Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Peoples'Friendship University of Russia
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
This year, RUDN University will host the final round of the Moscow School Olympiad in Ecology. On February 28 and March 1, more than 1,000 young ecologists in grades 8–11 will compete for the right to be named the best. Our university's Institute of Ecology is co-organizing the competition.
But for one person, these dates hold special significance. Imilia Ivanova, a student majoring in Ecology and Sustainable Development, is preparing for the Olympiad in a new role: organizer and coach. Imilia is proof that the Olympiad movement changes lives. A winner and two-time runner-up of the final round of the All-Russian School Olympiad (VsOSh), an overall winner of the Moscow School of Ecology, and now a runner-up of the "I Am a Professional" student Olympiad, she has risen from participant to mentor.
"Ecology is the science of the unity of the world."
Imilia's path to science began unconventionally. In sixth grade, she dabbled in economics, literature, and biology, but it was ecology that became the subject that defined everything.
"This is a unique opportunity when, at the Olympiad, you're confronted with the most important task—the preservation and development of our shared 'Home.' Ecology is the science of global harmony. Nothing could be more beautiful. Our development, our economy, our politics, and, without exaggeration, our entire life depend on it," says Imilia Ivanova.
It was this philosophical, interdisciplinary understanding of the subject that helped her achieve greatness. But her greatest success, she says, lies not in the awards, but in the fact that ecology became the foundation of her worldview and professional path.
From the school desk to organizing the Olympiad
Having completed her school Olympiad, Imilia realized she wasn't ready to leave this world. Her gratitude to her mentor, Natalya Leonidovna Ponomareva, head coach of the Moscow ecology team, blossomed into an offer of collaboration. Thus, the former Olympiad participant joined the coaching staff, and today she's already involved in organizing the Moscow School.
"The Olympics are more than just an interesting pursuit; they're an integral part of who I am. They taught me how to live: to learn and to make mistakes, to experience this world, to win and to lose. Being an organizer of the International School of Schoolchildren is a great honor and responsibility," says Imilia Ivanova.
According to her, a variety of formats are used in preparation for the Olympiads—lectures, seminars, and discussion forums. The main emphasis is on the interdisciplinary and comprehensive nature of the subject, as participants need to understand both fundamental environmental theory and be able to apply it in practice, which can be challenging but crucial.
"And, of course, the central focus of our work is developing the children's creative potential. This is precisely why participants successfully tackle Olympiad tasks that require an unconventional and original approach, the ability to see the problem as a whole, and always find solutions," says Imilia Ivanova.
Imilia is currently studying at RUDN University in the Ecology and Sustainable Development program and notes that the interdisciplinary nature of her university education allows her to develop a holistic scientific understanding of the world, essential for a true professional. Ahead of the final round, she addresses the current participants.
"I wish you a truly enjoyable Olympiad! Know this: this is an incredible adventure and a path that, once you embark on it, you can find yourself. Never be afraid of bold and creative ideas, unconventional approaches, and innovative approaches—this is where our future lies!" — Imilia Ivanova.
About the Olympiad
The Moscow School Olympiad dates back to the 1930s. Today, it includes over 20 disciplines.
The final stage of the International School of Ecology will be held at RUDN University:
February 28 — for grades 10–11; March 1 — for grades 8–9.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.