A festival for college and technical school students was held at the Polytechnic University.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Based on the 2025 admissions campaign, more than 800 college and technical school graduates chose the Polytechnic University to continue their education. This result was made possible by the university's systematic collaboration with secondary vocational education institutions.

SPbPU's Directorate of Pre-University Education and Talent Attraction actively engages prospective students throughout the academic year. The highlight of this effort was the College Fest, which brought together talented and motivated students from various educational institutions.

At the festival opening, Irina Timoshenkova, Deputy Director for Educational Activities at the Institute of Biomedical Systems and Biotechnology, and Marina Petrochenko, Director of the Civil Engineering Institute, welcomed participants. Varvara Sotova, Director of the Student Recruitment Center and Deputy Secretary of the Admissions Committee at SPbPU, spoke about the specifics and pathways for admission to the Polytechnic University for applicants with a secondary vocational education diploma.

The main challenge and most exciting part of the festival was the three-day project work. Participants immersed themselves in solving practical problems prepared by university faculty.

The Civil Engineering Institute challenged students to create a video game concept, including a detailed game scenario, a detailed description of the game world, gameplay mechanics, and a visual concept for the game space.

The Institute of Industrial Management, Economics, and Trade tasked teams with developing a business plan for establishing a camp in the Leningrad Region. This included a market analysis, logo creation, service descriptions, a marketing strategy, a financial plan, identifying opportunities for government support, and assessing risks and development prospects.

During the assignment, organized by the Institute of Biomedical Systems and Biotechnology, the participants were tasked with developing a concept for a food service establishment specializing in Arctic cuisine. The project included creating a menu based on local northern produce, as well as a layout designating functional zones and flows that complied with food safety and occupational health and safety standards. The work was based on real-world data—the floor plan and its location—ensuring the assignment's high practical relevance.

The festival gave students the opportunity to go beyond the curriculum and try their hand at being video game developers, business analysts, and food service designers. Working on real-world problems allowed them not only to apply their professional knowledge but also to master new tools needed in the industry. Furthermore, College Fest brought together students from various educational institutions: they exchanged contacts, discussed ideas, and, once at the university, were able to get a feel for student life at Polytechnic University and the labs and spaces awaiting them upon admission.

Following the project defense, the jury selected the winners. They received diplomas and valuable prizes. Furthermore, winning the College Fest entitles applicants to receive additional points toward their Unified State Exam (USE) or entrance exams when applying to the Polytechnic University.

The festival's winners included students from the Institute of Secondary Vocational Education at SPbPU, the Academy of Engineering Technologies and Management, the College of Information and Creative Technologies, and the College of Business and Technology at St. Petersburg State University of Economics.

For some, participating in the festival was an opportunity to test their skills before applying, while for others, it was a chance to find like-minded individuals and mentors. Regardless of their results, each participant took home the experience of working with a team on a real project and a glimpse into the modern laboratories of one of the country's leading technical universities.

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.

Scientists from Novosibirsk State University and Volgograd State Technical University have patented a new polymer material for the oil and gas industry.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Novosibirsk State University –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Researchers from NSU and a team of scientists from Volgograd State Technical University (VolSTU), led by Doctor of Technical Sciences and Professor Viktor Kablov, have developed a water-swelling elastomer composition for the manufacture of sealing elements for packer equipment as part of the Competence Center's program "Technologies for Modeling and Developing New Functional Materials with Predetermined Properties" (CNFM) at Novosibirsk State University, which is being implemented with financial support from the NTI Foundation.

Packer equipment is a downhole device (seal) that, when installed, seals the annular space between the casing (or openhole wall) and the wellbore assembly, separating intervals—wellbore sections by depth—that are considered separate wellbore operating zones. This prevents interlayer crossflows, isolates individual inflow and injection zones, and ensures wellbore operation according to a specified pattern, withstanding pressure fluctuations and exposure to aggressive environments.

"Ordinary rubber doesn't swell in water, but we were faced with the challenge of creating packer rubbers that could be effectively used as a seal in oil and gas wells under high pressure. The presence of salt in the drilling fluid complicated the creation of such a material. Our development involves introducing swelling polymers into the material, which expand very well when exposed to liquid, but don't readily integrate with rubber. We needed to find modifying additives to overcome this incompatibility," explained Viktor Kablov.

The water-swelling elastomer composition is based on nitrile butadiene rubber and includes sulfur as a vulcanizing agent, Altax as a mercaptan vulcanization accelerator, and zinc oxide and stearin as vulcanization activators. Carbon black is used as a filler, along with sodium carboxymethyl cellulose as a water-swelling agent and a polymer modifying material that improves component compatibility.

