On November 20, the conference hall at Gomel Sukhoi University resembled a living world map: a medley of melodic African chants, rapid Arabic speech, reserved European dialogues, and, of course, the familiar Belarusian "Vitaem!" One of the most colorful events of the fall took place there that day: the "Welcome to Polytechnic University!" induction ceremony for international first-year students, which this time broke all records for geographic diversity.

The ceremony brought together future engineers and technologists from 14 countries

from sunny Sri Lanka to colorful African nations. The delegation from the Democratic Republic of the Congo was particularly impressive, with 24 members, making the Congolese diaspora one of the largest in the university's international community. Alongside them were students from Egypt, Morocco, as well as representatives from Burundi, Guinea, Kazakhstan, Cameroon, Lebanon, Nigeria, Russia, Rwanda, Senegal, and Uzbekistan.

The event's guest of honor was ice Rector for Education and Instruction Grigoriy V. Piyatrishin, who personally welcomed the new members of the State Technical University of Gomel family. "Today, our university is becoming more than just an educational institution for you, but a true home where every culture is valued, every tradition is respected, and every student's potential is helped to unleashed," Grigory Valentinovich addressed the gathering. "You are not just students; you are bridges between countries, ambassadors of your cultures, and future creators of technologies that will change the world for the better."

Warm congratulations were also extended by representatives of the deans' offices of all faculties. Addressing the students, Dean of the Faculty of Energy, Alexander Olegovich Dobrodey, emphasized: "Energy unites nations—and today we see living proof of these words." Natalia Vladimirovna Inozemtseva, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, encouraged the students to "not be afraid of challenging tasks, as they are what forge the character of a true engineer." Representatives of the Faculty of Humanities and Economics and the Faculty of Automated Systems expressed confidence that cultural diversity would become an additional resource in the educational process.

A particularly touching moment was the first-year students' oath, which was recited in four languages. The students solemnly promised to "honorably bear the title of Polytechnic student," and the chorus of "We promise!" in Russian became a symbolic act of unity for all present. The ceremony concluded with the traditional anthem "Gaudeamus," which seemed especially poignant that day—a hymn not only to students but also to international friendship.

As Rector for Education and Instruction Grigoriy V. Piyatrishin noted after the ceremony, "such events are not just a formality, but an important step in building a unified educational space where Belarusian traditions of educational quality are enriched by international experience and perspectives." And judging by the shining eyes of the students, ready to begin their journey in Belarusian higher education, this academic year will mark the beginning of a new chapter in their lives, full of discoveries and achievements.