On May 13, 2026, Vitebsk State Medical University launched the open military-patriotic contest "I would join the Army", dedicated to Victory Day and the Year of the Belarusian Woman.

The opening ceremony of the three-day competition was held at the base of the 103rd Vitebsk Separate Guards Airborne Brigade, bringing together the leadership of the All-Russian State Medical University, participants and honored guests: Igor Demyanenko, head of the office of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Vitebsk, Olga Ivanova, Chairman of the Vitebsk City Council of Deputies, First Secretary of the Vitebsk City Committee of the public association "Belarusian Republican Youth Union" Alexander Byshneva.

Alexey Chukanov, Rector of VSMU, welcomed the participants and wished them bright victories, noting that such contests instill in young people respect for the feat of their ancestors, form a sense of duty and patriotism.

The competition is scaling up every year: for the first time, teams from Russia and Uzbekistan are participating in it. In total, student groups from 10 universities in three countries will compete for the title of the best. The program promises to be bright: the all-around "Strength. Dexterity. Speed", the stage "Chemical alarm", the creative competition "This Victory Day", the intellectual tournament "Experts", the shooting competition "Sniper. Accuracy. Accuracy. Mastery", culinary competition "A treat for a soldier" and much more.

"Three years ago, when organizing an intra—university event, we thought to gather girls who are interested in showing their talents and love for the Motherland," said Alexey Chukanov, Rector of VSMU. — But having seen the demand, and today the competition brings together more than 100 participants from Belarus, Russia and Uzbekistan, we understand that young people have a need. This is an international celebration of history and patriotism, where each participant will be able to discover something new."

The "I would join the Army" contest has long been the hallmark of VSMU, proving that protection of the Motherland and femininity go hand in hand, and mercy and patriotism are among the best qualities of a Belarusian woman.