From April 15 to 24, the third and final stage of the national preschool research competition "I Am a Researcher" is taking place in Belarus. The event was organized by the Ministry of Education of Belarus to identify and support the intellectual and creative potential of the youngest citizens and promote innovative teaching practices in preschool education.

This year, 38 preschool students, whose work was highly rated by regional expert committees, are participating in the final stage of the competition. A total of 35 research projects were submitted for the jury's consideration: 32 individual projects and 3 group projects. This growth demonstrates a soaring interest in cognitive research activities among older preschool-age children and the improvement in the quality of methodological support for this area by educators across the country.

Key Events of the Final Stage

* "Young Researchers" Exhibition

A thematic exhibition will be held at the Academy of Education on April 23 and 24, presenting the best works of the winners and awardees of the second (regional) stage of the competition. Visitors will be able to see original children's projects in the fields of natural science, ecology, local history, technical creativity, and social activism.

* "Open Mic" Professional Dialogue Platform

On April 24, a methodological session in the "Open Mic" format will be held for mentor teachers and leaders of children's research projects. Participants will exchange successful practices, discuss current issues in organizing project activities with preschoolers, and present original methods for developing critical thinking, observation skills, and independence in preschool-age children.

* Closing Ceremony and Awards

The competition will conclude with an awards ceremony for the winners and runners-up, which will take place on April 24 at the Academy of Education. Participants will receive diplomas from the Ministry of Education of Belarus, commemorative gifts, and recommendations for the further development of their research initiatives.

The Importance of the Competition for the Education System

The "I Am a Researcher" competition is an important component of state policy in the development of preschool education and support for gifted individuals. It creates conditions for:

- developing the creative and intellectual abilities of preschool children;
- implementing modern educational technologies focused on children's research;
- strengthening cooperation between preschool, general secondary, and higher education institutions;
- enhancing the professional competence of teachers in organizing research activities.

The Ministry of Education of Belarus expresses its gratitude to the teachers, parents, and representatives of regional education departments for their active participation in organizing and conducting the competition. We are convinced that supporting children's initiative and curiosity today is an investment in the country's innovative potential tomorrow.
Follow the competition news on the official website of the Ministry of Education of Belarus and on the social media of the Academy of Education.