On the invitation of “The International Competence Centre for Mining-Engineering Education”, 8 students of the Polytechnic University, majoring Mining and Extraction of Minerals, Metallurgy, and Chemical Technology of the Institute of Mining and Metallurgy took part in the winter school. Mineral utilization issues, socio-economic development rate of the country thanks to it, influence of human-made factors on the environment and their consequences were discussed during the winter school. One of the most important questions discussed was the one dealing with the possibility to balance utilization of mines and nature protection. During the winter school, student groups based on professional directions and preferences have done researches referring the topics, listened to lectures delivered and did some practical activities with the professionals of that sphere. The main studies referred to fuel industry: oil, gas, coal and turf, its extraction and recycling issues. Students got familiar with equipment of the underground mines, its drilling, loading and transportation equipment, had a chance to test such machines, and visited the virtual laboratory.

Besides, the students also visited one of the most popular and huge Theater of Opera and Ballet – Mariinsky Theater and watched the ballet “Sleeping Beauty”.

The fact is that the international experience, knowledge and new ideas have their positive effect on scientific and mental promotion of students.