XI International Scientific and Technical Conference in Memory of Professor Vladimir Lipskii

The conference was organized by the Department of Pipeline Transport and Hydraulics and the Science and Technology Park of Euphrosyne Polotskaya State University of Polotsk.

The discussion of scientific and industrial issues involved leaders of major Belarusian enterprises and organizations: JSC "Gazprom Transgaz Belarus," GPUE "Beltopgaz", UE "Zapad-Transnefteproduct", JSC "Gomeltransneft Druzhba", LLC "Belpromizolyatsiya", the Engineering and Technical Center of JSC "Gazprom Transgaz Belarus", JSC "BELGAZSTROY", UE "Vitebskoblgaz", RUE "Mogilevoblgaz", PRUE "Grodnooblgaz", UE "Minskoblgaz", UE "MINGAZ", LLC "DIVITECH" and LLC "Globaltest".

The conference participants were welcomed by the Rector of Polotsk University, Yury Ramanouski, and the Head of the Department for Supervision of Safe Work Practices in Industry of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Republic of Belarus, Alexander Klobuk.

Dmitry Shavlovsky, First Deputy General Director of GPUE "Beltopgaz": "This conference serves as a vital platform for dialogue among specialists, scientists, and industry representatives. The valuable insights we gain here will be directly applied within our operations at 'Beltopgaz'. The outcomes of such collaborative work enable us not only to boost innovation and dynamism across the sector but also to make timely adjustments to practices that enhance industrial safety. Making the right decisions is crucial to ensure our facilities operate without accidents, incidents, or disruptions".

Vladimir Ausev, Chief Engineer-First Deputy General Director of JSC "Gazprom Transgaz Belarus": "Thirty years after the establishment of the Department of Pipeline Transport, we can confidently say that Professor Vladimir Lipski's initiative, under those historical conditions, made it possible to build a workforce for the oil and gas industry, thereby making a significant contribution to ensuring the energy security of the Republic of Belarus. Over this time, we have developed not only a working but also a warm, friendly relationship with the department. I always gladly participate in conferences, listen to reports with interest, and review the graduate theses. It is truly educational and fascinating.

I would like to note that today, over 200 graduates of the Department of Pipeline Transport are successfully working at our enterprise, applying the unique knowledge accumulated at Polotsk University. Among the first graduates of the specialty 'Design, Construction, and Operation of Oil and Gas Pipelines and Storage Facilities' were eight of our employees, who are also present here today. Furthermore, about 15% of those who received training at the Department of Pipeline Transport hold high-ranking managerial positions at our enterprise, ensuring the reliability and safety of the gas transmission system and underground gas storage facilities.

I wish all participants a fruitful exchange of views, the acquisition of new knowledge, and the gaining of experience that will be successfully applied to ensure the energy security of our state".

The conference was chaired by the Department for Supervision of Safe Work Practices in Industry of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Republic of Belarus. During the event, representatives of leading Belarusian higher education institutions delivered reports, including:

• Belarusian National Technical University
• State Institute for Advanced Training and Retraining of Personnel in Gas Supply "GAZ-INSTITUTE"
• Belarusian Research and Design Institute of Oil "BelNIPIneft"
• Production Association "Belorusneft"
• Sukhoi State Technical University of Gomel
• Belarusian State University of Transport

The conference confirmed its international status, as representatives of Russian higher education institutions also delivered reports, including:

• Gubkin Russian State University of Oil and Gas, Moscow
• Saint Petersburg Mining University of Empress Catherine II, Saint Petersburg
• Samara State Technical University, Samara
• Ukhta State Technical University, Ukhta
• All-Russian Scientific Research Institute for Construction, Operation of Pipelines and Fuel and Energy Complex Facilities – Engineering Oil and Gas Company, Moscow

Colleagues from Azerbaijan and China joined the discussion: from the Azerbaijan State University of Oil and Industry, the SOCAR Oil and Gas Research and Design Institute, Baku, and Shenyang Polytechnic University, Shenyang.

Bing Zhang, Deputy Dean of the School of Petrochemical Engineering at Shenyang University of Technology: "This conference provides a valuable platform for colleagues in the pipeline technology sector from around the world to share cutting-edge advancements, inspire innovative ideas, and deepen international cooperation.

As pipeline transportation is the 'artery' for energy and resource transfer, the safe, efficient, and intelligent development of pipeline transportation is of paramount importance. Our university has long been engaged in research in energy chemical engineering and storage and transportation technologies. We look forward to exchanging ideas and learning from experts and scientists worldwide, jointly addressing industry challenges and exploring future trends".

The conference received 86 paper submissions, grouped into four sections for nine sessions across two days. Despite the diversity of languages, specialists from different countries achieved clear mutual understanding.

An exhibition of UE "Vitebskoblgaz" specialized equipment was held on the university campus during the conference's opening day. Attendees explored the modern machinery and vehicles integral to the company's daily work.

A lecture hall named in honor of Professor Vladimir Lipskii was inaugurated during the scientific forum at Polotsk University. Professor is recognized as the founder of higher pipeline education in the Republic of Belarus, the creator of its scientific school of pipeline transport, and the founding head of the University's Department of Pipeline Transport. The new hall features an informational display presenting his biography, outlining his professional achievements and honors, and sharing a collection of his memorable quotes.

Based on the conference results, a proceedings volume is planned to be published. Papers are accepted until December 8. Additional information is available on the conference webpage.