Connecting Generations: Innovative Proposals at BelSU’s Tatiana's Day Event

Festive event titled “Students: Connecting Times, Co-existence, Co-Creation” brought together student activists, institute directors, university administration representatives of Belgorod National Research University (BelSU), and members of the Belgorod Region Government, led by Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov.

Participants engaged in roundtable discussions focused on student initiatives aimed at the socioeconomic development of the region. Among the ideas presented was the White Quarter project in the heart of Belgorod. Students proposed reflecting the region’s culture through landscape design, such as planting Belgorod lilacs from the BelSU Botanical Garden, which boasts the largest collection of cultivars in the post-Soviet space.

Additionally, suggestions were made to establish a youth coworking space within the White Quarter for developing city or regional projects. This space would allow citizens to submit their ideas for approval using electronic kiosks.

“We’re not just trying to change the centre of Belgorod. The broader vision is to create a large pedestrian zone stretching from Lenin Central Park to Picnic Park, with diverse activities available in every square meter along this route. We hope that the implementation of the 'White Quarter' will create an engaging space where young people will regularly gather,” Governor Gladkov remarked.

Students also proposed creating a GTO Route, featuring a running and cycling path connecting the Berega Sports Cluster to the Svetlana Khorkina Sports Complex, which includes an outdoor area equipped with exercise equipment and gear adapted for individuals with disabilities. Signage will help city residents and visitors access this area and join the GTO movement. Furthermore, students suggested developing an online platform for organizing customized training programs tailored to participants’ health, age, and physical characteristics.