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In Belarus, the STEND-2026 tournament kicked off—a team-based scientific competition for university students, master’s students, and recent graduates. Participants will be tasked with solving complex scientific and technical problems, presenting their own solutions, and defending them through scientific debate.
The tournament is organized by the Ministry of Education and the National Academy of Sciences.
The project aims to foster research skills among young people, encourage the application of fundamental knowledge to practical challenges, and provide experience in scientific discourse. Participants will have the opportunity to demonstrate their teamwork, discuss pressing scientific and technical issues, and gain recognition within the professional community.
The preliminary (remote) stage runs from October 2026 to January 2027. Teams must complete three scientific and technical tasks prepared by an expert council. The assignments are available on the official website of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus. Completed solutions, along with an application, must be submitted by December 19 to the following email addresses: smu@edu.gov.by or smu@presidium.bas-net.by. Please use the subject line: "STEND Preliminary Round Solutions – [Team Name]." Following an expert evaluation, the top 12 teams will be invited to the next stage.
The in-person stage will take place from March to April 2027. It will feature "scientific battles," during which teams will present and defend their solutions, analyze the work of their opponents, and engage in scientific discussions.
Teams must consist of five members (or four, by special arrangement). A team may include students from one or several different universities. An interdisciplinary approach—incorporating students from the natural sciences—is encouraged. At the conclusion of the tournament, three winning teams—taking first, second, and third place—will be determined, along with four individual winners.
STEND-2026 will offer young researchers an opportunity to put their knowledge into practice, develop skills in scientific communication and public speaking, gain experience in teamwork, and make a name for themselves within the professional community.
Detailed information regarding the tasks and the terms of participation can be found on the Ministry’s information resources.