On October 9, the Petrikovsky District hosted the VI Forum of Rural Youth. The district was represented at the large-scale event by Elena Khicheva, chair of the district organization of the trade union of workers in the agro-industrial complex; Sergey Malets, head of the repair shops at OAO "Luksky"; and Polina Semyonova, an accountant at OAO "Mormal".

The forum program turned out to be quite packed: exhibitions and promotions, tours of the National Park "Pripetsky", and a familiarization with the activities of "Agro-Lyaskovichi". But the main event of the day was the meeting with Ivan Krupko, Chairman of the Regional Executive Committee, and Yuri Valevaty, Assistant to the President - Inspector for the Gomel Region.

The conversation was lively and candid. The young people talked about their choice of profession and their plans for the future. They asked how the state supports young specialists in the regions and what opportunities await those who choose a career in rural areas. The regional leaders answered in detail, noting that the future of the agrarian sector depends precisely on the youth.

Polina Semyonova from Zhlobin also asked a question. She asked Ivan Krupko which agricultural specialty, in his opinion, would appear in the near future and make rural work even more attractive.

The young people shared their impressions of the eventful day with a journalist from the newspaper "Novy Dzen".

"The forum made a strong impression on me," says Sergey Malets. "The production organization at 'Agro-Lyaskovichi' was of great interest. It is especially valuable that we had the opportunity to ask questions directly to the regional leadership. It is clear that they hear us and count on us. For me, as a specialist responsible for the repair base, it is important that the focus in the countryside today is on modern machinery. This means our work will be in demand, and working conditions will improve. Such forums help us believe in our own strength."

"I am very glad to have been part of such a large-scale event. The tours and the acquaintance with advanced farms showed how diverse and interesting life in the countryside can be. It was important for me to ask my question to Ivan Krupko because I truly believe: the future of agriculture lies in new professions at the intersection of science, digital technologies, and agronomy. I want young people not to perceive work in the village as something non-prestigious. There is everything here for development: state support, modern enterprises, decent conditions. The main thing is not to be afraid to dream and to act."

Both interlocutors agreed: such meetings help to understand that the countryside is a promising platform for professional and personal growth. The residents of Zhlobin are proud to have presented their district at the forum and promise to share the experience gained with colleagues back home.