The Chairman of the Regional Executive Committee, Aleksandr Subbotin, participated in the unveiling of a mural dedicated to the Hero of the Soviet Union, leader of the Komsomol youth organization "Young Avengers", and Honorary Citizen of Vitebsk, Efrosinya Zenkova, at Vitebsk Secondary School No. 28.
– On the eve of a significant date – the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Vitebsk from the Nazi invaders – we are unveiling a mural, thereby paying tribute to a true patriot whose name is proudly borne by this educational institution, – noted Aleksandr Subbotin. – It is symbolic that the mural has appeared on the facade of the educational institution, as children must know and be able to defend the truth about the Great Patriotic War. The image of the hero on the school wall will remind everyone of the heroic past of our countrymen.
The head of the region recalled that Efrosinya Zenkova, a native of the Shumilino district, at the age of 18 managed to organize an underground group consisting of students from the Obol school, and at the risk of her life, successfully carried out sabotage operations. And today, her personal story is a symbol of courage, determination, and devotion to her native land.
– In the Vitebsk region, most educational institutions are named after defenders of the homeland who left their bright mark on the country's destiny. This is a significant contribution to preserving our shared memory of heroic deeds, which is of paramount importance for the patriotic education of the younger generation. The Belarusian people, more than anyone, know the price of peace and Victory. And today, when humanity has once again found itself on the brink of global conflict, we confidently defend our right to a peaceful future, – emphasized Aleksandr Subbotin.
The mural was created on the initiative of the leadership of the Department of the State Committee of Forensic Examinations for the Vitebsk Region. All members of the expert department of the northern region supported the fundraising for its creation.
By the way. In 1958, our countrywoman was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union with the Order of Lenin and the Gold Star Medal.
Within the school walls, an updated museum "Blockaded Leningrad" was also opened. It features original and copied documents, letters, and autobiographies of people who participated in the defense of besieged Leningrad, as well as newspaper clippings, photographs, awards, blockade bread, and diaries. Tatiana Leonenkova, a teacher of Belarusian language and literature, develops excursions for students and trains young guides.