Honoring Young Talents: results of the International competition "Climate and water 2.0"

On February 20, 2026, an award ceremony for the winners of the International Research Competition for Students and Young Scientists in the field of Hydrometeorology "Climate and Water 2.0: Innovations and Digital Solutions" was held at the Belarusian State University (BSU).

The competition, organized by the BSU Faculty of Geography and Geoinformatics in partnership with Belgidromet, Roshydromet, the Russian State Hydrometeorological University, and Yugra State University, ran from May to December 2025. Its goal is to promote knowledge in climatology and hydrology, foster international cooperation, and identify talented youth. This year, the expert jury reviewed 80 papers from Belarus, Russia, Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan.

The ceremony was attended by Sergei Khilman, Head of Belhydromet. His presence underscored the organization's commitment to supporting young professionals and developing cooperation with leading educational and research centers.

The event began with a visit to the Museum of Earth Sciences, offering an opportunity to delve into the rich heritage of planetary study.

The ceremony was opened by Elena Kolmakova, Dean of the Faculty of Geography and Geoinformatics at BSU, who noted the competition's importance in stimulating young people's research activities and forming a unified educational and informational environment.

Mr. Khilman delivered a welcome address, emphasizing the relevance of the competition's theme in the context of modern challenges facing the hydrometeorological service. He commended the high level of the presented research projects and stressed the importance of involving young specialists in addressing pressing issues in hydrometeorology, particularly regarding digitalization and adaptation to climate change.

The culmination of the day was the award ceremony for the competition winners. Young researchers who demonstrated deep knowledge and original ideas received well-deserved awards, serving as an incentive for the further development of their scientific talents.

The competition "Climate and Water 2.0: Innovations and Digital Solutions" served not only as a platform for showcasing young people's scientific achievements but also as an important step in strengthening cooperation between science, education, and practice, laying the foundation for future innovations in the field of hydrometeorology.