Roman Kostyunichev: "A new generation is growing up in the Nizhny Novgorod Oblast — participants in the special military operation can serve as an example for this generation."

      August 14, 2025 10:09

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      "Heroes. Nizhny Novgorod Region" program creates every opportunity for veterans of the special military operation to become a support for the future of our region after their service. A new generation is growing up and needs worthy examples, and participants of the special military operation, those who have proven their devotion to the Motherland on the front lines, can serve as examples for it in civilian life," said veteran of the special military operation and program participant Roman Kostyunichev.

      Roman has more than 20 years of service in the internal affairs agencies, with deployments to the North Caucasus and to the special military operation zone. He decided to take part in the program guided by his life principles.

      "Since childhood my grandparents used to say: to achieve something in life you must study and work hard. So, as soon as the President of Russia announced the launch of the 'Time of Heroes' program, I immediately decided to take part in it and completed remote training. Without hesitation, I also registered for the regional program," Roman Kostyunichev said.

      Within the program he plans to develop strategic thinking and managerial skills, learn the intricacies of state and municipal service, and also gain additional experience working in a team. Upon completion of the training he would like to work with young people and the veteran community as a project organizer or mentor.

      "I already give lessons in courage at schools and participate in the civic life of the city. Thanks to the program I want to operate at a systemic level: create projects that bring people together, help veterans adapt, and run career-guidance events. I see myself as part of a team that changes the surrounding environment not in words but in deeds. And if my experience, knowledge and character prove useful for the benefit of the region, then the program will not have been in vain for me," emphasized Roman Kostyunichev.

      Roman is currently actively involved in kettlebell sport, and by May 9, 2025 he had published his own book titled "I Serve the Law – I Serve the People."

      Recall that the "Heroes. Nizhny Novgorod Region" program is aimed at integrating and employing participants and veterans of the special military operation within the system of public administration. In March 2025 an agreement was signed between the government of the Nizhny Novgorod Region, RANEPA and KUPNO on cooperation for the implementation of this program.

      Registration for participation in the "Heroes. Nizhny Novgorod Region" program closed on March 31. During the selection campaign, 1,613 applications were received from Nizhny Novgorod residents.

      Based on the total scores from questionnaires, testing, online interviews and assessment centers, as well as the results of in-person interviews with the Deputy Governor of the Nizhny Novgorod Region Andrey Gneushev, 60 participants were selected for the main educational program and 30 people were chosen for inclusion in the next cohort upon their return to the region.

      On August 4, 2025, the official opening of the "Heroes. Nizhny Novgorod Region" training took place, with Governor of the Nizhny Novgorod Region Gleb Nikitin taking part in the ceremony. Sixty people selected to participate in the educational program began their training.

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