FROM GRODNO TO MAKHACHKALA: YANKA KUPALA STATE UNIVERSITY OF GRODNO REPRESENTATIVE ATTENDS TRADE UNION CONGRESS IN DAGESTAN

Anna Sazonava, chair of the trade union organization at Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno, took part in the 39th Congress of the Eurasian Association of University Trade Union Organizations as a member of the delegation from the Republic of Belarus. The event, held in Makhachkala from October 12 to 14, was aimed at facilitating the exchange of experience and exploring youth initiatives and the cultural traditions of the Republic of Dagestan. The forum brought together representatives from 41 universities across four countries.

The choice of Makhachkala as the host city was significant, as Dagestan State University celebrated its 95th anniversary on October 8, 2026.

The congress program was extensive. On the first day, participants visited a branch of Dagestan State University in the ancient city of Derbent. During the plenary sessions, a book titled “Those Who Stepped into Immortality” by Professor Vladimir Vasiliev of Chuvash State University in collaboration with representatives from YKSUG was presented. Additionally, the third edition of an almanac featuring creative works by finalists of the “Constellation of Talents” competition was unveiled; the collection includes contributions from four individuals associated with Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno.

The second day of the congress was dedicated to professional discussions. Members of the Belarusian Trade Union of Education and Science Workers delegation presented their projects and initiatives to their international counterparts. The parties exchanged experiences and explored prospects for future cooperation. As part of the second day’s agenda, participants also visited the Sarykum sand dunes – a unique scientific, historical, and tourist landmark. On the final day of the congress, members of the Belarusian delegation took part in a celebratory event marking the 95th anniversary of Dagestan State University, where they shared ideas and new approaches for promoting the trade union movement. The congress concluded on a heartfelt note with a literary gathering in memory of Rasul Gamzatov, during which the Belarusian delegates recited the poem “A Word About Mother”. The recitation was particularly moving, as October 14th is celebrated as Mother’s Day in the Republic of Belarus.

Anna Sazonava noted that the congress not only provided an opportunity to strengthen ties but also served as a source of renewed energy:

"Participating in the congress of the Eurasian Association of University Trade Union Organizations was a truly memorable experience. It is a unique platform for generating new ideas and building valuable connections. Exchanging experiences with colleagues from various countries, engaging in lively discussions on pressing issues, and working together to find solutions, all of this is incredibly energizing and provides a powerful impetus for future endeavors".

Taking part in such international events has made it possible not only to share expertise and discover new ideas for the trade union movement but also to reinforce existing professional relationships.

LANGUAGE, MEDIA, AND DIALOGUE: REPRESENTATIVE FROM YANKA KUPALA STATE UNIVERSITY OF GRODNO SPEAKS AT INTERNATIONAL CULTURAL CONFERENCE IN MOGILEV

A.A. Kuleshov Mogilev State University hosted the 2nd International Educational Conference, "The Russian Language in the Context of Multiculturalism".

The conference addressed a range of topics, including modern paradigms for teaching English as a foreign language, challenges of intercultural communication in the teaching of Russian as a foreign language, the role of the Russian language in a multi-ethnic society, issues of interlingual interference and the ecology of the linguistic environment, cultural dialogue in a multilingual setting and Russian literature within the global cultural and educational landscape.

The event brought together academic centers from six countries: Belarus, Russia, Azerbaijan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Italy, and Cuba.

Tatsiana Sivava, an associate professor in the Department of Journalism, presented a paper titled "Color-Based Periphrasis as a Means of Representing Temporal Meanings". Her presentation explored the specific characteristics and formation of periphrastic expressions involving color terms that convey temporal meanings, as found in Russian-language Belarusian media texts.

A collection of academic papers based on the conference proceedings will be published. It will be made available via open access through the Russian Science Electronic Library (elibrary.ru) and indexed in the Russian Science Citation Index (RSCI).

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"I WANT TO RETURN HERE AS THE MOTHER OF A UNIVERSITY STUDENT!": HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 3RD OPEN PARENT MEETING AT KUPALA UNIVERSITY

Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno hosted a large-scale open meeting for parents, featuring Rector Iryna Kiturka. This innovative format for engaging with the families of prospective students—pioneered in the country by Kupala University—drew over 500 attendees to the university’s assembly hall, with an additional 150+ viewers tuning in via a live stream on the official YouTube channel.

