New branch of the Russian Geographical Society

Alexander Chibilev and Vasiliy Kozupitsa
Alexander Chibilev and Vasiliy Kozupitsa

On October 24 in Orsk, Orenburg oblast, the solemn opening and first organizational meeting of East Orenburg local branch of the Russian Geographical Society was held. 

The event was attended by representatives of four municipalities of the Oblast eastern part: Novoorsky rayon, cities of Gai, Novotroitsk and Orsk. 

"Eastern part of Orenburg oblast and Orsk always played a key role in the historical and geographical development of our region. The foundation of the first Orenburg fortress was laid  here, geographers Ivan K. Kirilov, Vasily Tatishchev and many other researchers came here to study the southeastern margin of the Russian state, - said Vice-President of the Russian Geographical Society, chairman of Orenburg regional branch Alexander Chibilev at the opening of the meeting. - I believe that today the city of Orsk should become a kind of outpost of the Russian Geographical Society, which will unite the efforts of concerned and active people around the really useful and meaningful initiatives and will be the basis for their implementation".

dsc_0139.jpg

The meeting
The meeting

 

First deputy head of the city administration Vasiliy Kozupitsa was elected Chairman of East Orenburg local branch. In his speech he expressed hope that the establishment of the branch will promote and popularize the activities of the Russian Geographical Society, its projects and programs. 

Head of Novotroitsk Museum and Exhibition Center Irina Fursova, chairman of Orsk methodical association of geography teachers Elena Krasilnikova, head of the Club of Young Geologists and Ecologists of the Palace of Pioneers Galina Sopotsko, head of the department of archeology of Orsk Museum of local lore Alexander Ushakov, employees of Gai local lore museum and Novoorsky children's center spoke about the possibilities and perspectives of the joint work. 

The participants discussed priorities of the branch, including the development and publishing of atlases, organization of annual school expeditions, participation in grant competitions of the Russian Geographical Society, organization of school geographical platforms in towns and villages of East Orenburg. 

During the discussion it was decided to open the Center of the youth movement "Pathfinders of the Russian geographical society" on the platform of Orsk club of young Geologists and Ecologists. This association has been successfully presenting Orenburg oblast in many national and international gathering of young geologists. 

During the meeting the Board of East Orenburg local branch was approved. The Board will consist of heads of educational institutions, teachers of geography and biology, scientists, historians and public figures.