Svetlana Vorobyova, Deputy Director of the Expert Analytics and International Affairs Department. Photo: event organizers
The delegation of the RGS took part in BRICS Geographer’s Day, which was held from October 20 to 22 in Egypt. The representatives from Russia shared their experience in developing youth initiatives in the field of geosciences, and also spoke about their vision of the modern mission of geography, sustainable development, and the preservation of cultural heritage.
BRICS Geographer’s Day was established in 2024 at a summit in Kazan. The holiday is celebrated annually on August 18. Events of various formats are held in Russia and other countries of the group. In October, a series of business activities continued in Egypt. The goal, to promote the role of geography and related sciences, as well as to involve the younger generation of the BRICS countries in research activities and international projects. On October 20, the representatives of Russia, China, and South Africa arrived in Cairo. On the first day, the participants from different countries exchanged experiences in implementing scientific and educational programs to promote geography through technological solutions.
Svetlana Vorobyova, Expert Analytics and International Affairs Department, spoke on behalf of the RGS at the business program of the first day. She spoke about the Society’s digital and expedition projects.
«Geography unites the past and the future. It helps to understand the relationship between natural processes and analyze what tools we can use now to preserve the ecological and social balance,» said Svetlana Vorobyova. «The RGS promotes geography as a living, interdisciplinary force that transcends academic walls. The RGS implements a number of projects: these are complex expeditions in Russia and around the world, the creation of digital encyclopedias to preserve reliable scientific data. We hold the All-Russian competition 'High-Class Geography’ and offer teachers to conduct non-standard lessons for schoolchildren. We follow the same strategy as the Russian pioneers: we bring together enthusiasts who love their work and their country. It is through joint international experience, ecotourism, and education that the RGS creates 'public geography’. This is a community of caring people who work with us to solve common problems. Our goal is to make geography a part of everyday consciousness, connecting the BRICS peoples not through politics, but through real participation and caring for our common home.»
Augmented reality technology. Photo: Svetlana Vorobyova
In their speeches, the representatives of the delegations paid special attention to environmental initiatives implemented by world capitals.
«Through education, science, and innovation, we can inspire a new generation of young leaders to find answers on how to make our world a better place,» said Maher Iissa, Professor of Egyptology and Coptology at Fayoum University’s Faculty of Archaeology.
On the second day, the event participants visited the Center for Documentation of Cultural and Natural Heritage (CULTNAT) and the Egyptian Museum. The guests of BRICS Geographer’s Day were introduced to innovative methods of documenting archaeological landscapes and digitalizing historical heritage.
The work program ended on the third day in the Faiyoum Governorate. This is the largest oasis, where natural, historical, and cultural heritage sites are located. The visit was aimed at exploring the local experience of balancing traditional land use with modern approaches to preserving local heritage.
Maria Buldakova