Postcard from Bishkek

September 1st is known as Dehn Znanniy, (Knowledge Day, or Day of Knowledge), as it is the day when the school year traditionally starts in Russia and many other former Soviet republics, including Kyrgyzstan.

It has special significance for the incoming class of first graders who come to school for the first time and often participate in a celebratory assembly on this date.  It is sometimes known as the Perviy Zvonock – or “First Bell” – and some schools uphold the tradition where a first year girl is lifted on the shoulders of a final year male pupil, and paraded around, ringing the first bell of the school year.

Students in other grades may begin studies on September 1st or a few days later, usually without any special festivities.

Traditionally the lessons on the first day of school are centered on the theme of World Peace.

It is usual to see young schoolchildren making their way to school in bright, new clothes, often a white shirt or blouse and the girls sporting red ribbons tied in bows in their hair.

The day also marks the end of summer and the beginning of autumn.