Young scientists from BRICS countries have called for stronger collaboration in Arctic research, sustainable tourism and the preservation of Indigenous cultures during the International Scientific and Practical Conference in Russia.
The conference, organised by the Russian-Asian Arctic Research Consortium with support from the Russia-BRICS Project Office for International Youth Cooperation, brought together researchers from Russia, China and other BRICS nations to discuss joint initiatives in ecology, logistics, energy, tourism and Arctic resource development.
“Several universities and research organisations from China have already joined the work of the consortium, as well as representatives from India.
“We are moving forward and expanding in the Asian direction.
“This creates a very positive cumulative effect, as we do not approach the study of particular issues from a single perspective,” Roman Kuchin, Co-Chairman of the consortium and Rector of Ugra State University, said.
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A major focus was preserving the culture of Indigenous peoples in Russia’s Arctic regions. Organisers highlighted the “IT Nomadic Camp” project, which uses broadband internet to improve education, communication and cultural participation for residents of remote communities.
“Chats and unique social groups have emerged, which began communicating in their native languages. Most importantly, people gained the opportunity to participate remotely in socio-cultural projects,” said Aleksander Novyukhov, Senator and President of the Association of Indigenous Peoples of the North, Siberia and the Far East of the Russian Federation.
The conference also featured the “DobroArktika” tourism competition, where students presented projects promoting ecological, ethnographic and event tourism. One initiative, “CHUMbuilding,” allows visitors to experience Indigenous traditions by building and living in a traditional chum while taking part in local crafts and rituals.
The event formed part of the All-Russian Forum for Civil Society Development “Dobrino,” which attracted more than 500 participants.
