What began as a humble department has transformed into the renowned ITMO University. We stand before a place of innovation. A place of academic excellence.
ITMO University’s story began in 1900. It started as a Mechanics, Optics and Watchmaking Department. This was within the Prince Nicholas Vocational School. Back then, it was the sole school in the Russian Empire. The school trained specialists in these specific areas.
In 1917, the department gained independence. It became the Petrograd Technical College for Mechanics, Optics and Watchmaking. By 1920, most classes evolved. They turned into the Petrograd College for Fine Mechanics and Optics. The college later became Leningrad.
During those early years, the college’s facilities were quite productive. They manufactured various complex optical and fine mechanics products. ITMO University produced the first group of instrument engineers in the USSR in 1931.
The 1930s brought more change. The college was reorganized. It became the Leningrad Training Center. By 1933, it achieved status as a separate college. It was named the Leningrad Institute of Fine Mechanics and Optics or LIFMO. Its first research laboratory focused on optical glass technologies. This research helped the USSR to become independent. It no longer needed to import expensive foreign abrasives.
Notably, in 1937, ITMO opened a pioneering laboratory. This lab focused on calculating machinery. It later transformed into a department. This was the Department of Mathematical and Computing Devices. By 1939, it was a leading department. It focused on electromechanical computing devices and control systems. By 1940, ITMO boasted over 1,400 students. It also had a staff of 27 professors. There were 80 associated professors and PhDs.
The Second World War significantly impacted ITMO University. Many students and staff joined the war effort. Some went to the front lines. Others joined the People’s Militia. Classes continued even during these challenging times. In late 1942, students and instructors were evacuated. They relocated to Cherapanovo near Novosibirsk.
During the Siege of Leningrad, ITMO continued operations. It ran a military repair facility for the Leningrad front. ITMO produced essential instruments. These instruments were used for the army and navy. The facility developed improved optical sights. It also fixed artillery binoculars and gun panoramas. They also developed anti-aircraft sighting telescopes and periscopes.
After the Siege lifted, ITMO University was re-established in Leningrad. Classes resumed in October 1944. Post-war, ITMO experienced rapid development. A new faculty opened in 1945. It was called Electrical Instrumentation. It soon became Radio Engineering. The Department of Quantum Radio Electronics emerged. It trained specialists in this emerging field.
Researchers at ITMO designed the first calculating machine LITMO-1 in 1958. A laboratory for laser technologies opened in the 1960s. The main campus building on Sablinskaya Street was constructed in the 1970s.
In 1992, LIFMO became the Saint Petersburg Institute of Fine Mechanics and Optics. University status followed in 1994. The Faculty of Computer Technologies and Controls opened that same year. ITMO played a key role in developing RUNNET. This is an IP network that connects research and education centers in Russia.
In 2003, the institute was renamed. It became Saint Petersburg State University of Information Technologies, Mechanics and Optics. Since 2014, the university has been known as ITMO University.
Today, ITMO University has a multi-level education system. It includes bachelor, specialist, master, and postgraduate programs. The university has partnerships with universities worldwide. This includes Germany, the Netherlands, and Finland.
ITMO University stands as a testament. It is a testament to Russia’s dedication to technological advancement. From its humble beginnings to its current status, it remains a vital institution. It shapes the future of IT. It shapes the future of mechanics and optics.