Going To School In The Coldest Town On Earth (−64°C, −84°F) | Yakutsk, Siberia

Introduction

Imagine waking up in the coldest city on Earth, where temperatures can plummet to a bone-chilling -47 degrees Celsius. This is the reality for 11-year-old Lionel, a student in Yakutsk, a city known for its extreme cold. In this essay, we will explore Lionel's daily life and how the people of Yakutsk adapt and thrive in this frigid environment.

The Battle Against the Cold

For Lionel, getting ready for school in Yakutsk is no ordinary task. He understands the importance of wearing proper clothing to protect himself from the harsh cold. Padded trousers, warm boots, and a thick jacket become his armor against the freezing temperatures. With a 40-minute journey to school, Lionel relies on the public transport system, braving the cold at bus stops located every 200 meters. The wait can be challenging, as frostbite becomes a real threat if the bus is delayed. Thankfully, the buses in Yakutsk are equipped with heating systems, providing some respite from the biting cold.

A Unique Education System

Yakutsk's education system is as resilient as its people. Lionel attends school six days a week, from Monday to Saturday, with classes starting at 8 AM and ending at 1 PM. The school year runs from September to June, aligning with global standards. However, when temperatures plunge below -50 degrees Celsius, schools close to prioritize student safety. Yet, even at -49 degrees Celsius, or even -47 degrees like today, students like Lionel still make their way to school.

Language and Academic Pursuits

Yakutsk's educational curriculum reflects its diverse cultural heritage. At school, Lionel learns three languages: Yakut, Russian, and English. The Yakut language, also known as Sakha, holds deep significance as the native language of the Yakut people. As Lionel progresses to middle school, he begins preparing for the Unified State Exam (USE), a crucial step towards gaining admission to university. The competitive nature of university admissions in Yakutia prompts students to start their preparations early, even during middle school.

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Staying Active Indoors

Yakutsk's extreme cold forces students to remain indoors during breaks. However, Lionel seizes every opportunity to improve his football skills, a passion that fuels his dreams of becoming a professional player like his idol, Lionel Messi. Teachers also organize indoor activities, such as dance classes, to keep students active and healthy despite the harsh weather.

A Family Bonded by Passion

As the school day ends, Lionel eagerly awaits his father, Prokopiy, a football coach at a nearby club. Their shared passion for the sport strengthens their bond, with training sessions and match-watching becoming cherished moments. Together, they visit the local open-air market, where the freezing temperatures naturally preserve the meat and fish. Yakutians heavily rely on these protein-rich foods during the winter months. Fresh vegetables, however, are scarce and expensive due to the inhospitable growing conditions.

Finding Warmth in Family

Despite the challenges of living in Yakutsk, the warmth, love, and unity of Lionel's family make the experience worthwhile. Even in the face of extreme cold, they find joy in spending time together and refuse to be confined indoors for the majority of the year. The Yakut people have learned to adapt and embrace their unique climate, finding solace and happiness in the company of loved ones.

Conclusion

Living in the coldest city on Earth may seem daunting, but the people of Yakutsk have discovered the secret to thriving in extreme conditions. Through resilience, adaptability, and the support of their community, they turn challenges into opportunities. Lionel's story reminds us that it's not where we live that matters most, but the bonds we form and the love we share with those around us. So, let us embrace the warmth of family and the unity of community, no matter where life takes us.