"The key part of our development was selecting a durable base. The matrix was based on rubber, into which we introduced particles of water-swelling polymers capable of absorbing water or aqueous solutions. The particles expand in volume, increasing the volume and contact pressure of the sealing element, which is critical for sealing. To increase the speed and uniformity of penetration of the aqueous phase into the material, fibers are added to the composition, forming capillary channels for mass transfer," explained Viktor Kablov.

When selecting components and determining their proportions, the scientists used several neural networks. One of them, Deep Seek, generated an optimal prediction for the composition of the material with the specified properties and a number of useful recommendations for improving its properties. Next, they applied a program for modeling the behavior of composite materials, previously developed as part of the project "Computer-aided materials science of multicomponent nanostructured elastomeric materials with specified properties for extreme operating conditions."

"This program—a digital assistant for elastomer developers—is part of the Center of Excellence's program, 'Technologies for Modeling and Developing New Functional Materials with Predetermined Properties,' implemented at Novosibirsk State University and supported by the NTI Foundation. Together with the Center of Excellence, we have created a distributed research and technology center equipped not only with a wide range of testing equipment available at NSU, Volgograd State Technical University, and its branch, the Volga Polytechnic Institute, but also with technological equipment enabling the production of pilot batches of materials and products. To handle complex software, we have created a powerful computing cluster that enables the use of software products with artificial intelligence modules, including remote collaboration with our colleagues in other cities," explained Viktor Kablov.

The new polymer material has successfully passed laboratory testing in various operating environments simulating drilling fluids and on model seals. Our industrial partner, Intov-Elast LLC, one of the leading manufacturers of packer devices in Russia, has expressed interest in the development. Currently, rig testing of packer devices using the rubbers developed by the scientists is underway at the partner's and its customers' testing facilities.

Material prepared by: Elena Panfilo, NSU press service

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.

Yuri Gagarin: The Man Who Conquered Space

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Official website of the State –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

On March 9, we celebrate the birthday of Yuri Gagarin, the first person in the world to fly into space.

Childhood and the Occupation

The future conqueror of space was born in 1934 to a simple working-class family. In 1941, the village of Klushino in the Smolensk region, where the Gagarin family lived, fell under German occupation. The Germans deported Yuri's older brother and sister, aged 17 and 15 respectively, to Germany, but they escaped en route and joined the Soviet troops. The village was liberated in 1943.

Excellent student

In 1951, Yuri graduated with honors from Lyubertsy Vocational School No. 10, specializing in molding and foundry work, and completed the seventh grade of an evening school for working youth. In 1955, he also completed his studies with honors at the Saratov Industrial Technical School and the basic training course at the local flying club, where he accumulated 43 flight hours over two years. Upon joining the army, Gagarin was sent to the 1st Chkalov Military Aviation School named after K. E. Voroshilov, from which he again graduated with honors, qualifying as a fighter pilot.

The path to space

From 1957 to 1959, Yuri Gagarin served in the 169th Fighter Aviation Regiment near Murmansk. When he learned of the call for volunteers for the upcoming space flight, he immediately submitted a request expressing his desire to try his hand at this unprecedented new endeavor. After several medical examinations, he was accepted into the group of cosmonaut candidates. Six brave souls were ready to embark on the maiden flight, and the decision on who would be the first to leave Earth's atmosphere was made just a few days before the launch.

Legendary flight

On April 12 at 9:07 AM, the Vostok spacecraft launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome, and its pilot, Yuri Gagarin, said the world-famous "Let's go!" 108 minutes of flight: not much for a human, but a new step in the development of humanity.

Returning to Earth, the cosmonaut reported: “I completed the task, landed in the designated area, I feel good, there are no bruises or injuries.”

The cosmonaut's worldwide fame

Yuri Gagarin received a triumphant welcome in Moscow. Thousands gathered in Red Square to see their hero. Words of gratitude and admiration poured in from all sides. Gagarin became not just a cosmonaut but a national symbol, embodying the achievements of Soviet science and technology. His smile and simplicity captivated the hearts of millions, and he quickly became a national favorite.

However, the first cosmonaut's fame wasn't limited to his country's borders. Soon after his historic flight, he embarked on a grand tour of thirty countries, where he was greeted like a true star. In each country, Yuri Gagarin became the center of attention, and his visits caused a real sensation. People flocked to see the cosmonaut who had become the first in history to conquer the vast expanses of space. He was greeted with flowers, gifts, and applause, and some countries even held parades in his honor.

