On March 10, 2025, the Rostov Nuclear Power Plant (Rostov NPP) hosted the intellectual tournament dubbed "Southern Wind," organized in the engaging format of the game "What? Where? When?" This year, the tournament gathered a remarkable twenty teams from various schools within the school league of the "Evrika" club—a scholarly initiative bolstered by nuclear scientists and the Station of Young Technicians.
The tournament saw record participation, with around 80 schoolchildren eager to showcase their intellect and knowledge, marking this as the highest turnout of the season. Mikhail Rybyshev, Deputy Director for Personnel Management of the Rostov NPP, noted, "Intellectual games are not only a way to test knowledge but also to evaluate flexibility of mind, speed of thinking, the ability to find non-standard solutions and work as part of a team. These skills are highly valued in the work of nuclear scientists, and we are glad to help develop them among schoolchildren by supporting the work of the 'Evrika' club."
The competition was structured around two rounds featuring 12 questions each, with participants allocated just one minute to discuss each query. A single point was awarded for each correct answer, encouraging not just specific knowledge but also general erudition and quick-wittedness.
Leading the pack was the team "Territory of Everything" from the Station of Young Technicians, who celebrated their victory with impeccable performance. Following closely were the "Atomishka" team from Lyceum No. 16, securing second place, and the "Energy of Knowledge" team from the phototechnical club, who claimed the bronze.
The Southern Wind tournament serves as part of broader efforts to popularize intellectual games as viable leisure activities for children and adolescents. It also aims to attract new participants to the intellectual game movement and identify the region’s strongest teams, supporting city clubs with their internal championships.
Since its inception, the "Evrika" intellectual club, established by the Rostov NPP and the Station of Young Technicians back in 2009, has nurtured the intellectual abilities of young minds. Currently, it boasts over 300 active participants competing across three leagues, namely the School League, Premier League, and Higher League. Regular meetings are held monthly within the Information Center of the Nuclear Power Plant.
Overall, the commitment of the Rostov NPP to fostering intellectual potential among youth is evident through their support of such initiatives, reinforcing their role as pivotal contributors to the educational development of the community. This nurturing of talent aligns with the state's priority of ensuring the younger generation is equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed, fostering not just academic achievement but also personal growth.