors of the economy. By the way, one of the stands presented professions that were once taught in the Soviet vocational system. They were completely different trades from various industries. Today, students can master just as many modern professions: from information technology, software development, and nuclear energy to medicine and education," noted the Prime Minister.

The head of the Government also stressed that college teachers continuously improve their skills and upgrade their qualifications at leading enterprises and specialised institutions across the country.

"Teachers give students the most up-to-date knowledge so that when they enter production, they can immediately join the process. It’s very important that we continue this clustering approach so that enterprises at the forefront of production and service development can clearly define the requirements for future employees," he added.

According to the Prime Minister, independent experts highly evaluate the readiness of college graduates for professional activity — more than 80% are employed in major companies in well-paid positions.

5th All-Russian Homeroom Teachers’ Forum

From 1 to 3 October, the National Centre RUSSIA hosted the 5th All-Russian Homeroom Teachers’ Forum — one of the largest events in the field of education and upbringing in the country. The forum brought together more than a thousand school teachers and group curators from vocational education institutions across 89 regions of Russia, as well as educators from Abkhazia, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Belarus, South Ossetia, Tajikistan, Armenia, and Uzbekistan. Participation was determined through a competitive selection process, with more than 48,000 applications submitted.

"The Homeroom Teachers’ Forum has become a true family, a genuine example of dedication and professionalism. Those who have chosen the noble vocation of teaching and mentoring set an example of true service — not only for children, their pupils, and their parents, but for everyone around them. Thank you for that," said the First Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office of Russia, Sergei Kiriyenko.

He emphasised that homeroom teachers not only guide children but also shape the future of Russia: "What your pupils believe in and what they dream about will determine not only their destiny and happiness, but also the success and future of our country."

On behalf of the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, Sergei Kiriyenko presented state awards to homeroom teachers and vocational group curators, including the Medal of the Order "For Merit to the Fatherland" II class, the honorary title "Honoured Teacher of the Russian Federation", and certificates of commendation.

This year’s forum included important decisions across several key areas. The programme featured events aimed at strengthening the professional community of teachers. Participants discussed patriotic and moral education, historical awareness, the teacher’s role in advancing Russia’s scientific and technological sovereignty, and collaboration with parents.

"For the fifth year in a row, the forum has been held successfully, and we can now confidently say that it has truly taken shape. For the first time, we have colleagues from Abkhazia, South Ossetia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan — a total of nine countries. I am sure that at the sixth forum, we will expand participation even further and invite more international colleagues. I would like to emphasise: this is not just a meeting for discussions — important decisions are made here, which are then implemented. For example, it was at this forum that the decision was made to establish the All-Russian Parents’ Committee," said the Minister of Education of the Russian Federation, Sergei Kravtsov.

Award Ceremony for the Winner and Finalists of the All-Russian Contest "Russia’s Teacher of the Year"

On 3 October, as part of the 5th All-Russian Homeroom Teachers’ Forum, an award ceremony was held for the winner and finalists of the All-Russian contest " Russia’s Teacher of the Year". The event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Dmitry Chernyshenko and Minister of Education of the Russian Federation Sergei Kravtsov.

"The school should not only provide advanced knowledge but also help every young person build a strong foundation of values in life. These are the words of our President, Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin. It is you, dear teachers and mentors, who not only educate but also guide our children, helping them find the right direction in life," emphasised Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Dmitry Chernyshenko.

He expressed special gratitude to the heroes of the special military operation, noting that they have chosen the path of mentorship, and their courage, resilience, and patriotism serve as examples for the younger generation.

"Our shared goal is to ensure equal access to quality education across the country — from the largest cities to remote areas. The Government of Russia is consistently working towards this goal, and within the framework of the national project 'Youth and Children', a modern educational infrastructure is being created. Never before in our country’s history have there been such large-scale investments specifically in educational infrastructure. Of course, what matters is not only the material base but also the moral component," added the Deputy Prime Minister.

Minister of Education of the Russian Federation Sergei Kravtsov presented awards to the best teachers and announced the winner of the "Teacher of the Year — 2025" nomination. The title went to Dmitry Balanchukov, a Chinese and English language teacher from the Belgorod region.

The winner received the large "Crystal Pelican" trophy and a monetary award of 1 million roubles. All finalists of the national stage were presented with honorary diplomas and badges featuring the contest’s emblem.

