The council was formed to implement the provisions of presidential decree No 599 of May 7, 2012. Its goal is to enhance the competitiveness of Russia’s leading universities on the global market of educational and research programmes. At least five Russian universities should be among the world’s top one hundred by the year 2020. Opening the meeting of the council, Minister of Education and Science Dmitry Livanov said: “Our council was set up by the Government’s decision to resolve one of Russia’s main tasks – modernisation of the system of higher education and R&D. This system should be based on the most modern concepts of science and education and the experience of the leading countries and universities.”
The first session, during which criteria for selecting Russian universities were discussed, was held as a video conference. Mr Livanov emphasised: “Our work is aimed at creating the elite of Russian higher education. Russia’s leading universities should not only meet global standards, they should also form them. The council will have to adopt difficult decisions. Their results will not become apparent overnight.” The main goals of the project are to develop the infrastructure for attracting the best scientists, teachers, managers and students; actively promote the Russian system of higher education on the key markets; enhance its positions and authority in global communities; and develop an academic reputation by breakthrough research and involvement of the world’s leading scientists. According to preliminary estimates, between 35 and 50 universities will take part in the contest. They will submit their development programmes. Independent experts will test their potential and submit the documents to the council. In early July, representatives of the universities will have to defend their programmes in person, and the council will determine the winners.
