Uruguayan students get a day off to watch the World Cup

The Catholic University of Uruguay has announced that all academic activities will be suspended during the days of the national team's matches in the biggest football festival on the planet. This is one of the most prestigious schools in Uruguay with more than 10,000 students, radioRTRussia reported on June 10.

In a letter to students, Álvaro Pacheco, vice-rector of the Montevideo-based school, said that one of the main tasks of students is to monitor and pay attention to the surrounding reality, not only in an academic spirit but also to immerse themselves in it, participating with society.

"It is clear that sport in general, and football in particular, is what defines us as Uruguayans. It creates a consensus and unity among the entire nation - a rare virtue in this era," wrote Álvaro Pacheco.

The World Cup has been a huge boon for students at the Catholic University of Uruguay. They hope Luis Suarez and his national team mates will go as far as possible, not only because it will bring them national pride but also give them more time off from school.

Uruguay won the World Cup twice, in 1930 and 1950. At the 2018 World Cup, the South American team is in Group A with host nation Russia, Egypt and Saudi Arabia. Uruguay is now in Russia. They will play their opening match against Egypt on June 15.