The All-Russian Student Graduation Ceremony 2026 commences at the National Centre RUSSIA
The All-Russian Student Graduation Ceremony 2026 has begun at the National Centre RUSSIA, bringing together the country's top university and college graduates. Finalists of the "Graduate 2026" competition, leaders of student self-government, participants in the Your Move project, representatives of youth organisations, and authors of socially significant initiatives have gathered to celebrate the completion of one stage of their lives and take the first step into the next. 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.
Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation Olga Petrova addressed the graduates with warm words of congratulations, noting that new opportunities now lie ahead of them, giving them the chance to leave their mark on Russia's history.
"For the second year in a row, we have gathered at the National Centre RUSSIA for the All-Russian Student Graduation Ceremony. This celebration has become possible thanks to the joint efforts of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, Rosmolodezh, the Your Move project, the Russian society Znanie, and the National Centre RUSSIA, which has opened its doors to us. This is not only a place where our country's achievements are showcased, but also a space where you can begin your professional journey, especially if you continue your studies at Master's level while combining education with work. Today, three branches are already open — in Vladivostok, Krasnoyarsk and Khanty-Mansiysk — and two more will soon begin operating in Ryazan and Sevastopol. Every visit here fills you with pride for our country and for the opportunity to be part of what is happening. The expositions are constantly being renewed and new projects continue to appear. I recently visited the regional branches in Vladivostok and Krasnoyarsk. I can honestly say they took my breath away. Thank you for making it possible to hold events like this here," said Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation Olga Petrova.
The graduation ceremony's slogan, "The Energy of the Future", reflects its central idea: the future is being created today — in research laboratories, on stage and through volunteer initiatives. Graduates were also congratulated by Natalia Virtuozova, Director General of the National Centre RUSSIA.
"For the National Centre RUSSIA, established by order of our President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, it is a great honour to welcome 500 of the country's finest university and college graduates. The Head of State created this space so that we can come together and truly appreciate what a great country we have. It is here that we are building the future together. And that future, my friends, belongs to you. It depends on young people like you — courageous, ambitious and passionate about what you do. Dream boldly, work hard, love your country and move forward with confidence. Do not be afraid of setbacks — they are also part of the journey. Your story is only just beginning," said Director General of the National Centre RUSSIA Natalia Virtuozova.
Throughout the day, participants will take part in an extensive programme organised around four thematic tracks: "Education of the Future" for aspiring scientists and researchers; "Youth Policy of the Future" for future leaders and public administrators; "Creativity of the Future" for performers and vocalists; and "Media of the Future" for journalists and bloggers. Each participant will be able to choose the area that best matches their interests and skills, share their experience, and work alongside experts to shape a vision of the future in their chosen field.
"The All-Russian Student Graduation by the 'Your Move' project annually brings together the most talented and active graduates from across the country. At the National Centre RUSSIA, 500 students from 70 regions of Russia gathered. Besides having achieved academic success, they have also demonstrated engagement in public initiatives, launched their own social projects, involved their peers and created new opportunities within their educational institutions. Our task, while implementing the national project 'Youth and Children', is to support young people's initiatives at every stage, so that development does not end upon graduation from an educational institution," shared Grigory Gurov, Head of the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs (Rosmolodezh).
One of the day's key events will be a foresight session, during which graduates will analyse emerging trends, assess their impact on future professions and identify practical steps towards success. The celebration will culminate in the heartfelt "Letter to a First-Year Student" initiative, in which graduates will write letters to those about to begin their university or college studies, passing on their experience, advice and words of encouragement. For those unable to attend in Moscow, the event is also being livestreamed online, featuring interactive shows, debates and congratulatory messages from university rectors across the country. The celebration will conclude with a festive concert.
The All-Russian Student Graduation Ceremony 2026 is 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.
Event photobank
The outdoor exposition "Beyond the Edge of the Map" in the Ryazan Region has been extended.
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.
