Moscow’s education ministry has decided to implement the use of the Kremlin-backed Max app for parent-teacher communication in the city’s schools. In a recent statement, Education Minister Sergei Kravtsov clarified that the transition to the platform would not be enforced on teachers and parents, allowing for optional adoption of the app. This move comes amid discussions about the role of technology in Russian education and the government’s increasing influence over digital platforms within the country.
The decision to promote the Max app aligns with the Kremlin’s broader strategy to control and shape the digital landscape in Russia. While the ministry emphasizes that the shift is voluntary, critics argue that the app’s association with state interests could lead to increased surveillance or data collection from parents and teachers. The policy change also raises concerns about the potential for censorship or restrictions on communication within educational institutions.
Education officials have not provided specific details on how the transition will be managed or what support will be offered to schools and families. However, the move is seen as part of a larger effort to integrate Russian technology solutions into public services, reducing reliance on foreign platforms. As the implementation details unfold, educators and parents are urged to monitor the situation and consider the implications of this digital shift in the Russian education system.