One of the most memorable encounters was a lunch with Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain. Yuri Gagarin was invited to Buckingham Palace, where he was awaited not only by the royal family but also by a multitude of admirers. According to witnesses, at the end of the event, Elizabeth II herself invited Yuri Gagarin to take a commemorative photo with him, breaking one of the most important rules of etiquette: the monarch being prohibited from being photographed with ordinary people.

This meeting symbolized not only Gagarin's international recognition, but also the importance of space exploration as a common cause for all humanity.

Final chapter

Returning to the country after a world tour, Yuri Gagarin returned to active work and training for a new flight that was not destined to come true.

In 1968, the cosmonaut with the sunny smile died during a training flight.

Yuri Gagarin didn't just change history and become the face of Soviet cosmonautics; he significantly influenced everyone's lives, demonstrating by his example that anything is possible if you pursue your goals and work on yourself, you can achieve the most incredible heights.

GUU and Space

Today, the State University of Management has established a Center for Space Research, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, and Radioelectronic Technologies. One of its areas of focus is integrating the State University of Management into the "Personnel for Space" program. Our young scientists have won the All-Russian Space Dictation.

Subscribe to the "Our GUU" Telegram channel. Publication date: March 9, 2026.

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.

Happy International Women's Day!

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Official website of the State –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

This year, spring, like a true woman, has decided to linger a little longer to prolong the joy of anticipation. However, this doesn't delay the most beautiful and tender holiday – International Women's Day. Perhaps the numerous congratulations and warm wishes to beautiful women will melt not only hearts but also the snow outside, ushering in warmer days.

The State University of Management is proud of all its female students, faculty, staff, and graduates, who develop their talents year-round, advance their knowledge, serve their country, and enrich the world with their presence.

Just recently, we celebrated our female scientists, and today we extend words of gratitude to absolutely every member of the fair sex. May your lives always be filled with flowers, smiles, and good cheer, as well as worthy grades, accomplished achievements, and, of course, love.

Happy holiday, our charming and attractive ones!

Subscribe to the "Our GUU" Telegram channel. Publication date: March 8, 2026.

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.

Courage and Service: Women of the State University of Management during the War

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Official website of the State –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

During the Great Patriotic War, women fought, waited, believed, saved, treated, taught—and contributed to Victory alongside men. Their heroism manifested itself in different ways: some at the front, others in hospitals, laboratories, and classrooms, but all of them brought Victory closer with courage and selflessness.

Among them are those whose destinies are linked to our university. They studied here, worked here, dreamed of science, of a future—and when the time came, they made their choice, standing up to defend their homeland.

For March 8th, we're highlighting the women of Moscow Institute of Economics and Management (now State University of Management) who fought in the Great Patriotic War. We're celebrating those whose names are worthy of remembrance, respect, and pride.

Their faces are faces of courage, strength and endless dignity.

#ScientificRegiment #ScientificRegiment2026

Subscribe to the "Our GUU" Telegram channel. Publication date: March 8, 2026.

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.

The Rector of SPbGASU congratulates everyone on International Women's Day.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Dear employees, students and postgraduate students of SPbGASU!

I congratulate you on the most wonderful spring holiday – International Women's Day!

This day, March 8, embodies kindness, the triumph of love, dreams and beauty; it represents spring and brings new hopes, and is a symbol of the eternal continuation of life.

You not only create warmth and comfort in families, raise children, and warm your family and friends with your love, but you also actively demonstrate your talents in your professional endeavors. We appreciate and are proud of the achievements of each of you!

May this spring day bring you many reasons to rejoice, may your dreams come true, and may your loved ones be with you!

Wishing you sunny mood, love, prosperity, and smiles! Be healthy and happy!

Rector of SPbGASUE. I. Rybnov

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.

The 10th Anniversary Scientific and Practical Conference of Transport Engineers was held at St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

On March 5–6, the 10th Anniversary Scientific and Practical Conference of Transport Engineers was held at the Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering.

The conference traditionally serves as a platform for professional dialogue among specialists in the fields of transport planning, traffic management, transport modeling, and improving urban mobility safety. The event brought together transport engineers, researchers, specialists from design and consulting companies, government officials involved in transport infrastructure development, as well as teachers and students from specialized educational programs. Sultan Zhankaziev, President of the Association of Transport Engineers and Professor at the Moscow Automobile and Road State Technical University, moderated the anniversary conference.

The conference began with a plenary session.

