Magadan Polytechnic College May Honor a Gold Mining Legend's Legacy
A campaign has launched to rename the Magadan Polytechnic College in honour of Vladimir Kirillovich Khristov, a key figure in Russia’s gold mining sector. The proposal, backed by local mining firms and the Mining Council, seeks to recognise his decades-long contributions to Kolyma’s industry and education. Vladimir Kirillovich Khristov (1949–2020) led Susumanzoloto for nearly 40 years, turning it into one of Russia’s top gold producers. Under his direction, the company extracted over five tons of gold annually and employed around 3,000 workers. He also served four terms in the Magadan Regional Duma, shaping policies for the region’s mining growth.
The Mining Council, headed by Anatoly Shirokov, is now collecting public opinions on the renaming initiative. Residents can share their views on the Magadan Regional Duma’s official website under the 'Mining Council' section. If support grows, a formal request will be sent to the Governor of Magadan Oblast. Khristov’s legacy extends to education, as many graduates of the Magadan Polytechnic College went on to work in Kolyma’s gold mines. Naming the institution after him would highlight the link between vocational training and the region’s leading industry.
The proposal reflects Khristov’s lasting impact on both mining and education in Magadan. If approved, the renamed college would serve as a tribute to his work while reinforcing ties between local training programmes and the gold sector. The final decision rests with the Governor’s office after public consultation closes.
