Open dialogue on Russia's future takes place at the All-Russian Student Graduation Ceremony 2026
As part of the All-Russian Student Graduation Ceremony 2026 at the National Centre RUSSIA, an open dialogue entitled "What Future Are We Building and What Role Do Young People Play in It?" was held. It was a key event of the extensive programme. Graduates, student leaders and youth activists from across the country met with representatives of the government, education and business to discuss what Russia might look like in 10, 15 and 50 years' time, and explore the role today's young people will play in shaping that future.
Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation Olga Petrova noted that a comprehensive approach to higher education — combining academic study, extracurricular activities and practical experience — is becoming an essential element in preparing graduates to shape their own futures and contribute to the country's development today.
"One of the key objectives of the higher education system is to develop well-rounded graduates equipped with the competencies employers are looking for. Many of these competencies are formed through extracurricular activities, where students organise events, learn to take responsibility, make mistakes and find ways to correct them. That is why our main priority is the new national model of higher education, distinguished by its practice-oriented approach, flexibility, strong academic foundation and greater involvement of employers in graduate training. These principles are embedded in our flagship development programmes, including the 'Priority 2030' programme, the 'Advanced Engineering Schools' project and others. Together, they help us create conditions in which graduates can adapt to the workplace as quickly as possible," said Olga Petrova.
Participants discussed what people might be like in 10 to 15 years' time, exploring how values, skills and lifestyles may evolve. Anastasia Zvyagina, Deputy Director General of the National Centre RUSSIA, reminded graduates that while times and technologies change, it is people — their principles and values — who remain at the centre.
"Russia is a civilisation built on traditional spiritual and moral values. These values form the foundation of our society. Recently, the National Centre RUSSIA hosted the All-Russian Wedding Festival, and VCIOM conducted a survey for us among young people. The results showed that 76% of Russians believe that starting a family and raising children is one of life's most important purposes. Seventy-two per cent believe that the family exists first and foremost to provide love and support. Sixty-eight per cent agree that parents have the greatest influence on a child's personal development, while 88% believe that it is the family who is responsible for passing on values to children. And what is the Motherland? The Motherland is one great family. As our President has said, 'Russia is a family of families.' That is why I would like to encourage you to define your own values now and remain true to them. Above all, the person of the future will be a moral and spiritual individual who also knows how to use modern technologies wisely and for the benefit of society," said Anastasia Zvyagina.
Responding to the question of what qualities the person of the future should possess, Denis Ashirov, State Secretary and Deputy Head of the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs (Rosmolodezh), identified four essential characteristics: patriotism, responsibility, continuous self-development and humanity.
"The person of the future should be well-rounded in every respect, whether we are talking about education, professional competencies or life skills. Secondly, they must be a patriot of their country. At the same time, patriotism is not limited to the state alone — it also means loving your hometown, your family and the people around you. That sense of belonging gives us strength. Thirdly, it is about taking responsibility for your own life and your own decisions. And we all need to learn to be rather than merely appear, because what is truly valued is when a person remains themselves, preserving sincerity and humanity. When all these qualities come together, you become more than simply the graduates of 2026 — you become people your parents, your loved ones and your entire country can be proud of," said Denis Ashirov.
The discussion also featured Andrei Bogdantsev, Project Manager at the presidential platform "Russia – Land of Opportunity", and Amir Sarakov, Vice President for Strategic Partnerships Development at SuperJob.
Concluding the discussion, the speakers answered questions from the audience and offered personal words of encouragement to the graduates. Each emphasised the same message: the future does not simply happen — it is created by those who are prepared to take action, learn from their mistakes and believe in themselves.
The All-Russian Student Graduation Ceremony 2026 took place at the National Centre RUSSIA on 17 July. The event was organised by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs (Rosmolodezh), the All-Russian student project "Your Move", the Russian Society Znanie, the National Centre RUSSIA, and the presidential platform "Russia – Land of Opportunity".
The day's extensive programme included educational sessions, lectures, public initiatives, performances by leading artists and other celebratory events for more than 600 graduates from every region of Russia — finalists of the "Graduate 2026" competition, leaders of student councils, participants in the "Your Move" project and representatives of student organisations. This year's All-Russian Student Graduation Ceremony was held under the slogan "The Energy of the Future."
Event photobank
The outdoor exposition "Beyond the Edge of the Map" in the Ryazan Region has been extended.
The central theme of this year's celebration, "The Energy of the Future", is dedicated to young people who are already shaping Russia's future by advancing technology, science, culture, media and public initiatives.
Following numerous requests from prospective participants, the application deadline for the All-Russian Award "More Than a Trip" has been extended until 31 July, inclusive.