The primary objective of the meeting was to provide parents and high school students with comprehensive, reliable information to help them chart a successful educational and career path.

The event kicked off with a vibrant performance by the "Kroki" stylized dance studio.

Iryna Kiturka, Rector of Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno, Doctor of Historical Sciences and a professor, delivered a welcoming address and a detailed presentation.

"At the start of each academic year, as part of 'Parental Love Week,' we traditionally invite the parents of graduating high school students to an open meeting—this is the third time we have held an event in this format," noted Iryna Kiturka. "High school students and their families are now entering a critical phase: it is time to choose not only a future profession but also the university where they will pursue their studies. Our university’s mission is to identify, unlock, and realize the potential of every student and staff member—that is truly what we strive for."

In her address, the Rector outlined key milestones in the university’s history—from its origins as a Teachers' Institute in 1940 to its current status as a leading regional center for education, science, and culture.

Today, Kupala University comprises 13 faculties and 4 colleges, offering a multi-level system of continuous education. The university features a unique digital ecosystem called "Smart University," which includes a personal student account, a mobile class schedule, an electronic grade book, and 100% access to study materials from anywhere in the world. It holds a recognized international reputation, appearing in prestigious global rankings (such as Webometrics, THE Impact Rankings, and UI GreenMetric). Furthermore, one in five full-time students is an international citizen—with over 2,500 international students representing 32 countries. Additionally, Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno is a five-time recipient of the Government of the Republic of Belarus Prize for achievements in quality.

During her presentation, the Rector highlighted the social support system, noting that students can receive tuition discounts of up to 60%, transition to state-funded (tuition-free) spots, and access financial stipends or grants from a fund dedicated to supporting talented youth.

The university offers an ideal environment for prospective students, ranging from standard admission pathways to an increased number of spots for targeted training programs, as well as admission without entrance exams for top-performing students (medalists) and winners of academic Olympiads.

During an "open microphone" session, parents had the opportunity to ask the Rector questions directly. Topics included benefits for orphans, admission pathways for graduates of specialized pedagogical high school classes, opportunities for pursuing master’s and doctoral (postgraduate) degrees, and various other matters.

Following the formal proceedings and a musical performance by soloists from the "Unison" studio, the parent meeting transitioned to interactive zones. Guests were able to speak with Avak Vartanian, Executive Secretary of the Admissions Committee, as well as the deans of all 13 faculties. Families learned about admission score thresholds, the specifics of various academic programs and post-graduation job placement, and explored the university’s athletic and creative opportunities.

"Every October, we hold this event, where all of our university’s faculties are represented." "Here, parents can speak directly with the rector, deans, and faculty members, learn about the specifics of the training provided in each field of study, and get answers to any questions—including those regarding upcoming changes to the admissions process—from the admissions committee staff. For families from the Grodno region and other parts of Belarus, this is a wonderful opportunity to see the university in person," noted Avak Vartanian.

Parents showed particular interest in a meeting with prospective employers. Representatives from various enterprises and organizations in the Grodno region discussed high-demand professions, the nature of future internships, and guaranteed job placement.

For many families, this open dialogue serves as an excellent chance not only to learn about admission requirements firsthand but also to get acquainted with the faculties, teaching staff, and the future student environment. Among the attendees was Palina Prakapenya, a high school student from Secondary School No. 5 named after V.L. Volodos in Mosty. She has already decided on her professional path:

"I am considering the 'Jurisprudence' program at the Faculty of Law. I have always gravitated toward the humanities, and I am especially fascinated by the history of Belarus."

Tatsiana Prokopenya supports her daughter’s choice, as she herself was once part of the extended Kupala University family:

"I graduated from the Faculty of History in 2004 and defended my master’s thesis here in 2009. Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno is my alma mater. I look back on the years spent within these walls with great warmth—they were the best of times. Today, I was reminded once again that Kupala University is truly the best."

Evialina Shchuka, another student from School No. 5 named after V.L. Volodos in Mosty, is also drawn to the Faculty of Law, specifically the "Jurisprudence" program.

Her mother, Sviatlana Shchuka, shared her impressions of the open meeting:

"The meeting left a wonderful impression. All the information was presented clearly and accessibly, and the event was organized to a very high standard. The university has truly captured our interest. Naturally, I’m now very keen to return here—this time as the mother of a university student!"

