In a remarkable journey that combined science, exploration, and international collaboration, Alina Chembayeva, a schoolgirl from Uzbekistan, reached the geographic North Pole as part of the prestigious “Icebreaker of Knowledge” Arctic expedition.
The international Arctic expedition “Icebreaker of Knowledge”, organized by the Information Centers for Nuclear Energy with the support of Russia’s Rosatom State Corporation, has successfully concluded its latest journey, bringing together young scientific minds from across the globe, The Caspian Post informs via Uzbek media.
Over the course of 10 unforgettable days, 66 outstanding students from 21 countries, including Uzbekistan, not only reached the geographic North Pole, but also immersed themselves in a rigorous educational program on board a nuclear-powered icebreaker.
For Uzbekistan, the expedition marked a significant achievement: Chembayeva, a talented schoolgirl, was selected from among 4,000 international applicants to join the voyage-an honor that highlights the country’s growing presence in global scientific initiatives.
The expedition serves as a core part of the “Icebreaker of Knowledge” project, which aims to popularize natural sciences and nuclear technologies, identify and nurture gifted youth, and support their professional development.
“We had a full schedule every day-lectures, meals, discussions, and evening programs. But what stood out most to me was how approachable the experts were. You could ask them anything. When I noticed the ice was blue instead of clear, I simply asked the onboard oceanographer why. That kind of direct interaction made learning incredibly real and exciting,” said Alina.
Alina also used the opportunity to share her culture with her peers, speaking about Samarkand, Bukhara, and the rich heritage of Uzbekistan, often inviting fellow participants to visit her homeland.
Held under the “Science to Win” initiative as part of Russia’s Decade of Science and Technology, the expedition also commemorated two historic milestones: the 80th anniversary of Russia’s nuclear industry and the 500th anniversary of the Northern Sea Route.
Students attended lectures by leading scientists and industry experts in nuclear physics, composite materials, and ecology, while gaining hands-on exposure to the operation of Russia’s nuclear icebreaker fleet. Since the project’s inception, over 400 students have taken part in Arctic voyages organized by Rosatom.
Captain Ruslan Sasov of the nuclear icebreaker 50 Let Pobedy ("50 Years of Victory") reflected on the impact:
“For the second year in a row, we’ve welcomed students from around the world-not just Russia-to the Arctic. Showing them the North Pole, polar bears, and the vast ice fields was unforgettable. You have to see the wonder in their eyes to truly understand the power of the ‘Icebreaker of Knowledge’.”
The experience had a lasting impact on many participants, influencing their career aspirations. While some students were inspired to pursue paths in science or engineering, Alina said the expedition affirmed her passion for communications.
She encouraged other young people to take a chance and apply:
“Don’t be afraid to try. If you’re rejected, you lose nothing-but if you don’t try your best, you may regret it later. Opportunities like this only come once in a lifetime. Everything is in your hands.”
Uzbekistan’s involvement in the program began in 2024, when Shahzoda Yokubova, a graduate of the Tashkent branch of MEPhI, participated as a guest expert and science popularizer.
More than just an educational project, “Icebreaker of Knowledge” has become a unique platform for international youth cooperation, combining science, culture, and diplomacy. Through shared experiences and personal connections, it helps foster a new generation of globally minded innovators ready to shape the future of science and technology.
