"Conversations about important things" 2025-2026: the history of the project and topics for the academic year

"Conversations about the important" have been held in Russian schools since 2022. During this time, students of all ages discussed many topics related to the history of our country, artificial intelligence, financial literacy and much more. The purpose of extracurricular activities is to strengthen traditional Russian spiritual values among children and adolescents. The topics of "Talking about important things" for the academic year 2025-2026 are in the Izvestia material.

"Conversations about important things": project history, goals

The idea of "Talking about important things" appeared in June 2022, and in September of the same year, weekly extracurricular classes began in schools and colleges in Russia. The project itself was launched by the Russian Ministry of Education and is conducted in a classroom format once a week with the first lesson on Monday. Before that, traditionally, there is a solemn assembly with the raising of the flag of the Russian Federation and the performance of the national anthem.

Lessons and methodological materials for class hours are developed by the Ministry of Education with the participation of specialized institutes. The purpose of such classes is the formation of patriotism and civic education among schoolchildren, as well as the strengthening of traditional Russian spiritual and moral values.

The program of the course "Conversations about important things" is designed for students in grades 1-11, as well as college students. In one academic year, classes are given about 34 hours. Currently, the Institute for the Study of Childhood, Family and Upbringing is coordinating and providing methodological support for "Conversations about Important Things." It is important to note that each lesson is dedicated to a specific topic, but the materials and complexity are adapted to the age of the students.

Topics of "Talking about important things" in the 2025-2026 academic year

The program of classes for a month is published on the official website of the project, and all educational materials, which include a script, video, presentation, and other files, become available closer to the lesson date.

The following topics have been announced for September 2025:

— Why should a person study? (the lesson took place on September 1st);

— Russian language in the Digital Age (scheduled for September 8th);

— Digital sovereignty of the country (to be held on September 15);

— A peaceful atom. Nuclear Industry Worker's Day (September 22);

— About creativity. Music Day (September 29).

Among other topics to be held in the new academic year: "About Russian cities" (for National Unity Day); "Breeding and genetics" (for the 170th anniversary of Ivan Vladimirovich Michurin); "How do you create cartoons?"; "How do you create your own business?"; "How does garbage get" the second life"? Recycling technologies"; "Values that unite us" and others.

The topics of "Talking about important things" often overlap with state commemorations or important historical events, as well as anniversaries of honored cultural and scientific figures.

How are the "Conversations about important" classes going?

The lesson in the framework of the project "Conversations about important things" is conditionally divided into three parts:

— motivational. A video or other media material sets the topic of the lesson);

— the main one. Students work in teams, perform practical tasks, and answer teacher's questions.;

— the final one. The lesson is summarized and feedback is provided.

Regardless of the class, the lesson plan remains the same, however, it is emphasized that it can and should be adapted to the specifics of the class, the needs of parents, as well as ethnocultural and regional peculiarities.

Is it necessary to attend "Conversations about important things"

"Talking about important things" is an extracurricular activity, so grades are not provided, but classes are mandatory. According to Article 43 of the Federal Law "On Education in the Russian Federation", students are required to attend lessons provided for in the curriculum. Skipping "Conversations about important things" without a valid reason is regarded as absenteeism.