Russia/Patriotic education/Businessmen

Ria Novosti: Russian Society, mass media and business to train patriots

"In the program for 2006-2010 the state has commissioned patriotic products from the mass media, art and culture. Patriotic topics should be expanded. Examples should be found not only in Russians' heroic deeds in war and peacetime alike, but also in their achievements in science, engineering, and art, Grebenyuk said. People should be reminded of Russia's achievements in different spheres."

"So far, businessmen have taken almost no part in patriotic education and have not displayed much patriotism themselves."

"' Yet this is a creative and pro-active part of society,' Grebenyuk said. ' But it has so happened that heads of large companies and firms are people who have no experience in patriotic education.' "

"How can patriotic ideas be 'translated' in this case?"

"Businessmen should be prepared to take part in patriotic education and attracted to financing it. For example, tax benefits could be introduced for sponsors, Grebenyuk said."