Icu Strengthens Global Academic Ties With Russian Language And Cultural Exchange Program
Lusaka, Zambia – The Information and Communications University (ICU) is strengthening Zambia’s academic and cultural links with Russia through a dynamic partnership that brings Russian language and cultural education to Lusaka.
Speaking on Academia Talk at One Love Radio, Dr. Kelvin Chibomba, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovations, emphasized ICU’s commitment to global collaboration. He noted the establishment of the Russian Language and Cultural Centre at ICU in partnership with Saint Petersburg State University as a milestone for both students and the wider Zambian community.
“This initiative reflects ICU’s mission to pioneer innovation, research, and international cooperation,” Dr. Chibomba said. “We are opening doors for Zambians to access world-class opportunities, from learning new languages to engaging in meaningful academic exchanges.”
The university recently welcomed Dr. Artem Davydov, Associate Professor of Linguistics from Saint Petersburg State University, who is in Zambia under a staff exchange program. With decades of research experience in African languages and Russian language teaching, Dr. Davydov’s immediate goal is to introduce at least 200 Zambians to basic Russian.
Beyond teaching, the partnership is expanding further. ICU has confirmed the upcoming visit of three distinguished lecturers from Volgograd State Socio-Pedagogical University — Marina Poliakova, Liudmila Kalmykova, and Elena Sorokina. They will be in Zambia from August 31 to September 27, 2025, conducting Russian language classes, methodological training sessions, and cultural exchange activities.
“ICU is fully committed to providing the facilities, logistical support, and academic environment to ensure the success of these programs,” Dr. Chibomba affirmed. “This is part of our broader vision to make ICU a hub for international research and innovation in Africa.”
The partnership builds on a Memorandum of Understanding signed between ICU and Russian universities, enabling staff exchanges, joint research projects, and curriculum development. It also reflects the long-standing friendship between Russia and Africa, with Russia recognized for its supportive role in liberation struggles and development cooperation.
With students drawn from across Africa — including Malawi, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Botswana — ICU continues to position itself as a leader in education, research, and global cultural exchange.