Miory Regional Executive Committee
The symbolic event "Key to the Second Century" took place at the main entrance of the Vitebsk Academy of Veterinary Medicine on the occasion of the institution's 100th anniversary.
Two keys that had opened the doors of what was then still a veterinary institute a century ago were presented as a generational link to fifth-year student Ksenia Valyushko and first-year student Zakhar Shandrikov. Distinguished guests at the event included First Deputy Chairman of the Regional Executive Committee Gennady Sabynich and Deputy Minister – Director of the Department of Veterinary and Food Control of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food of Belarus Ivan Smilgin.
According to Rector Olga Gorlova of the VAVM, the institution is a vital component of the country's food security. It trains veterinarians who are responsible for the quality of products reaching our tables. Research and analysis show that 80% of graduates chose their profession out of genuine calling and passion. Olga Gorlova wished the youth that these key artifacts would open all doors on their life path.
An exhibition showcasing items from the academy's museum and library collections was displayed in the foyer. Among dozens of notable exhibits are the graduation diploma of Vyacheslav Khomich, a member of the inaugural class, a handwritten textbook by Professor Nikolai Prozorov, pre-war student record books, and many other items.
Alongside distinguished guests, fifth-year students placed a message into a capsule for their peers in 2035. By long-standing tradition, graduates hold their first reunion ten years after completing their studies. As a result, established professionals and beginning specialists will read the message together.