The GIS STUDENT DAY 2026 forum took place on October 1, 2026, at the MTS Live Hall in St. Petersburg. Organized by Gazinformservice as part of the IX annual GISDAYS event, the forum hosted over 2,000 students from across Russia, doubling the attendance compared to the 2025 event.
Experts from Gazinformservice reported a 35% growth in cybersecurity job openings over the last five years. However, entry-level positions for juniors account for only 4% to 11% of total vacancies, as the market increasingly prioritizes experienced professionals. Candidates are encouraged to demonstrate skills through CTF tournaments, internships, and pet projects.
The event featured a cyber-range competition involving 12 teams from Moscow and St. Petersburg, focusing on virtual infrastructures including banking, government, and energy sectors. Additionally, approximately 900 participants engaged in CTF challenges covering cryptography, forensics, and web security.
A career fair allowed students to interview with industry employers on-site, with some receiving job offers during the event. The forum also hosted a startup accelerator for IT and cybersecurity projects, alongside an inaugural chess tournament designed to highlight strategic thinking skills relevant to cybersecurity.