The All-Russian Homeroom Teachers’ Forum flew by quickly, noted Sergei Kravtsov. However, he emphasised that during these days, participants managed to exchange experiences and discuss key topics of their professional community.

"Dear teachers, it is a great honour for me to be among people who shape the future of our country. The way our children grow up determines what Russia will be like tomorrow. I am sure that every one of you here today has every reason to feel proud of your work. You truly deserve it. Congratulations on the upcoming Teachers’ Day!" concluded Maxim Dreval, Director General of the Russian society Znanie.

All-Russian Sports Dictation

On 5 October, the National Centre RUSSIA became the main venue of the All-Russian Sports Dictation. The event was held across the entire country, including the Primorye branch of the National Centre RUSSIA, and brought together participants eager to test their knowledge of physical education, sport, the Olympic Games, and a healthy lifestyle. In total, a quarter of a million people took part — both in person and online.

The Minister of Sport of the Russian Federation and President of the Russian Olympic Committee, Mikhail Degtyarev, thanked all participants and organisers: "Thank you to everyone who dedicated their personal time to this nationwide educational initiative. And thanks to the experts and jury members who spent days and nights debating while preparing the questions."

He also noted that the Sports Dictation will become a regular event, with questions becoming more challenging and competitive elements introduced between regions and individual participants. The main goal of the initiative is to test knowledge and preserve the memory of the sporting history of the Russian Empire, the Soviet Union, and modern Russia.

Natalia Virtuozova, Director General of the National Centre RUSSIA, emphasised the importance of hosting the event at the Centre: "This is a wonderful educational project that unites all the regions of Russia. I grew up in the Altai region, where sport was a part of everyday life, and I can say that physical activity should be present in everyone’s life."

The author of the dictation idea, three-time Olympic champion Maria Kiselyova, shared: "It took only nine months from the initial idea to the project being realised and scaled up across the entire country. The project has united all regions — it’s a great joy and a brilliant result."

The dictation lasted 45 minutes and included 25 questions on the history of the Olympic Games, the rules of various sports, and the achievements of Russian athletes. The questions were asked by outstanding athletes and public figures, including Vitaly Smirnov, Ivan Shtyl, Vladislav Tretiak, Taras Khtey, Ilgar Mamedov, Mikhail Mamiashvili, Andrei Kirilenko, and others. They addressed participants both in person from the stage of the National Centre RUSSIA and via video link from Vladivostok, Sochi, Sevastopol, and Ufa.

Meeting of the Advisory Council on Banknotes of the Bank of Russia

During the meeting of the Advisory Council on Banknotes of the Bank of Russia, experts discussed potential symbols for the new 500-rouble banknote dedicated to the North Caucasus Federal District and the city of Pyatigorsk. The Council members also finalised the list of landmarks to be included in the nationwide online vote, which began on 1 October.

The Advisory Council on Banknotes was established to provide a comprehensive expert assessment of landmarks that could be depicted on banknotes, taking into account their cultural and historical value, recognisability, and popularity. In November last year, the National Centre RUSSIA hosted a discussion on symbols for the reverse side of the new 1,000-rouble banknote dedicated to the Volga Federal District.

"Banknotes must be modernised from time to time not only to ensure they look contemporary but also to maintain a high level of protection against counterfeiting, as security features are constantly being improved," explained the Governor of the Central Bank of Russia, Elvira Nabiullina.

Despite the growth of cashless payments and digital transactions, banknotes remain the true symbol of the rouble, noted Elvira Nabiullina. According to her, the Bank of Russia takes the selection of symbols very seriously.

"The 500-rouble banknote will be dedicated to the North Caucasus Federal District and its centre, Pyatigorsk. These are extraordinarily beautiful places, rich in history and a crossroads of cultures. We asked the experts of the regional working group to compile a list of recognisable symbols that could appear on the banknote. They shortlisted six symbols of Pyatigorsk and 16 symbols from across the North Caucasus Federal District," said Elvira Nabiullina.

Among the possible designs for the obverse and reverse sides of the 500-rouble banknote are the Eagle sculpture in Pyatigorsk, the Grozny City skyscraper complex in Grozny, Mount Elbrus, Mount Mashuk, Mount Beshtau, the Derbent Fortress, the Chirkey Hydroelectric Power Station, the largest azimuthal telescope in Eurasia in Arkhyz, the Dombay ski resort, and other landmarks.

