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Russia's lone VOIN Center shapes 9,500 cadets in patriotic push

A single center in Sverdlovsk is molding Russia's next generation—through discipline, badges, and a mission rooted in sacrifice. What's behind its growing impact?

The image shows a Russian military badge with a red star on it. The badge is in the center of the...
The image shows a Russian military badge with a red star on it. The badge is in the center of the image and has text written around it.

Russia's lone VOIN Center shapes 9,500 cadets in patriotic push

The Sverdlovsk branch of the VOIN Center opened in May 2023 as part of a national push to strengthen patriotic education. Over three years, more than 9,500 cadets have completed its training programmes. So far, it remains the only operational centre of its kind in Russia. The facility was named after Vladislav Rakhmanov, a tactical medicine instructor killed in action. His legacy now ties into the centre's mission of fostering discipline and personal growth among young people.

The initiative first took shape in the Sverdlovsk region, chosen as a pilot location. Since then, it has produced measurable results, with 420 cadets earning distinction badges—330 as cadet-fighters and 90 as cadet-guards. These honours require dedication, self-improvement, and a strong sense of responsibility.

In 2025, Dmitry Shevchenko, the centre's director, rolled out a structured system for cadet development. His approach focuses on building character alongside physical and tactical skills. Recently, Shevchenko and presidential envoy Artem Zhoga awarded 15 more cadets with badges, recognising their achievements.

Zhoga also highlighted the trainees' high standards, noting their readiness for public service. He singled out their active involvement in regional initiatives as proof of the programme's impact. The VOIN Center continues to operate exclusively in Sverdlovsk, with no reports of further branches opening elsewhere. Its cadets have already demonstrated their training through public engagement and badge qualifications. The model aligns with broader efforts to expand patriotic education across Russia.

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