YANKA KUPALA STATE UNIVERSITY OF GRODNO PLANS TO LAUNCH A JOINT CYBERSECURITY LABORATORY WITH A LEADING RUSSIAN DEVELOPER IN THE FIELD

On October 16, a delegation from UserGate, a Russian developer of software and microelectronics for information security, visited YKSUG. The highlight of the visit was the signing of a cooperation agreement under the "UserGate Educational Partnership" academic program.

A key topic of discussion was the establishment of a training and practical laboratory for monitoring and preventing cyberattacks at YKSUG. The project includes a complete renovation of the facility and the procurement of cutting-edge equipment, fully funded by UserGate. A similar, successful center was launched at the Belarusian State University this September.

"For us, collaborating with universities that host specialized departments in information security and cybersecurity is of paramount importance. The next step in our partnership with Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno will be the opening of a laboratory where students can hone their practical skills," said Margarita Zaitseva, Director of the UserGate Academy, regarding the plans for the new university-based lab.

Margarita Zaitseva also emphasized that this collaboration is mutually beneficial: the company requires young professionals who are familiar with digital solutions, know how to work with them effectively, and are prepared to contribute to real-world projects immediately upon graduation.

"We are committed to investing in the future—by training faculty and students, and by providing comprehensive support for academic olympiads and professional skills competitions."

Integrating UserGate’s expertise into the educational process will significantly strengthen the practical training of future IT specialists. The partnership includes the establishment of a laboratory fully equipped with modern software, comprehensive educational and methodological materials, and ongoing technical support from the vendor. It also entails masterclasses, workshops, and lectures led by the company’s top industry experts; the creation of a UserGate Academy scholarship for high-achieving students; sponsorship of university-level cybersecurity competitions; and the provision of specialized internships for promising students, with the potential for future employment and the development of a talent pipeline.

Liavontsi Paulau, Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs, noted that Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno and the UserGate Academy already share a history of successful collaboration—most recently, the signing of a license agreement in June for the provision of software and educational materials.

"Today, we are taking the next step. Our university has adopted a practice-oriented educational model, and we recognize that without collaboration with organizations and enterprises operating directly in the field, we cannot produce the kind of specialists that employers expect. Access to modern software, educational materials, and equipment is therefore vital for us. The scope of this cooperation is very broad, and we are, of course, very pleased about that," emphasized Liavontsi Paulau.

The laboratory will serve as a foundation for integrating real-world industry case studies into courses focused on the protection of networks and information systems. The updated curricula will benefit students in the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics, specifically those enrolled in programs such as Cybersecurity, Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Applied Mathematics, and Information Resource Management.

These new opportunities will also be available to students from other faculties. Students will be able to build a strong portfolio while still pursuing their studies, while faculty members will be able to update course content and boost research activities.

Similar laboratories have been established at leading Russian universities, including the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI, Russian Technological University MIREA, Saint Petersburg State University of Telecommunications named after Bonch-Bruevich, Novosibirsk State Technical University, and others.

COGNITIVE SECURITY AND INTERNATIONAL DIALOGUE: KUPALA UNIVERSITY LECTURER DELIVERS A "GOLDEN LECTURE" TO CIS COLLEAGUES

Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno continues to actively strengthen its international ties and foster academic dialogue. On October 15, Sniazhana Semiarnik, Head of the Department of Philosophy, Doctor of Philosophical Sciences and Professor, delivered a lecture as part of the "Golden Lecture" — an international online educational project for CIS countries.

Her presentation titled "Cognitive Security of Society: An Anthropological Approach," sparked significant interest among the project participants, who engaged in a lively professional discussion and posed a number of insightful questions.

The "Golden Lecture" is an international educational online initiative implemented by the Moscow Pedagogical State University with the support of the MPGU Public Council — the designated CIS-wide hub for the training of pedagogical personnel. The initiative is carried out under the auspices of the Eurasian Association of Pedagogical Universities.

The participation of a representative from YKSUG in this international-level project once again highlights the high level of academic expertise among the university’s faculty and reaffirms its commitment to the ongoing exchange of best practices with international colleagues.

ROUND TABLE: THE WARMTH OF OUR HEARTS

On October 15, as part of "Parental Love Week," lecturers of the Department of English Philology Liliya Kavaliova, Yuliya Navahran, and Alena Prakapchuk hosted a round table "The Warmth of Our Hearts", dedicated to notable mothers.

The event brought together both Belarusian and international students from the Faculty of Philology.