"It is no coincidence that the discussion of the 500-rouble banknote is taking place at the National Centre RUSSIA. Last November, we gathered here to discuss new symbols for the 1,000-rouble note, when 25 landmarks of the Volga Federal District were selected. The presentation of the 1,000-rouble banknote is planned soon, and we propose holding it here, at the National Centre RUSSIA," said Natalia Virtuozova, Director General of the National Centre RUSSIA.

Experts presented different approaches and shared their arguments when choosing the landmarks. They took into account not only the significance of each symbol but also how the two images — on the obverse and reverse — would complement one another.

Meeting with the Governor of the Jewish Autonomous Region, Maria Kostyuk

On 30 September, as part of the series of meetings with regional leaders "Platform of the Future: Region-2030. 100 Steps", a presentation was held by the Governor of the Jewish Autonomous Region, Maria Kostyuk. The key topic of discussion was the region’s education system. The Governor emphasised that the main priority today is investing in children and their future.

"Schools must undergo regular renovation — it should be a systemic process. This year, nine schools and one kindergarten are being fully refurbished. I can already see real changes: children are studying in modern classrooms, and teachers are working in improved conditions. But it’s not enough just to report on the work done — it’s important that such transformations become the norm," said Maria Kostyuk.

According to the Governor, the pace of modernisation in education is closely linked to the renewal of the management team. "We now have people who focus not on the process, but on the result," she stressed.

Maria Kostyuk paid particular attention to the issue of teachers’ pay. "Teachers must receive fair salaries. As an educator by training, I know from experience that when you don’t have to look for side jobs, you can truly dedicate yourself to shaping the future — not only of the Jewish Autonomous Region but of the entire country," said the Governor.

She also presented the region’s healthcare development projects. According to the Governor, one of the key challenges remains staffing the healthcare system. "Our ‘Rural Doctor’ and ‘Rural Paramedic’ programmes are working effectively. In 2021, seven specialists returned to the region, and in 2024 — already 45 doctors and paramedics. Currently, 230 students enrolled under targeted admission programmes are studying at medical universities across Russia, and in a few years, they will return to work in our region," emphasised Maria Kostyuk.

Special attention is being given to the modernisation of medical infrastructure. Hospitals are being renovated and equipped with modern technology. A principal agreement has been reached with the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation to build a new children’s polyclinic. Recruitment efforts are also ongoing.

"When the Minister of Health, Mikhail Murashko, visited us, he noted that in terms of equipment, we are at a good level. Now it’s important to ensure that qualified specialists are working with this equipment," the Governor stressed.

Maria Kostyuk’s presentation was part of the National Centre RUSSIA’s major programme in which the regions of the country present their strategic projects, achievements, and development plans.

Interactive Exposition "The Great and Mighty Russian Language" Has Opened

The interactive exposition "The Great and Mighty Russian Language" is a space where linguistics turns into a game and complex rules become accessible and engaging. It demonstrates that the Russian language is a living legacy of the nation, revealing its richness and uniqueness through interactive mechanics, audio effects, micro-quests, and other modern technologies. Here, visitors can "dust off" forgotten words, guess idioms using a kaleidoscope, choose a speech "dress code", and even place stress marks on a xylophone.

On 5 June 2025, during a meeting of the Council for the Implementation of State Policy in the Sphere of Support for the Russian Language, Adviser to the President of the Russian Federation Yelena Yampolskaya proposed creating special spaces dedicated to the Russian language at the National Centre RUSSIA and its regional branches. The initiative was supported by the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin. The first regional presentation took place at the Primorye branch of the National Centre RUSSIA, where the Head of State was the first to see the exposition "The Unique Russian Language", created on the initiative of Liliana Voronova, Head of the Department of Russian as a Foreign Language and Director of the Regional Centre for Russian Language Testing.

The new exposition allows guests to test their knowledge through play, rediscover forgotten linguistic phenomena and hidden meanings, explore interesting facts and records of the Russian language, and see how it lives and evolves every day.

The interactive space will be both useful and fascinating for schoolchildren, students, parents, teachers, and all those who love the Russian language and wish to experience its beauty and freedom in action.

All exposition materials were reviewed by PhD in Philology and Academic Secretary of the Vinogradov Institute of the Russian Language of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Anastasia Preobrazhenskaya, with all her comments and recommendations taken into account.