CHALLLENGES OF MODERNIZING RUSSIAN EDUCATION SYSTEM
The paper shows that an important component of the modernization of Russian society is an improvement of the quality of the education system. Political and socio-economic transformations of the end of the 1980 - 1990-ies significantly impacted the education in Russia. In a short period of time it was adapted to entirely new internal and external realities. However, the results of the educational system performance of the past 20 years cannot be considered satisfactory. The modern world is sending clear signals to the educational system that the post-industrial society requires highly qualified staff who are in demand in the labor market and that budget funds should be used more efficiently. Particularly important are the problems caused by the spiritual and moral chaos which Russian young people face. Therefore, the education system should be viewed not only as a set of services but primarily as an opportunity for developing moral, harmonious, responsible citizens of Russia. The main trend of the modernization of the Russian education system should be its humanization in order to develop human resources and focusing the educational process on personal development.