Religion to be Taught in Schools

A new discipline, “Religious Culture Basics,” was introduced in Russian schools in 2010 (starting from April 1). At the option of the parents, a pupil may chose a course in one of the four “traditional” religions (Orthodox Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Judaism), or an overview course in world religions, or, alternatively, a “Secular Ethics” course. The courses will be taught by secular teachers, but the official textbooks for religious courses were written by representatives of the religious communities. Academic experts have criticized the textbooks for being “too missionary” and unsuitable for a secular state.


http://gazeta.ru/social/2010/03/22/3341591.shtml