Together, the lecturers and students reflected on women who raised extraordinary individuals—women who made great sacrifices for their children while remaining remarkable, strong, and talented figures in their own right. The gathering was warm, sincere, and truly touching.

Lecturers and students from Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno participated in the exhibition at the 5th International IT Academgrad Forum: "Artificial Intelligence in Belarus"

On October 13, 2026, the 5th International IT Academgrad Forum, "Artificial Intelligence in Belarus," opened at the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus in Minsk, marking the Academy's 98th anniversary. The forum brought together approximately 300 specialists from Belarus, Russia, China, Uzbekistan, and Turkey. Participants discussed key trends in the development of artificial intelligence, robotics, and cybersecurity.

An exhibition of innovative developments was held as part of the forum—an event in which our staff members traditionally participate. Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno was represented at this prestigious venue by Tatsiana Pots and Yauheni Varanko, trainee lecturers from the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics. They showcased cutting-edge scientific and educational developments from the Department of System Programming and Computer Security, focusing on artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

The Kupala University stand featured six unique exhibits covering modern approaches to medical diagnostics and the application of artificial intelligence in cybersecurity. Particular interest was generated by the "NeuroScan" and "HepatoScreen" intelligent medical services; utilizing deep learning neural networks, these tools assist physicians in rapidly and accurately diagnosing strokes and liver diseases based on digital MRI and CT scans.

Equally significant was the presentation of a range of educational products based on computer vision, edge computing (Edge AI), and biometrics. Forum attendees had the opportunity to explore innovative educational modules including a computer-vision-based "smart perimeter" for facility security and specialized computing units for "smart laboratories" as well as advanced intelligent systems for biometric access control and human-machine interaction.

The exhibition by Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno proved to be one of the most popular. Tatsiana Pots provided engaging and accessible explanations for each project, demonstrating how complex machine-learning algorithms address real-world, practical challenges. The high caliber of the university’s developments did not go unnoticed: the television channel ONT and the publication times.by conducted exclusive interviews with the university representative to learn more about the potential of these AI technologies from Grodno.

The practical aspects of implementing these technologies also generated significant interest. A queue of curious professionals, representatives from other universities, and potential partners formed at the university’s booth. Participants actively exchanged contact information to discuss future collaboration and joint projects.

Participation in the forum has once again confirmed that Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno serves as a robust center of expertise and a key driver of innovation in the field of artificial intelligence.

Representatives of Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno Participated in an International Conference on Combating Family and Domestic Violence 

The research-to-practice conference took place on October 14 in Tashkent at the Law Enforcement Academy of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Participants discussed legal mechanisms for violence prevention, victim protection, and the implementation of innovative solutions in law enforcement practice. Representatives from Yanka Kupala State University took an active part in the forum.

Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno was represented at the conference by faculty members from the Department of Civil Law and Procedure: Barys Balakhonau, Associate Professor and Aliaksandra Sauchuk, Senior Lecturer.

Barys Balakhonau delivered a presentation titled "Mandatory Referral to a Correctional Program as a Measure of Protection Against Domestic Violence." Aliaksandra Sauchuk presented a paper on "Determining a Child's Temporary Place of Residence as a Measure to Secure a Claim," focusing on procedural safeguards for protecting the rights of minors in family disputes.

Discussing these issues in the context of both domestic and international experience enabled participants to exchange expert practices and outline modern approaches to preventing offenses in this area.

PHOTO FACT: Mother’s Day Event at Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno

 A heartwarming event dedicated to Mother’s Day took place at Kupala University. A special atmosphere filled the Alma mater on this festive day as people  gathered to express sincere gratitude to the women whose unconditional love and support accompany each of us throughout our lives.

Three of the university’s youth organizations – the student trade union, the Student Council, and the BRSM – joined forces to initiate this kind-hearted event. Working together, student activists organized engaging interactive zones and prepared sweet surprises, creating a truly festive mood.

The event served as an important reminder of the simple yet essential words of gratitude. Mothers were thanked for their warmth, wisdom, patience, and belief in us. Amidst the hustle and bustle of student life, moments like these hold special value: they teach us to focus on what truly matters, cherish our loved ones, and generously share warmth with those around us.

The organizers thank everyone who got involved, joined the event, and poured a piece of their heart into this shared effort. May words of love and appreciation for mothers be spoken not only on holidays but every single day.