In a significant step towards strengthening cultural and educational ties between India and Russia, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) hosted the official opening of the Second Professional Education Programme in Russian Language, Literature, and Culture. This initiative was collaboratively organised by the JNU Centre for Russian Studies (CRS) and the Minin University of Nizhny Novgorod, marking another milestone in bilateral academic cooperation. The ceremony witnessed the presence of esteemed representatives from both institutions. Prof. Richa Sawant, Chairperson of the Centre for Russian Studies at JNU, and Prof. Viktor Sdobnyakov, Rector of Minin University, delivered welcome addresses, with Prof. Sdobnyakov addressing the gathering online. Both dignitaries underscored the importance of cross-cultural dialogue and collaboration in higher education. Prof. Sdobnyakov also introduced the Russian teaching faculty involved in this year’s programme to the JNU students.

In attendance were special guests, Ulia Aryaeva, Counsellor at the Russian Embassy in India, and Elena Remizova, Head of the Russian House in New Delhi. Both lauded the programme’s continued success and emphasised its role in fostering greater understanding between the two nations. The two-week programme is designed to immerse students in various aspects of Russian culture and linguistics. The curriculum includes engaging sessions on diverse topics such as “Travelling Around Russia with Russian Writers,” “Russia’s Many Faces,” “Everything Hidden Revealed” (Russian language metaphors), and “Politeness Strategies in Russian-Speaking Culture.” These modules aim to deepen the participants’ comprehension of Russian literary and cultural nuances while enhancing their language proficiency. This collaboration between JNU and Minin University demonstrates the enduring partnership between Indian and Russian academic institutions, with the programme set to provide invaluable insights for students and further cement the cultural bridge between the two nations.