In Russia, access to higher education continues to be expanded for participants in the so-called "special military operation" and members of their families in order to create a privileged status for Russian military personnel. This year, more than 4,300 participants in the war against Ukraine and their children enrolled in Russian higher education institutions. Almost 40% of applicants were admitted without entrance examinations. The Center for Countering Disinformation of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine reports, as UNN informs.
Details
Russia's policy of creating a privileged status for participants in the so-called "special military operation" and members of their families continues. One of its elements is expanding access to higher education through special quotas, preferential admission, and other educational benefits
In particular, according to the CCD, this year more than 4,300 participants in the war against Ukraine and their children were admitted to Russian higher education institutions—one and a half times more than last year. Almost 40% of them were admitted without entrance examinations. Approximately two-thirds would not have been able to pass the competition under the general rules without preferential status.
This policy demonstrates Moscow's prioritization of the militarization of society. Through the system of benefits, the Kremlin encourages its citizens to participate in the war against Ukraine, creating additional advantages for those connected with military service
At the same time, the authorities are imposing maximum restrictions on ordinary Russians' admission to higher education institutions.
Recently, a significant increase in the cost of contract-based education at leading universities in the Russian Federation became known, making higher education inaccessible to most Russians. The Center also reported that the Russian authorities systematically use educational institutions as platforms for recruitment for the war against Ukraine
Reminder
The share of students in upper secondary schools in the Russian Federation fell to 42.7%. Teenagers are being massively recruited to produce drones instead of pursuing higher education.