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Putin suggests giving religious institutes equal status with state ones

He also called for paying attention to preschool education

MOSCOW, February 9 (Itar-Tass) — Prime Minister and presidential candidate Vladimir Putin suggested giving religious higher educational institutions the same status as state ones have and allowing religious non-profit organisations to bid in tenders for social services.

“We must solve the fundamental question and equalise higher educational institutions and schools created with the participation of religious organisations with state ones in terms of lease, access to budget funds and salaries to teachers who teach subjects covered by educational standards,” Putin said.

He also called for paying attention to preschool education. “The desire of religious organisations to open new kindergartens and provide enlightening assistance to existing preschool institutions should be actively supported at all levels,” he said.

“I also believe that non-profit organisations created with the participation of the Church should have access to tenders for public and municipal contracts for social services, especially since such organisations often work more effectively in this respect,” Putin said.