Evgeny Korolev, Vice-Rector for Research at SPbGASU, addressed the participants with a welcoming speech. He noted that over the years, the conference has become an important platform for discussing current issues in transport system development and exchanging experiences among industry specialists. "Today, issues of transport planning, sustainable mobility, and road safety are particularly important for the development of modern cities. Conferences like these allow us to unite the efforts of the scientific community, practitioners, and government agencies to develop effective solutions," he emphasized.

During the plenary session, participants discussed a wide range of issues related to the development of urban transportation systems, the formation of modern transportation policy, and the implementation of new technological solutions. Key topics included traffic management, the development of intelligent transportation systems, transport modeling, improving traffic management, enhancing road safety, and the development of new forms of urban mobility.

In addition, those gathered discussed the integration of personal mobility devices into urban transport infrastructure, improving the efficiency of road network use, and the introduction of digital tools in transport system management.

State Duma Deputy and member of the Committee on Transport and Transport Infrastructure Development Sergei Eremin participated in the plenary session. In his speech, he noted the importance of a comprehensive approach to transport infrastructure development and emphasized the significance of collaboration between science, the professional community, and government agencies: "Modern transport systems require scientifically sound solutions. It is the professional community of transport engineers that shapes the approaches that are then applied in urban development."

The conference included thematic sessions dedicated to key development areas in the transport industry. Participants presented research findings and practical case studies in the fields of transport modeling, mobility management, transport infrastructure design, traffic management, and road safety.

Particular attention was paid to modern methods of analyzing traffic flows, the use of digital technologies in the management of transport systems, and issues of improving the efficiency of the street and road network of large cities.

The conference also discussed the training of specialists in transportation engineering. Representatives from universities and professional organizations noted the need to develop educational programs focused on modern challenges in transportation planning and urban mobility management.

The conference of transportation engineers at St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering (SPbGASU) reaffirmed the professional community's strong interest in the development of transportation systems and urban infrastructure. Participants emphasized the importance of regularly holding such events, which allow for the combination of scientific research and practical experience to address pressing transportation development challenges in Russian cities.

"This event is a unique opportunity to discuss the current state and development prospects of the road transport industry, share our innovative projects and research findings, and, most importantly, demonstrate to those just starting out in their careers—undergraduate and graduate students—that our field has potential, that it forms the foundation for any city-forming or industrial project, and that it contributes to improving the quality of life for everyone. We are proud that this anniversary conference was held at our university," noted Andrey Zazykin, Dean of the Automobile and Road Engineering Faculty at SPbGASU.

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.

National Security: All-Russian Conference at the Polytechnic University

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

The All-Russian scientific and practical conference "Ensuring the national interests of the Russian Federation in light of new threats to the modern world" was held at the St. Petersburg Polytechnic University Institute of Civil Engineering.

The event was organized by the Higher School of Technosphere Safety of the Institute of Strategic Studies (ISI) jointly with the Order of Zhukov Military Academy of the National Guard Troops of the Russian Federation.

Marina Petrochenko, Director of the Institute of Strategic Studies, opened the conference. At the plenary session, participants presented thematic reports on ensuring national security in the face of modern hybrid threats. They discussed issues of interstate cooperation in countering terrorism and extremism, cybercrime, and improving the protection systems of technosphere facilities. Particular attention was paid to issues of "human reliability" as a key element of the national security system, as well as to summarizing practical experience in countering new challenges.

Following the conference, priority areas for further scientific research and the development of joint educational and scientific projects were identified. The event contributed to strengthening interuniversity cooperation, expanding expert interaction, and enhancing the scientific potential of the Civil Engineering Institute.

The conference confirms the high level of scientific interaction and the relevance of the chosen topic. In the face of new challenges, consolidating the scientific community and developing applied research in the field of national security is particularly important, noted Andrey Andreev, Director of the Higher School of Technosphere Security.

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.

Postgraduate student Sahabi Zayyanu Yabo: "Studying at the Polytechnic is like building a bridge."

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Sahabi Zayanu Yabo from Sokoto State, Nigeria, is a student at the Institute of Physics and Mechanics of the Polytechnic.

— Yabo, why did you choose Russia and the Polytechnic University for your studies?

I chose Russia because of its high-quality education system and world-renowned professors. The Polytechnic University attracted me because of its strong reputation in the technical sciences. I can say that the curriculum exceeded all my expectations: it's challenging, but very interesting and provides a wealth of practical knowledge.

— If you could give yourself advice at the beginning of your studies, what would you say?

"I would advise myself to understand the material more deeply, rather than simply memorizing it. Ask questions from the very beginning, manage your time wisely, and don't be afraid of mistakes—that's where true knowledge comes from."

