Yanka Kupala
State University of Grodno
IRYNA KITURKA, RECTOR OF YANKA KUPALA STATE UNIVERSITY OF GRODNO, CONGRATULATES BSU ON ITS 105TH ANNIVERSARY
Iryna Kiturka, Rector of Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno, is attending celebratory events marking the 105th anniversary of the founding of the country’s leading higher education institution – Belarusian State University.
The festivities brought together heads of major national higher education institutions, international partners, and representatives from Belarus’s academic and scientific communities.
Our Rector’s visit highlights the strong partnership between YKSUG and BSU. For many years, the two institutions have collaborated on research projects, exchanged expertise in the training of highly qualified professionals, and worked together to develop a unified educational space within the country.
BATTLE FOR THE TITLE: YANKA KUPALA STATE UNIVERSITY OF GRODNO HOSTS THE PRELIMINARY ROUND OF THE "STUDENT OF THE YEAR 2026" COMPETITION
Today, October 30, participants competed in tests of intellect and oratory skills, following the earlier project defense stage. Nine talented, enterprising and ambitious students from YKSUG remain in the running for this prestigious title. The highlight of the competition, the final, will take place on November 4 at 18:00 in the assembly hall at Lenina Str., 32.
The "Student of the Year" competition is designed as a platform to identify, develop, and realize the creative potential of young students. Its key objectives include supporting student initiatives, fostering opportunities for self-actualization in public life and the arts, cultivating leadership qualities, and strengthening the image of youth organizations.
The competition is organized by the Department of Ideological and Educational Work, in collaboration with the university’s primary trade union organization for students and the university branch of the Belarusian Republican Youth Union.
The preliminary round served as a rigorous test for the participants. Having already presented their projects, the contestants today demonstrated their intellectual and public-speaking prowess, showcasing their ability to think critically, construct arguments, and engage an audience. Each of the nine finalists is prepared to give their absolute best to claim victory.
"Student of the Year 2026" is a space where leaders are forged, team spirit is strengthened and exceptional talents are brought to light.
Join us on November 4 at 18:00 in the assembly hall, Lenina Str., 32, to discover who will be named the top student at YKSUG!
PHOTO FACT: YANKA KUPALA STATE UNIVERSITY OF GRODNO HOSTS ONGOING CONFERENCE ON THE CHALLENGES OF MODERN YOUTH POLICY
On October 30, the 3rd International Scientific and Methodological Conference, "Youth Policy and Upbringing in Contemporary Conditions", continues at Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno.
Today’s proceedings are organized into two thematic sections: "Foundations of Worldview in Youth Upbringing" and "Youth as a Subject of Social Interaction: Challenges and Prospects". Participants are discussing the role of student construction brigades in developing students' professional and personal competencies, the adaptation of international students, the organization of the work of academic group mentors, as well as family-based upbringing and youth safety.
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
EXPERIENCE IN DETAIL: KUPALA UNIVERSITY REPRESENTATIVES PAY FAMILIARIZATION VISIT TO CONFUCIUS INSTITUTE AT BREST STATE A. PUSHKIN UNIVERSITY
On 29 October, a delegation from Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno paid a familiarization visit to the Confucius Institute at Brest State A. Pushkin University.
The delegation included Liavontsi Paulau, Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs, Viachaslau Ramanenka, Vice-Rector, Nastassia Dudzko, Head of the Department of English Philology, Alesya Belko, Deputy Head of the Education Internationalization Centre, Volha Minava, Head of the International Cooperation Department, Natalia Litskevich Lead Accountant, and Lyudmila Nichipor, Lead Legal Counsel.
The main purpose of the trip was to study the specifics of the organization, structure, and key operational features of the Confucius Institute. During the meetings, the Brest colleagues shared in detail their successful experience in implementing international educational projects, promoting the Chinese language and culture, and effectively managing the center's internal processes.
This visit is of significant strategic importance for Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno. Recall that in June 2026, a large-scale initiative was presented under which Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno, in cooperation with Xinjiang Normal University, is actively working to establish its own full-fledged Confucius Institute. Studying the experience of their Brest colleagues will allow our staff to apply the best domestic practices when deploying the new center in Grodno.
The working visit served as an excellent platform for exchanging practical experience, strengthening inter-university ties, and discussing prospects for further cooperation in the academic, educational, and cultural spheres.
A HALLMARK OF EDUCATIONAL QUALITY: WORLD-CLASS EXPERT IN MUSICOLOGY AND ART HISTORY GALIMA LUKINA LECTURES AT YKSUG
A unique three-day educational intensive has concluded at the Department of Musical Art at Kupala University. As part of the program "Visiting Professor", Galima Lukina, a Doctor of Art History and professor, delivered a series of lectures to students and faculty from October 20 to 22.
