Andrei Korol, the Rector of Belarusian State University (BSU), summarised the achievements of the country’s leading university over the past five years. He emphasised three major accomplishments during this time: the university being honoured with the Belarusian Government Award for Achievements in Quality, the successful deployment of its own nanosatellites, and a major advancement in co-operation with the People’s Republic of China. According to Mr. Korol, these initiatives demonstrate the university’s progress in scientific research and international co-operation, serving as clear recognition of its contributions at the state level, sb.by reports.
Mr. Korol pointed out that the most notable recent milestone was the Government’s high praise of the university’s efforts through the Belarusian Government Award for Achievements in Quality. The challenge was managing BSU’s unique and complex structure, which is far more complicated than that of a typical educational institution. Currently, BSU includes 16 faculties, 10 educational institutions, 6 research institutes, 6 enterprises, a science and technology park, 6 specialised laboratories, 3 training and experimental stations, and 7 museums.
“Bringing all these elements together into a single, manageable unit presents its own challenge. This step is essential to ensure that internal data — such as, e.g., financial expenses and ongoing projects from the Institute of Physical and Chemical Problems — can be effectively incorporated into the activities of related structures,” he explained.
The second major milestone of the five-year plan was the university’s space programme. By launching its own nanosatellites, Belarusian State University joined the prestigious group of leading scientific institutions worldwide.
“Many top universities globally lack such capabilities. Out of 30,000 universities around the world, only about a hundred have access to this kind of opportunity,” Mr. Korol highlighted.
The third key to success has been an unprecedented co-operation with the People’s Republic of China. According to the rector, focusing eastward has produced tangible and measurable results in both education and research.
“Currently, more than 4,000 Chinese students are studying at BSU. Certainly, five years ago, the number was much lower — it has approximately doubled since then. This progress is thanks to the various programmes the university is developing. We partner with leading universities. For example, our joint institutes with Dalian Polytechnic University (DPU) are particularly notable. Our Chinese partners frequently suggest initiatives, which we naturally align with our own goals, interests, and capabilities,” Mr. Korol explained.
A particular point of pride is the strategic partnership with Peking University, widely regarded as a world-class institution, highlighted Mr. Korol, “The creation of a joint Centre for Fundamental Scientific Research is a major achievement that has already begun to take shape. Currently, there are initial collaborative projects underway between BSU and Peking University.”
