The Arctic State University of Arts, Culture and Creative Industries (AGUIKKI) in Yakutia is launching a new educational program in game design starting September 2026. According to Mark Davydov, a lecturer at the Department of Design, who spoke to TASS, 35 paid spots have been allocated for the four-year course. The program was created in collaboration with the republican IT Park, where students will complete internships.
The training is structured around the full production cycle: from concept art development to the implementation of a complete project. Each graduate will accumulate a portfolio and receive a finished product, which will allow them to find employment in local companies, start their own business, or work remotely for international studios. The program is a continuation of the previously launched specialization "Digital Graphic Design and Animation," which was decided to be split into separate specializations due to the high student flow.
The region is already forming a video game development market: the local publisher "Novaya Igra+" (New Game+), created with the support of the Republic's Innovation Development Fund, is preparing two releases. The emergence of its own talent forge completes the ecosystem – from education to production, reducing talent outflow and creating a foundation for the region's creative economy.
