The public announcement of the foundation of the Vital Silicki Prize “For Contribution to the Promotion of Political Thought in Belarus” became the focal point of the gala evening that BISS traditionally held on 14 January to celebrate Old New Year’s Eve. The Vital Silicki Commemoration Committee established the Vital Silicki Prize to commemorate the prominent Belarusian political scientist, public thinker and first BISS director.
Spokesperson for the Committee Darja Slabčanka said that the foundation of the Vital Silicki Prize aimed to facilitate the continuation of the tradition of the high quality professional political science established by Vital.
As in previous years, BISS celebrated Old New Year’s Eve in casual style. Alexei Pikulik, BISS Academic Director, presented the new staff members of BISS, drew up the results of BISS activities in 2012 and spoke about the projects planned for the year 2013. Specifically, BISS analysts are planning to present the findings of extensive research into the system of education, employment market and other parameters in order to identify the most promising growth areas. Other plans include an update of the study of the social contract in Belarus with a view to monitoring changes in the process of building up citizens’ support for the state.
Joining the BISS staff at the event were diplomats representing foreign embassies accredited in Belarus, leaders of political parties and movements, representatives of the expert community and the media.
BISS will soon post a photo essay with glimpses from the event.