Online Reporter
Raymond Jaravaza, [email protected]
A total of 189 Zimbabwean students have registered for free Russian language courses at the University of Zimbabwe (UZ), offered by Russia’s Centre for Open Education at St Petersburg University.
The programme runs from September 16 to November 9.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and promote cultural exchange between Zimbabwe and Russia, following the launch of the Russian-Language Open Education Centre in 2023.
Two Russian language experts — Tatiana Capustina and Mikhail Ageev — from St Petersburg University are in Zimbabwe, delivering four programmes aimed at helping students acquire proficiency in Russian as a foreign language.
The free courses are designed to improve learners’ competitiveness in the global job market.
Programme co-ordinator Zlata Andreeva said the courses are being conducted in person at the University of Zimbabwe in Harare.
“The study of the Russian language presents an excellent prospect for enhancing one’s competitiveness in the labour market, as well as a promising opportunity for those who aspire to pursue higher education in Russia in the future.
The classes started on 16 September,” said Andreeva.
Zimbabwe and Russia continue to build on their strong bilateral ties to promote the future development of cultural and educational exchanges between the two nations.
The programme began last year with 254 students.
Although the number of participants has decreased this year, organisers remain optimistic about the success of the courses, which range from a basic Russian language course for beginners to an intensive programme focusing on Russian culture.
“The programme is continuing this year and our teachers Tatiana and Mikhail are already in Harare. On 27 September, we will host a cultural event featuring a quiz on Russian culture and a sampling of Russian cuisine,” she said.
