THE ACTIVITIES OF NATIONAL MINORITY SCHOOLS IN PODILLYA FROM 1864 to 1917

The article focuses on the analysis of the activities of national minority schools, particularly Polish and Jewish, in the Podolian province during the period of 1864 to 1917. It examines the impact of the Russification policy of the Russian Empire on the educational institutions of these communities, their contribution to the preservation of national identity, and the formation of national consciousness and cultural resistance. The author highlights the challenges faced by these schools, including the restrictions imposed by the imperial authorities, which aimed to assimilate minority groups into the dominant Russian culture. Special attention is given to the accessibility of education and the unique characteristics of the schools serving these national minorities. The article discusses how Polish and Jewish schools not only provided essential education but also acted as vital cultural hubs that fostered a sense of community and belonging among their students. Through various pedagogical approaches, these schools played a crucial role in maintaining language, traditions, and cultural practices, thereby contributing to the resilience of their respective identities. Furthermore, the author emphasizes the social consequences of the educational policies implemented during this era, which often led to tensions between the state and minority communities. The article concludes with a call for further research in this area to better understand the complexities of minority education and its role in shaping cultural identity and resistance against oppressive regimes. This analysis provides valuable insights into the historical context of education among national minorities in Podolia and their enduring legacy in contemporary discussions about cultural diversity and minority rights.