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By Samuel Asamoah
In the icy isolation of Pevek, the northernmost town in Russia, a transformative initiative is changing the face of education for schoolchildren—from primary to secondary level—thanks to the Atomclass program developed by Russia’s state nuclear energy corporation, Rosatom.
Launched in 2011 as part of the “Rosatom School” project, the Atomclass program is now active in 80 schools across 28 regions of the Russian Federation. Its mission is clear: create a modern, stimulating environment for the in-depth teaching and learning of science and mathematics, especially in underserved and hard-to-reach communities.
Pevek, located in the far reaches of the Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, is one of the latest to benefit. Despite being home to mining operations, the town struggles with limited social amenities and infrastructure. The only school in the community has historically grappled with under-resourced classrooms and a shortage of educational technology.
Today, however, students in Pevek are studying with modern laboratory tools, smart classrooms, mobile science labs, and state-of-the-art digital platforms—thanks to Rosatom’s efforts to bridge the educational divide between remote regions and metropolitan centers.
From Isolation to Innovation
The core of the Atomclass initiative lies in more than just equipment. The program emphasizes interactive learning, student-led research, and project-based education in key science subjects like chemistry, physics, biology, computer science, and math.
Transformable classroom layouts, mobile furniture, and interactive display areas foster dynamic, hands-on learning. A specially trained team of educators implements advanced methodologies in line with Federal State Educational Standards (FSES), ensuring students receive a top-tier education regardless of their location.
“As part of our corporate social responsibility, we believe in equal opportunities for every Russian child,” said a Rosatom official. “Pevek’s inclusion in the Atomclass network is a testament to our commitment to national development through education.”
National Rankings and Global Opportunities
Beyond the classroom, Atomclass students participate in national rankings based on academic engagement and extracurricular involvement. High performers are granted opportunities to attend elite educational programs hosted at the International Children’s Center Artek and the All-Russian Children’s Center Orlyonok. Students may also join international cultural exchanges, “Smart Holidays” camps, and the annual Atommeetings, where educators and learners come together to share ideas and innovations.
Teachers also benefit, with access to advanced professional development courses and methodological seminars that enhance their ability to deliver complex STEM content.
Empowering Russia’s Future, One School at a Time
The Atomclass initiative underscores Rosatom’s vision of preparing the next generation for Russia’s future in science and technology. By providing cutting-edge infrastructure and fostering talent from early education, the program is ensuring that even the most remote corners of the country—like Pevek—can contribute to national progress.
What was once a modest school in a secluded Arctic town is now a vibrant hub for scientific exploration and academic ambition. For Pevek’s young learners, Atomclass is not just an educational program—it’s a launchpad into a world of possibilities.
