In schools of the Vitebsk region, it is planned to open 24 agro-classes from September 1
From September 1, it is planned to open 24 agricultural classes in schools of the Vitebsk region, as reported by the main department for education of the regional executive committee.
Students from rural areas of the northern region will study in agricultural classes. They will be created on the basis of 10th-grade classes, and classes will be held once a week.
"Students will study crop production and animal husbandry in depth, with part of the practical training taking place on school grounds. During their studies, they will also visit the best farms in the region to familiarize themselves with new equipment and technologies," the department said.
Through elective classes, schoolchildren will gain an understanding of modern agriculture, which is important for making decisions when choosing a future profession. In addition, graduates of such classes will have the opportunity to enter agricultural universities for agricultural specialties on preferential terms.
In July 2018, the Ministry of Education approved the curriculum for the elective course "Introduction to Agricultural Professions" for students of grades 10-11 of educational institutions. It is designed to foster students' interest in agricultural professions, familiarize them with agricultural production technologies, provide knowledge about the level of technical and energy support for agricultural production, and also introduce them to the state policy for the development of the country's agro-industrial complex.
The curriculum for the elective course is designed for 140 hours. The first block covers the period of study in the 10th grade and is dedicated to an introduction to agricultural production. The second block includes issues of agricultural production. The program provides for practical classes, which include seminars, excursions, and field trips.