Starting in 2026, Russian schools will introduce a mandatory course titled "Spiritual and Moral Culture of Russia" for students in grades five through seven. This announcement was made by Alexei Lubkov, rector of Moscow Pedagogical State University (MPSU), who holds a doctorate in historical sciences and serves as an academician at the Russian Academy of Education, in an interview with TASS.
The textbook covering all three grade levels is expected to be completed by November 2025, with nationwide implementation beginning September 1, 2026. The introduction of this subject will require adjustments to the existing school curriculum.
Lubkov explained that instructors will present the spiritual and ethical principles of Russian civilization by highlighting historical figures, their biographies, and notable achievements. Supplementary teaching resources, including an instructional video series currently in development, will accompany the textbook.
"We aim to present these concepts in ways that resonate with young students," Lubkov emphasized. "Rather than focusing on abstract values, we'll use relatable examples and language appropriate for their developmental stage. The term 'values' might appear sparingly, replaced by more accessible concepts from children's daily experiences."
The textbook is being created through a collaboration between MPSU and Metropolitan Tikhon (Shevkunov), often referred to as Vladimir Putin's spiritual guide.