TSPU Joins «Russia – Islamic World» Forum in Kazan
The XVI International Economic Forum «Russia – Islamic World» brought together over 8,500 participants from 96 countries. The forum, supported by the Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation, remains one of the key platforms for strengthening economic and cultural ties between Russia and Islamic countries. Vadim Zyubanov, Head of the International Cooperation Office of the Institute of Foreign Languages and International Cooperation, presented the Tomsk State Pedagogical University at the event.
This year’s forum featured 21 topics including education, international cooperation, media, youth diplomacy, culture, economy, medicine, and tourism. As part of the education-focused agenda, the Ministry of Education and Chechen State Pedagogical University hosted a panel discussion titled «Russia and the Islamic World: Humanitarian Bridges of Cooperation» The panel addressed current issues and opportunities for educational collaboration between Russia and the Islamic world, with special attention to the role of the Russian language in building strong international connections.
The event was opened by Deputy Minister of Education of the Russian Federation Andrey Korneev. In his speech, he highlighted the deep cultural integration of Muslim communities in Russia:
«Russia is home to a significant Muslim population whose traditions are an integral part of our national identity. It is important that the humanitarian dimensions of cooperation—science, culture, arts, and education—continue to unite us, break down stereotypes, and form the foundation for long-term collaboration».
The session gathered educators from Russia’s pedagogical universities overseen by the Ministry of Education. Participants shared practical insights into building international academic partnerships, implementing academic exchange programs, and promoting Russian language education abroad.
Particular emphasis was placed on the work of Russian Language and Open Education Centers, which have been established by Russian pedagogical universities in many countries, including those in the Islamic world. The Tomsk State Pedagogical University, for example, launched its center in Nairobi, Kenya in 2023. Over the past two years, more than 600 Kenyan citizens have completed Russian language courses, and the university has hosted Russian Language and Culture Days for the local community.
«During the discussion, practical aspects of developing Open Education Centers operating in various countries, including those in the Islamic world, were addressed. Our university’s center is located in Kenya, where Islam is the second-largest religion, practiced by over 10% of the population. This highlights the importance of taking cultural and religious characteristics into account when implementing educational programs, — said Vadim Zyubanov.— It was noted that the sustainable development of such centers requires close collaboration with local communities. This includes engaging and supporting local teachers, creating opportunities for their professional development through internships and training in Russia, as well as producing educational materials that reflect the cultural specifics and needs of students in each particular country».
Tomsk State Pedagogical University is actively engaged in the mentioned areas. In 2024, TSPU specialists developed a teaching and learning package in Russian as a foreign language, designed for elementary-level learners and specifically tailored for Kenyan students. This year, the work will continue with the development of the next level of the course, ensuring continuity and sustainability of the educational process.
In addition, the strong academic performance of Kenyan students—some of whom have already received quotas to study at universities in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Belgorod—has led the Russian Ministry of Education to designate TSPU as a coordinating university for promoting the Russian language in other countries around the world. Activities in this new direction will begin in the near future.