Activists from the Regional Student Media Centre of the Ministry of Education and Science Join the Summer School of Journalism

This year, the event brought together activists from regional student media centres under the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation, alongside winning teams from the social video and poster competition held as part of the 17 Values of Russia Media Relay. Among the participants is Kristina Valueva, a student from Belgorod National Research University (BelSU), representing the Department of History and Philology.

In his opening address, Valery Falkov, head of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation, highlighted the growing presence of regional branches of the Student Media Centre, which have now been established in 33 regions. He emphasized that no significant forum is complete without the involvement of SMC activists.

“The events of recent years have shown us how crucial it is to rely on our own strengths in every aspect of life and to prioritize our national interests,” Falkov stated. “We recognize the vital role that media plays in society across its diverse genres. It is you – young, talented individuals driven to succeed – who will shape the information landscape, accurately and engagingly reporting on current events while honouring our history and traditional values. These values are a source of immense strength for our multinational people. We are committed to supporting you in every way possible, creating an environment conducive to your talent development.”

This year’s Summer School is themed “Information Special Forces: Young Media Leaders of Russia.” During the opening ceremony, Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education Olga Petrova expressed her enthusiasm for the growth of student media centres.

“You are not indifferent to what happens around you. You are building a reliable, creative, positive, and ambitious world,” Petrova remarked. “The Summer School of Journalism is a valuable part of your summer experience. You will make new friends and learn new tools through engaging sessions with industry professionals.”

On the first day, media activists participated in a plenary session focused on the operations of press services. The session featured speakers including Kristina Belousova, Advisor to the Minister of Science and Higher Education; Anastasia Pechalova, Press Secretary of the President of the Russian Academy of Sciences; and Ilya Zenov, Head of the Information Policy Department and Deputy Head of the Administration of the Governor of Kaluga Region.

Over the course of five days, participants will engage in an educational program aimed at developing socially significant media projects. The top team will win a press tour to Lake Baikal, while individual participants will also compete for various awards.