(MENAFN) Starting in September 2026, Russian students in grades five through seven will begin studying a new subject titled Spiritual and Moral Culture of Russia, according to a document from the Education Ministry obtained by RIA Novosti. The course will cover topics such as patriotism, religion, family values, and national traditions.

Initially considered for integration with regional history, the subject will now stand alone under a revised title and with an expanded focus. According to the ministry, students will explore concepts such as belief in God, civic responsibility, family life, traditional marriage, freedom, dignity, and human rights.

The curriculum aims to help children apply these ideas to everyday situations, develop ethical reasoning, and encourage pride in Russian heritage while strengthening connections between generations. Lessons will incorporate cross-religious values and biographical stories of notable Russians to bring the material to life.

Moscow State Pedagogical University is currently developing the teaching resources, with input from Metropolitan Tikhon of the Russian Orthodox Church, who also advises President Vladimir Putin. University rector Aleksey Loubkov noted that lessons will be tailored for young learners, with potentially simplified terminology in place of abstract terms like “values.”

This educational initiative is part of a wider national push to reinforce traditional values. In line with this effort, Russia's lower house recently passed legislation that could ban films deemed contrary to these principles, with the law expected to take effect in March 2026.

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