Over 90% of Rural Russian Schools Lack Sewage, Water and Heating Systems

'The Russian Health Ministry is concerned by the state of the country's schools with regard to children's health,' said Deputy Health Minister Olga Sharapova today at Health Ministry meeting on the preliminary results of a nationwide study of children's health.

Sharapova said that 31% of schools work in 2 or 3 shifts. There are around 2.2 million children (22% of total students) studying in such schools. Over 90% of primary, middle and boarding schools in rural areas need major repairs, and have no sewage system, central water supply or heating system. According to Sharapova, 29% of educational institutions do not have classroom furniture or lighting that meets health and safety standards. Around 20% use water that does not meet health and safety standards.