Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
The annual history competition "Ignite Knowledge" has concluded at Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, becoming one of the highlights of the freshman orientation program. The project helps students learn about the university's history through engaging activities, game elements, and digital technologies—one of their first experiences with the Polytechnic's long-standing traditions and corporate culture.
This year, the competition was held in an updated format, using a mobile app, which made participation more interactive and engaging. Thanks to the project's victory in the Rosmolodezh grant competition, the SPbPU History Museum team was able to integrate modern technologies into the educational and outreach process.
2025 was a landmark year for the competition. For the first time in three years, 924 applications were submitted—a record for the project's history. Over the course of a week, first-year students completed tasks related to key historical events, famous alumni, and Polytechnic University traditions, and also learned about the activities of student societies and associations.
Tatyana Novitskaya, Deputy Director of the SPbPU History Museum, noted: "The 'Light Up Knowledge' competition is not an exam or a knowledge test, but an opportunity for first-year students to experience the spirit of the university. Through play and research, students discover the traditions of the Polytechnic University and begin to feel part of its great history. We see how this format engages, inspires, and helps foster a sense of belonging to the university community."
In 2025, special attention was paid to the development of student self-government and student associations. The competition assignments focused on the history of the SPbPU Trade Union, which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, as well as the Adapters public institute, the Polytechnic University student groups, and other active communities.
Participants researched archival materials, completed assignments in historical locations on campus, created photo reports, participated in themed quests, and shared their experiences on social media. This approach brought students together and made the process of learning history truly vibrant and contemporary.
The competition concluded with a gala meeting in the Polytechnic Tower, where the results were announced. The 200 most active participants received commemorative gifts. The project combines tradition and technology, preserving historical memory while simultaneously developing new approaches to educational outreach to students.
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