Alexander Lukashenko: Belarus will further prioritize youth support projects

MINSK, May 25 (BelTA) – The Belarusian state will further prioritize the projects “Children of Belarus”, “Youth of Belarus” and “Young Talents of Belarus”, said President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko as he met with the Belarusian gifted youth on May 25. “The growing generation has an opportunity to get modern, high-quality education, develop their skills and creativity, and have a good rest. We will further move in this direction,” Alexander Lukashenko underlined. Every school can offer extra-curriculum and other after-school activities to cater for a variety of interests. The brightest children study at 196 gymnasiums and 33 lyceums; young musicians, artists and performers attend 500 children’s art schools. The President underlined that the state support system for the fledgling intellectual and creative elite has proved to be working. Its efficiency is demonstrated by excellent results of young Belarusians at various prestigious competitions. The previous year was particularly fruitful, the head of state said. Thirty-three Belarusian schoolchildren became winners of international Olympiads, bringing 7 golden, 14 silver and 12 bronze medals. The Olympiad movement is gaining momentum in Belarus, too. Support to talented youth is provided by the special funds of the head of state. Last year alone the prizes and scholarships were given to more than 2,000 pupils, students and professors, more than 300 representatives of creative youth and 36 art groups. Last year Belarus hosted the CIS Youth Delphi Games and won 13 gold, 18 silver and 14 bronze medals. Alexander Lukashenko praised the performance of young singer Kristina Svetlichnaya at the Junior New Wave 2008 song contest. He stated with regret that so far Belarus has not achieved high results at seniour international song contests. The President wished that the high awards of the special funds of the head of state will inspire the young talents to get to new highs, to search for new ways in science and art. “But, please, remember about the big efforts that your teachers and parents have invested in every your victory. Please, appreciate their care, their lessons of art and mastery. And the main thing. Remember that you are Belarusians. Love your wonderful Motherland, glorify it through your talent,” Alexander Lukashenko said.

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