MINISTRY OF EDUCATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF BELARUS

Support of gifted kids and talented young people is one of the most important priorities of the state’s policy. Encouraging motivated young people to pursue science, innovation, and academic excellence requires a robust selection system and proper rewards. Education Minister Andrei Ivanets spoke to journalists today about how Belarus works with gifted children, the new horizons opening up for participants in the Olympiad movement, and how the state supports student youth.

— What are the requirements for applicants to receive presidential grants, Grand Prix awards, and special prizes for gifted youth?

— The requirements for applicants to these government support programs are well-founded. These primarily include winners of international competitions and Olympiads. Furthermore, the international competitions themselves are subject to strict criteria: at least 10 participating countries must compete.

A mandatory requirement is passing a multi-stage national selection process. The competition begins at the level of general secondary education institutions, then moves to the regional level, and culminates in a national Olympiad, based on the results of which a national team is formed.

Strict requirements are also imposed on the recipients of special awards. These are typically winners of national competitions who have proven themselves to be the best of the best. Of course, we support both schoolchildren who win subject-specific Olympiads and university students who achieve success in international and national student Olympiads.

— How is continuity established in working with such students, and what are Belarus's results on the international stage?

— We have established a clear continuity between the school and the university, and the National Children's Technology Park plays a crucial role in identifying and training such talent. We can confidently say that the best of the best are truly nominated for grants and awards, and there is no doubt about that.

We see that, both in previous years and today, our schoolchildren's performance at international Olympiads is extremely high. We have set ourselves an ambitious goal: all members of the national team participating in international competitions must return with medals. This is necessary to confirm Belarus's status as an intellectual nation and our education system as one of the strongest and worthiest.

— Does such state support motivate school graduates planning to enroll in institutions of higher learning?

— Absolutely. A corresponding system of benefits has been created today to help talented students enter colleges and universities. Winners and runners-up of a national Olympiad have the opportunity to enter without any entrance examinations, and winners of international Olympiads enjoy even greater benefits. This is a very significant incentive for our youth.

I would like to point out that we are constantly expanding the list of recognized competitions and international Olympiads. This year, for the first time, our schoolchildren will participate in the World Robot Contest, which will be held in the People's Republic of China, as well as in the International Olympiad in Artificial Intelligence. The competition will take place from August 2nd to 6th, and the students are already doing their best to prepare.

— Belarusian students traditionally perform well in technical disciplines. What new formats are emerging in the Olympiad movement?

— This is the fourth year our students have taken part in the international unmanned aerial vehicle tournament. The following aspect is important: it's not just about piloting. It's primarily about designing, programming, and controlling the UAV.

When a team goes through the entire process from developing the designs and building the UAV to programming it and navigating complex courses—it becomes a powerful motivator for all technically gifted young people.

— Is the government currently doing everything necessary to enable young people to achieve best results? What about support for university students?

Along with special awards and Grand Prix prizes, the Presidential Scholarships of Belarus are a crucial support tool. This year, by order of the Head of State, nearly 200 students from our universities were awarded presidential scholarships.

This not only provides additional financial incentives but also a significant image and status boost. Every young person understands that their work and talents have been recognized at the highest level. This is highly valued and provides tremendous motivation for further achievements for the benefit of our country.