Galima Lukina is a highly respected scholar and an expert of international standing. She serves as Deputy Director for Research at the State Institute for Art Studies and heads the Department of Music Theory and History at the Russian State Specialized Academy of Arts. She holds the titles of Honorary Professor at the Chinese National Academy of Arts and Honorary Member of the Russian Academy of Arts and is a member of the Union of Composers of Russia.
The lectures were attended by undergraduate and graduate students from the Department of Musical Art at Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno. During the sessions, Professor Lukina introduced the students, future professionals in the field, to innovative methods for teaching music theory, framed within the study of the history of Russian music. She placed particular emphasis on complex and pressing issues regarding the methodology of musical analysis.
The visit of a scholar of such stature has provided students and faculty at YKSUG with new opportunities to immerse themselves deeply in their profession, explore cutting-edge international practices, and broaden their academic and research horizons.
LEADING THE NATION'S LEGAL SCIENCE: PROFESSOR YHAR MARTYNENKA RECEIVES A LETTER OF APPRECIATION FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF THE HIGHER ATTESTATION COMMISSION
On October 28, Professor Yhar Martynenko, Doctor of Law and Head of the Department of Civil Law and Procedure at Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno, participated in a national seminar-meeting focused on the training of scientific and academic personnel in the field of legal studies.
The event was hosted by the Higher Attestation Commission of the Republic of Belarus. Attendees included the chairpersons and academic secretaries of dissertation defense councils from educational and scientific institutions across the country.
As the Chairman of the relevant expert council of the Higher Attestation Commission, Yhar Martynenko delivered a keynote presentation at the seminar. He provided a detailed analysis of the trends regarding the defense, approval, and rejection of legal dissertations over the past decade. Furthermore, he presented a set of recommendations—developed by the expert council—aimed at enhancing the quality of dissertation research, based on a comprehensive review of common errors made by doctoral candidates.
A highlight of the event was the recognition of the representative from Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno. Professor Yhar Martynenko was presented with a Letter of Appreciation from the Chairman of the Higher Attestation Commission of the Republic of Belarus. This honor acknowledges his long-standing and productive contributions to the certification of highly qualified scientific personnel, in his capacity as both the chairman of the specialized expert council and a member of the Higher Attestation Commission Presidium.
We congratulate Yhar Martynenko on this well-deserved national-level recognition and wish him continued success in the advancement of legal scholarship!
SAFETY AND ADAPTATION: MEETINGS HELD WITH INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS ON CAMPUS
Informational and educational meetings for international students took place in the dormitories of the Kupala University campus. These events were organized by the Department for Ideological and Educational Work to help first-year students adapt more quickly to their new environment and to prevent potential legal violations.
The primary guest at these meetings was Vasiliy Sianko, Vice-Rector for Ideological and Educational Affairs. Students had the opportunity to ask the Vice-Rector questions about a wide range of topics – from the organization of the academic process to addressing everyday living issues within the dormitories.
During the open dialogue, participants were reminded of key Belarusian legal requirements, including migration regulations. The university’s internal code of conduct and the rules for living in the dormitories were also discussed in detail. Particular attention was paid to managing daily living concerns and preventing legal infractions. The discussion specifically addressed the prohibition of fare evasion, smoking, and the consumption of alcoholic or low-alcohol beverages in public spaces, as well as the importance of strictly adhering to traffic laws.
At the conclusion of the meetings, each international student received a practical gift: an informational leaflet outlining the legal consequences of violating the laws of the Republic of Belarus, provided in their native language.
A BRIDGE OF FRIENDSHIP AND SCIENCE: PROFESSOR FROM TURKMENISTAN VISITS YANKA KUPALA STATE UNIVERSITY OF GRODNO
From October 18 to 24, as part of the program "Visiting Professor", the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics at Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno hosted Bekiyeva Maral Batyrovna, Candidate of Physical and Mathematical Sciences and Head of the Department of Applied Mathematics and Informatics at the Oguz Han Engineering and Technology University of Turkmenistan.
During her visit, Maral Bekiyeva conducted lectures and practical sessions for students majoring in Mathematics, as well as seminars and consultations for students in the Software Engineering and Applied Mathematics programs. The sessions were designed to demonstrate the connection between rigorous mathematical theory and real-world challenges, ranging from engineering calculations to environmental modeling. Maral Batyrovna brought a wealth of pedagogical and scientific experience to the university; she also shared her research interests, specifically the application of artificial intelligence in modeling the hydro-geo-ecological state of groundwater, a topic of particular significance for arid regions. Her classes and seminars drew keen interest, especially among the Turkmen students currently studying at the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics.
