The Belarusian-Russian Forum "Union State: Inclusive Education · Centers and Technoparks" successfully concluded at Pskov State University. Held from November 13 to 15, the event brought together over 200 participants from more than 20 regions of both countries. Representatives from the Standing Committee of the Union State, the Ministry of Education of Belarus, the Russian Ministry of Science and Higher Education, research institutions, industrial enterprises, and university faculty and students engaged in groundbreaking international discussions on the challenges and prospects of inclusive higher education within a research and technological framework. A large delegation from Vitebsk State University named after P.M. Masherov, comprising administrators, educators, and students, participated in all forum activities across the three days.

The program featured plenary sessions, panel discussions, and 11 thematic sections. Participants examined the integration of scientific-educational policies within the Union State, focusing on unified reform pathways and harmonized state support measures for inclusive education infrastructure in both nations. Case studies from Belarusian and Russian institutions provided comprehensive insights into current developments and practical experiences in inclusive education.

Valentina Bogatyreva, Rector of Vitebsk State University, noted: "As recently as 2022, we were just beginning to conceptualize the Russian-Belarusian Technopark for Inclusive Education in the border regions of Pskov and Vitebsk. This forum marks a pivotal first step toward realizing this ambitious project. Such platforms are essential for professionals to align on strategic directions and, crucially, to develop actionable implementation plans."

A highlight was the open session of the Federal Educational-Methodological Association on "Education and Pedagogical Sciences," addressing "Developing Inclusive Competencies for Teachers Under Fourth-Generation Educational Standards." The session analyzed effective technologies for inclusive education and established a framework for collaborative research on inclusive solutions and post-traumatic stress disorder interventions. Discussions also explored gifted education and innovative communication strategies in higher education.

An exhibition showcased cutting-edge assistive technologies and ICT products for inclusive higher education.

The student "Social Innovation Accelerator" platform facilitated international youth teams in designing grant-worthy inclusive projects.

Key outcomes included:

• A proposal for a unified Union State concept on inclusive education systems
• Cross-border teacher training programs for special education
• Plans for a Union State Technopark for Inclusive Education
• Annual teacher exchange platforms
• Harmonized accessibility standards
• A future Belarus-Russia Olympiad for students with special needs
• A potential All-Russian Forum on inclusive student initiatives

Organizers emphasized: "Such forums must become regular. The ideas generated here will advance inclusive education, strengthen universities' societal role in promoting inclusive values, and elevate the quality of education in both nations."

Hosted by Pskov State University and Vitebsk State University with support from the Standing Committee of the Union State and both countries' education ministries, the forum was part of the "TOGETHER" Russian-Belarusian University Consortium initiatives.

Pskov State University Press Center