Training seminar at the National Centre RUSSIA brought together over 100 representatives of regional education authorities

On November 15, the National Centre RUSSIA hosted the All-Russian seminar for press secretaries of regional education authorities. Participants focused on strategies for regional information policies in the field of education. The seminar was organized by the Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation and the Centre for Educational Initiatives, with support from the National Centre RUSSIA.

Attendees discussed key issues related to information support in the education and enlightenment sectors, such as creating positive media narratives and news hooks, crisis communication strategies, working with new media, and building personal branding.

The event opened with the plenary session "Education in Focus: Development Horizons and Information Challenges." Speakers included Alexei Zharich, Deputy Head of the Presidential Directorate for Social Projects; Vladimir Zhelonkin, Advisor to the Minister of Education of the Russian Federation; Alexander Khinshtein, Chair of the State Duma Committee on Information Policy, Information Technology and Communications; Sofia Malyavina, General Director of the ANO "National Priorities"; and Marina Kim, TV journalist and State Duma Deputy.

In his speech, Vladimir Zhelonkin emphasized that trust in the education system depends on the professional skills of its representatives and the correct communication strategies.

"Trust in the education system depends on your professionalism, talents, and responsiveness. I hope that today's dialogue enriches us with new experiences. We have invited experts from the Presidential Executive Office, the State Duma, public organizations, and federal media. They will share their best practices," said Vladimir Zhelonkin.

Alexander Khinshtein addressed combating fake news and ensuring information security. He stressed that press secretaries have to respond quickly to fake news and take initiative in such matters.

"We live in an era of rapid response, and informational confrontation does not tolerate a void. When a fake starts to spread, the absence of any reaction from the authorities allows it to trend, and catching up with a moving train is far more challenging. Here’s my advice to you: don't fear taking initiative. If you notice critical information situations, respond immediately, even if you don’t have an opportunity to get approval. The consequences of inaction can be far worse than acting without full approval," stated Alexander Khinshtein.

Sofia Malyavina spoke about the informational support for the National Project "Education," highlighting that thanks to effective teamwork, the project’s recognition level reached 74%, ranking second among all national projects. Building on this positive experience, she provided recommendations for supporting the new national project "Youth and Children."

"Education is one of the most vital and responsible areas of national development, laying the foundation for the successful future of both individuals and society as a whole. Today's event will help us develop effective communication strategies to achieve our shared goals. In a world where new media dominate and changes occur rapidly, this is critically important," concluded Marina Kim, moderator of the session.

The National Centre RUSSIA was established by order of the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, to preserve the legacy of the International RUSSIA EXPO and to showcase the achievements of the country and its citizens on a permanent basis. Federal government agencies, state companies, corporations, and regions take part in the Centre’s work. The first event at the National Centre RUSSIA was the International Symposium "Inventing the Future," which welcomed more than 6,000 guests from 101 countries. The National Centre RUSSIA is located at 14 Krasnopresnenskaya Embankment, Moscow. The Centre is open from 10:00 to 20:00 every day except Monday.