— They say student life changes a person a lot. What's one useful habit you've picked up here?

"The most useful habit I've acquired here is time management. Learning to plan my studies, prioritize, and find a balance between studying and rest has helped me become more focused and reduce my workload."

— What helps you cope with such a busy schedule?

"The university's teaching aids—lab equipment and materials—are a big help to me. Combined with time management, this makes studying much more effective."

— Funny stories often happen when learning a language and adapting. Have you ever had one?

"At the beginning of my studies, I tried to say the word 'teacher,' but I stressed the wrong syllable. It turned out to be a completely different word!" The teacher smiled and gently corrected me. We laughed, and from then on, I remembered exactly how to say it correctly.

— What would you compare studying at the Polytechnic to?

— Studying here is like building a bridge: step by step, with a solid foundation, and each course and semester is another step towards the future.

— What impression do you have of the university teachers?

— The Polytechnic University's faculty are not only experts in their fields, but also empathetic mentors who are genuinely interested in their students' success.

— Support is very important when you're far from home. Have you managed to find friends in Russia?

— Yes, of course. I made wonderful friends here—and over time, they became more than just friends to me; now they're like family.

— What struck you most about Russia that you don’t have in your homeland?

"I was particularly struck by two things: the distinct seasons—especially the snowy winters, which we don't have in Sokoto—and the deep respect for academic traditions. For example, the ceremonial events and the close interaction between students and faculty. It's truly special."

— Share your plans for the future. What do you plan to do?

After completing my PhD, I plan to work in both universities and industry—here in Russia and in Nigeria. I want to teach and mentor students in aerospace technology, as well as participate in research and development in the aerospace industry.

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.

Road Construction and Reconstruction: New Continuing Professional Education Programs at the Polytechnic University

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

The Center for Continuing Professional Programs at the Civil Engineering Institute has launched two new continuing education programs for specialists in the field of road construction and operation: "Recycling Technology for Application in Road Construction and Reconstruction" and "Roads."

For the Institute of Civil Engineering, these programs are particularly important due to the cooperation agreement signed between the Russian Ministry of Transport and SPbPU on October 10, 2025, in Moscow. Thanks to this partnership, the Institute of Civil Engineering opened a Research and Educational Center for Road Pavement Modeling, headed by Professors Albert Bashkarev and Yuri Lazarev.

The "Recycling Technology for Application in Road Construction and Reconstruction" program was developed for specialists from Rusal Holding companies. The course covers modern recycling technologies used in road construction, reconstruction, and repair. It also covers legal and technical regulations in the road industry, the organization of construction and repair work, as well as the causes of road pavement deterioration and ways to improve their durability.

Students study the classification and types of recycling technologies, the specifics of cold recycling, the criteria for selecting a technology and selecting a mixture composition, and the limitations of using these technologies.

The program places special emphasis on the design of highways using recycling technology. It covers engineering surveys, calculations and design of road pavement structures, and the specifics of project implementation in confined spaces. The course also covers construction and installation technologies, the machinery and equipment used, logistics, quality control, technical supervision, and recycling process planning.

The final stage of training involves studying the feasibility study of recycling technologies, calculating estimates and work volumes, and analyzing the advantages of cold recycling technology and the practical implementation thereof.

The "Motor Roads" program is aimed at developing and enhancing the professional competencies of specialists in the design, construction, repair, and maintenance of various types of roads. The training focuses on developing a theoretical foundation and acquiring practical skills to effectively organize work at all stages of the road infrastructure lifecycle. Currently, employees of the organizations "Road Expertise" LLC, "Gazpromneft-Industrial Innovations" LLC, "ABZ-Dorstroy" JSC, and "ABZ-1" JSC are undergoing training in the program.

The program was developed and is being implemented by leading faculty from the Institute of Industrial, Civil, and Road Construction (ISI) under the leadership of Yuri Lazarev, Director of the Institute of Industrial, Civil, and Road Construction (ISIPC).

The graduate's qualifications include the ability to professionally develop highway projects, manage construction and repair work, conduct diagnostics of the condition of road structures, and develop and propose effective measures to improve their operational reliability and service life.

Graduates of the program will be prepared to address complex challenges in developing transport and road infrastructure that ensures the comfort and safety of road users.

Upon completion of the training, students will receive a diploma of professional retraining and the assignment of the appropriate qualification.

"We have created an effective platform for studying modern trends and materials for extending the service life of road surfaces and foundations, as well as technological transformations and innovations in road construction. I am confident that the issues being explored will contribute to improving the efficiency of leading companies and organizations in the industry," noted Yuri Lazarev.

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.