In addition to her extensive academic activities, Maral Batyrovna held meetings with Liavontsi Paulau, Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs, Natalia Bashun, Vice-Rector for Research, Alena Belakoz, Head of the Internationalization Education Centre and the leadership and faculty members of the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics. The participants in the discussions addressed the next steps for establishing academic exchanges, proposed areas for internships for faculty members and students from the Oguz Han Engineering and Technology University of Turkmenistan, and explored opportunities for providing academic supervision to doctoral candidates.
There was also time for a cultural program. Maral Batyrovna enjoyed attending the qualifying rounds of the "Alma Mater" competition, noting the high level of the project’s organization and the creative talents of our students. The guest was also deeply impressed by her visit to the Museum of the History of Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno, as well as a walking tour of historic Grodno, accompanied by a warm group of Turkmen students from the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics.
It is worth noting that this marks the first visit by a representative from the academic community of Turkmenistan to Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno since the launch of the "Visiting Professor" program.
More...
REPRESENTATIVES OF KUPALA UNIVERSITY ARE INVITED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE QUALIFYING ROUNDS FOR THE "SLAVIANSKI BAZAAR IN VITEBSK" FESTIVAL
On December 10, 2026, Grodno State College of Arts (located at 23 BLK St., Grodno) will host the first (regional) stage of the qualifying rounds for the international competitions held as part of the XXXVI International Festival of Arts "Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk".
The selection process is conducted in accordance with Resolution No. 33 of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Belarus, dated March 31, 2026, "On the International Festival of Arts 'Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk'." The festival is organized by the Ministry of Culture, the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee, and the state institution "Culture Center 'Vitebsk'."
The festival features two competitions: the International Pop Song Performers Contest "Vitebsk" and the International Children's Music Contest "Vitebsk." The purpose of the qualifying rounds is to identify talented young pop vocalists for further preparation and representation of the Republic of Belarus in these contests.
Citizens of the Republic of Belarus who have experience performing in concerts and have demonstrated success in international or national music competitions and festivals are invited to participate:
– for the pop song performers contest: individuals aged 18 to 31 inclusive;
– for the children's music contest: individuals aged 8 to 14 inclusive (age is determined as of the final day of the festival).
The qualifying rounds consist of three stages. The first stage involves regional selections held across the country's regions and the city of Minsk (taking place between November 1 and December 15 of the year preceding the festival). Auditions are conducted live, accompanied by a backing track that includes music and backing vocals (which must not duplicate the lead vocal). Based on the decisions of the regional jury, up to 5 participants from each region—as well as from the city of Minsk—are selected for each of the competitions.
The second stage consists of qualifying auditions for those who passed the first stage, evaluated by expert panels (to be held by January 25 of the festival year). Additionally, individuals nominated by state cultural organizations or educational institutions in the field of culture (under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Culture) may participate in the second stage, even if they did not take part in the first. Ten participants are selected for each competition.
The third stage involves qualifying auditions for the participants selected in the second stage, judged by a professional jury (to be held by March 25 of the festival year). From this stage, one participant is chosen for the pop song performers' competition, and one for the children's music competition.
We invite all interested members of YKSUG community to take part in the regional qualifying round and compete for the opportunity to represent the Republic of Belarus at the XXXVI International Festival of Arts "Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk." Detailed information can be found in the official decree issued by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Belarus. Don’t miss your chance to make your mark on the big stage!
CONSTITUTIONAL VALUES AS A LEGAL COMPASS: DEPUTY CHAIRWOMAN OF THE CONSTITUTIONAL COURT OF THE REPUBLIC OF BELARUS NATALIA KARPOVICH MEETS WITH STUDENTS OF YANKA KUPALA STATE UNIVERSITY OF GRODNO
On October 27, Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno hosted a meeting with Natalia Karpovich, Deputy Chairwoman of the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Belarus, Doctor of Law, Professor and Honored Lawyer of the Republic of Belarus.
Future legal professionals from the university had the opportunity to receive direct answers from a distinguished expert regarding the scope of the Constitutional Court’s activities, its operations in the context of rapid digital development and its interaction with the Belarusian People’s Congress.
Aleksandr Yarmolik, Chair of the Court of the Leninsky District of Grodno, also attended the event as an honored guest.
Liavontsi Paulau, Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs at YKSUG, delivered welcoming remarks, highlighting the significance of the event:
“The Constitutional Court of the Republic of Belarus is the body that embodies the rule of law and the protection of our state’s constitutional values. This meeting offers a unique opportunity for our students, our future lawyers, to engage with the living practice of constitutional justice and learn firsthand how decisions that shape the legal life of our nation are reached.”
