YANKA KUPALA STATE UNIVERSITY OF GRODNO HOSTS DISCUSSIONS ON TRENDS AND CHALLENGES IN MODERN YOUTH POLICY
On October 29, Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno became an international venue for discussing key aspects of the upbringing and development of the younger generation. The 3rd International Scientific and Methodological Conference titled "Youth Policy and Upbringing in Contemporary Conditions", began its proceedings and will continue through October 30.
This large-scale academic forum has brought together over 100 participants from 7 countries. In her welcoming remarks, Iryna Kiturka, Rector, highlighted the interdisciplinary nature of the event:
"It is highly significant that historians, philosophers, sociologists, philologists, and legal experts have gathered here. Only through such an interdisciplinary lens can we find answers to the questions that are most vital for us and for our youth."
Tatsiana Simanouskaya, Head of the Youth Affairs Department at the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Belarus, also addressed the attendees. She noted the particular relevance of the conference theme and wished the participants productive discussions and the development of effective, practical solutions.
Aksana Kotava, Head of the Department for Ideological and Educational Work, underscored the importance of the forum:
"Today marks our third edition. The conference theme is extremely timely, as young people constitute a distinct social group that requires both traditional and innovative approaches. This forum bridges the gap between theory and practice, offering a space to discuss challenges shared across different nations. Our geographical reach has expanded significantly: while the inaugural event featured representatives only from Belarus and Russia, today we have participants from seven countries. Issues surrounding the upbringing of youth are currently a global priority, and this conference provides an opportunity to exchange new practices and research findings. This forum is set to become a recurring tradition, with its outcomes integrated into the operations of higher education institutions across the Republic of Belarus." Among the distinguished guests, Aleksandr Bolonnikau, Archpriest, Father Superior of the Kolozha Church, addressed the participants, drawing attention to the spiritual dimension of the issues under discussion:
“The modern digital age reveals that the most essential part of a human being is the soul. As we observe the development of digital technologies, we frequently hear talk of threats and fears. Yet, the phrase most often spoken by the Lord to humanity in the Bible is, ‘Do not be afraid’. It is from this perspective that we should approach the challenges of the digital era. Everything that unfolds in the virtual world is best understood through the realization that a human being is neither a digit nor a piece of technology, but a living soul. Today, the most important task is to preserve human dignity. Our conference aims, among other things, to remind young people and students of what matters most: the essence of who they are.”
During the plenary session, a welcoming address from the Rector of Irkutsk State University was also read out.
The first day of the conference is divided into two thematic sections. In the section titled “Youth in the Information World: Contemporary Realities and Challenges,” experts are discussing the evolution of the information space, the value of information for the new generation, and the phenomenon of digital volunteering.
The second section, “Youth Policy and Upbringing in the Modern Context: A Student Perspective”, focuses on the views of young people themselves. Students are sharing their experiences regarding how volunteering and the university environment shape one’s personality; they are also discu
