President Vladimir Putin on Friday eulogized educators in Russia for nurturing civilians and soldiers who have exemplified excellence in national service and other areas.
Putin spoke at the new Sirius Concert Hall during a ceremony where he presented state awards to teachers and mentors of participants in the special military operation.
The president noted that their students, currently Russian Army officers, have gallantly passed the most important exam on loyalty to their motherland.
“The strength of Russia lies in its distinctive and sovereign education system,” Putin said while honoring Oleg Plesovskikh, a history teacher; Svetlana Stepanova, a retired teacher; and Tatyana Timkina, a veterans’ organization staff.
Others include Vyacheslav Ivanov, Director of Bastion Sports School in Vladivostok; Svetlana Magera, language and literature teacher from Pskov; and Zoya Nikitina, from the Tikhvin district, Leningrad region.
According to Putin, their mentees deployed to the ongoing war in Ukraine have displayed bravery as they defend Russia’s interests, freedom, statehood, and sovereignty.
The leader said he was proud of the “heroes” for winning decisive victories in battles and achieving outstanding accomplishments in art, science, and sport.
Putin stressed that teachers’ commitment to their calling, people, and community has led Russia forward in every historical era and served as a moral beacon for generations.
He congratulated tutors on the October 5th Teachers’ Day celebration, urging them to continue the Russian pedagogy and preserve the nation’s uniqueness and global strong standing.
Russia’s strength lies in education system – Putin