Dmitry Chernyshenko: The 2026 Abilympics regional championships are starting in Russia.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

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Regional Abilympics professional skills championships for people with disabilities and special needs are beginning in all 89 constituent entities of the Russian Federation. The events are organized by the governments of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation and the regional Abilympics development centers, with the support of the Russian Ministry of Education, the National Abilympics Center of the Institute for the Development of Professional Education, and the presidential platform "Russia – Land of Opportunities."

The competition, which this year is being held under the motto "Every victory begins with a dream," is organized for three categories of participants: schoolchildren, students, and professionals.

"The national Abilympics movement is developing within the framework of the federal project 'Professionalism' of the national project 'Youth and Children.' For 12 years now, it has been helping young men and women gain confidence, find in-demand careers, and realize their potential and develop their talents—one of the national goals set by our President Vladimir Putin. Today marks the launch of regional championships across the country: over 30,000 competitors in all regions of the Russian Federation, including historical regions, will have the opportunity to showcase their talents and professional skills. Competitions will cover 238 competencies in 22 sectors, from industry to the social sphere. I wish every participant success!" said Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko.

For the first time, the regional championship program includes 14 new competencies reflecting modern technological and professional trends. Furthermore, 20 competencies have been given updated names in line with current professional standards.

The list of competencies is being developed jointly with employers, emphasized Education Minister Sergei Kravtsov in his welcome address to participants in the regional Abilympics championships and their mentors.

"The skills you acquire are your ticket to a successful professional life. The employment rate for Abilympics participants exceeds 93%. This is a very high figure. I would like to express special gratitude to the mentors and teachers. Your work and belief in your students are the foundation upon which their success is built. You don't simply impart knowledge; you help overcome barriers and open doors to a world full of opportunities," emphasized Sergey Kravtsov.

The list of competencies includes 70 areas of the "Festival of Opportunities" for participants with severe and multiple developmental disabilities. For the youngest participants, 25 areas of the "Festival of Introduction to Professions" have been identified, allowing schoolchildren to become familiar with various professional fields.

The winners of the regional championships will represent their regions in the qualifying round, which will determine the participants of the 2026 Abilympics National Championship, which will traditionally be held in Moscow.

The Abilympics movement is Russia's largest project supporting people with disabilities and limited health capabilities in the field of professional excellence. The championships promote the development of professional skills, career guidance, and employment opportunities for participants, as well as the creation of a modern, inclusive environment in the education system and labor market.

The Institute for the Development of Professional Education is holding the Abilympics championship as part of the federal project "Professionalism" of the national project "Youth and Children" on behalf of the Russian Ministry of Education.

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