Opinions & Interviews

IVATSEVICHI DISTRICT, 5 October (BelTA) – I am happy that my children have not joined the ranks of gilded youth, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko told the media on 5 October, BelTA has learned.

“With my kids I use different approaches. Sometimes I can be tough. I am president, so, probably, children keep this in mind and try not to upset me,” Alexander Lukashenko said. “I am not an example to follow in children upbringing. My children do understand that they cannot let their father down. I am happy that they have not grown up to become the gilded youth,” Alexander Lukashenko added.

“I think you know that I am sincere. You have never seen my children showing off or bragging anywhere. And if you happen to see, then tell me. My reaction will be swift. I am teaching them to live like regular people,” he said.

The head of state said that each of his elder sons takes care of an educational institution and provides them assistance before the start of the school year. The younger son has also supported his schoolmates. Several dozens of them were provided with school supplies and uniforms. “We donated the money that he earned during the summer, his elder brothers also pitched in a little. I contributed two monthly salaries, my people also did their bit, and as a result we donated this sum and helped fifty students. It is the way he learns: help those in need if you can,” Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko said.

He recollected his school years when schoolchildren carried textbooks in scarves because there was no money to buy a rucksack. “We need to give back and to teach children by such examples,” the head of state said.

The president believes that the child must not only go to school to study but also have some hobbies. “Indeed, he needs to learn the curriculum, be literate. But he must also go in for sports to grow into a nice man so that he could raise his kids in the future and be healthy. You don't have to be a world champion if this is not the goal that you pursue. You just have to go in for sports. If you have a soft spot for art or music, then you must pursue them too,” Alexander Lukashenko said.