The centerpiece of the meeting was a presentation by Natalia Karpovich titled “Constitutional Values as a Legal Compass for Modern Society”. At the beginning of her address, she recounted the history of the Basic Law of the Republic of Belarus, adopted on March 15, 1994, which established the foundations of the sovereign state. The speaker also focused on the amendments made to the Constitution in 2022, noting that they were prompted by new challenges facing the Republic of Belarus and were aimed at safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and independence. Natalya Karpovich emphasized that strict adherence to the Constitution is one of the most critical factors for the sustainable, sovereign development of the Republic of Belarus.
A significant portion of her address was dedicated to the work of the Constitutional Court, its establishment, and its mission. The speaker explained that the Court is tasked with overseeing the constitutionality of legal acts within the state, a role aimed at protecting the constitutional order, safeguarding the guaranteed rights and freedoms of citizens, and ensuring the supremacy and direct application of the Basic Law throughout the country. To illustrate the Court’s functions, Natalya Karpovich cited real-world issues that citizens have brought before the Constitutional Court.
The speaker also addressed the topical issue of the relationship between digital development and the law, discussing how the Constitutional Court operates within the context of today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Furthermore, Natalya Karpovich touched upon the interaction between the Constitutional Court and the Belarusian People’s Congress. She noted that the Belarusian People’s Congress is entrusted with vital constitutional functions, including the election of the Chair, Deputy Chair, and judges of both the Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court.
In her concluding remarks, the speaker stressed that the Constitution serves as the legal foundation for the unity of the people and the viability of Belarus. She also shared a significant quote from the President of the Republic of Belarus, Aleksandr Lukashenko:
"The unprecedented trust that the citizens of Belarus have placed in the political system has made it possible to build a stable and independent state. Moreover, the fundamental values enshrined in the Basic Law serve as reliable guideposts, helping us overcome modern-day challenges and look toward the future with confidence."
The meeting continued in the format of an open dialogue. Students from our universities showed great engagement, asking questions about changes to the Fundamental Law and how the Constitutional Court strikes a delicate balance between protecting human rights and safeguarding the state’s national interests.
For these aspiring lawyers, the event served as a true masterclass in professional practice, an experience that no textbook or academic manual could ever replace.
YANKA KUPALA STATE UNIVERSITY OF GRODNO ON THE INTERNATIONAL STAGE: REPRESENTATIVES OF YKSUG PARTICIPATE IN THE BELARUS-CHINA YOUTH FORUM
On October 23, the 2nd Belarus-China Forum of Young Scientists "Experience in Implementing Youth Cooperation in Science between Belarus and China", was held at the Belarusian National Technical University. Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno was represented at the event by Artsiom Syty, an electronics engineer in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics, and Wang Xuemin, a postgraduate student from the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics.
The event was attended by Aleksandr Bakhanovich, First Deputy Minister of Education of the Republic of Belarus, Song Yanping, Minister-Counselor of the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Belarus, Yang Jianyu, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Automation at Northeastern University (PRC), Ding Jibo, Head of the Investor Attraction and Service Department at SINOMACHBEL LLC, as well as young scientists from both nations.
The forum program extended beyond formal presentations. Following the plenary session, the young researchers continued their work in two specialized sessions: "Experience in Working with Talented Youth and Prospects for Cooperation Among Young Scientists from Belarus and China" and "Innovative Developments by Young Scientists: From Concept to Implementation."
This international forum once again reaffirmed its status as an effective instrument for strengthening bilateral partnerships, elevating youth policy to a new level, and establishing a robust platform for intercultural and scientific exchange between the Republic of Belarus and the People's Republic of China.
NEW HORIZONS FOR COOPERATION: YKSUG STRENGTHENS SCIENTIFIC TIES WITH CHINA!
On October 22, faculty members from the Department of Biology and Ecology at Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno held a working meeting with colleagues from Qilu Normal University (PRC).
Representing our university were Tatsiana Ilich, Head of the Department of Biochemistry, Aliaksandra Ryzhaya, Associate Professor in the Department of Systems Biology, and Palina Khramava, a lecturer in the Department of Biochemistry.
During the meeting, both sides presented their respective institutions' proposals, identified shared research directions at the intersection of biology and chemistry, and outlined the initial steps for implementing joint scientific projects. Particular attention was given to preparing collaborative grant applications for the "BRFFI–NSFC 2028" program, a joint initiative between the Belarusian Republican Foundation for Fundamental Research (BRFFR) and the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC).
Moving forward and expanding the boundaries of international science! We wish our researchers every success in carrying out their plans!
 |
 |
 |
Higher education in the Republic of Belarus
