What were the main steps in the development of education for Kalmyk children during the 19th century?

Development of Education for Kalmyk Children in the 19th Century

The development of education for Kalmyk children in the 19th century progressed through several key stages:

1. Establishment of Initial Schools: The process of educating Kalmyk children in literacy began in the mid-19th century. A significant milestone was the opening of the first secular two-class school on December 6, 1849, which initially admitted 50 Kalmyk children.
2. Expansion of Educational Institutions: By 1862, a feldsher department was opened at the school, indicating a broadening of educational scope. In 1864, ten more boys were admitted for training in gymnasium programs. The financial support for these schools and teachers came from the Kalmyk community's capital.
3. Opening of Literacy Schools in Uluses: A crucial step was the establishment of five literacy schools in various uluses starting in 1854. These schools, which typically had 10-20 students each, provided basic education in Russian and Kalmyk languages, including reading, writing, and arithmetic.
4. Curriculum: The curriculum in these ulus schools focused on fundamental skills such as reading and writing in both Russian and Kalmyk, as well as arithmetic, enabling students to perform calculations.

Conclusion: The 19th century witnessed a systematic effort to establish and expand educational opportunities for Kalmyk children, moving from initial school openings to a network of literacy schools across different regions, laying the foundation for future educational development.