Saratov Governor Reprimands Education Minister Over School Meals

Governor Roman Busargin stated that organizing quality hot meals in schools is a key task for all levels of government in the region. His reaction came after sharp criticism from State Duma Chairman Vyacheslav Volodin, who called the situation unacceptable and demanded an urgent increase in funding standards.

Busargin confirmed that there are serious shortcomings in the work of the relevant ministry and local administrations. He paid special attention to the issue of unscrupulous food suppliers. The governor warned that if such facts are confirmed, the information will be immediately sent to law enforcement agencies, and the responsibility for allowing suppliers lies with local self-government bodies.

«Control over such a priority area must be the strictest. When violations are identified, personnel decisions must be made regarding the curators of this area in the districts of the region,» stated Busargin.

In connection with the identified systemic shortcomings, the governor issued a formal reprimand with an entry in the personal file to the region«s Minister of Education Alexander Pazhitnev and his deputy overseeing this area.

Recall that earlier Vyacheslav Volodin stated that the school meal funding standard in the region had not changed for about six years, and demanded that it be doubled for elementary school and increased by one and a half times for high school students.

For prompt resolution of problems, Busargin reminded about the hotline for parents. They can be contacted at the following numbers:

• +7 (8452) 49-19-61;

• +7 (8452) 23-43-69;

• +7 (8452) 49-19-87.

The line operates on weekdays from 09:00 to 18:00 (break from 13:00 to 13:50).