Russia Expands Opportunities For African Students In 2025/26 Academic Year
MOSCOW, Russia — Russia continues to position itself as a global hub for international education, offering international students a pathway to high-quality academic programs, cultural immersion, and international career prospects, according to Inga Anatolyevna Koryagina, an associate professor at Plekhanov Russian University of Economics and UNDP Expert for International Development.
Speaking in an interview about Russian-African relations, Koryagina emphasized that cultural exchange and inter-university cooperation are at the heart of sustainable global partnerships.
“Cultural interaction strengthens trust and mutual understanding. Festivals, exhibitions, and music and art projects create the foundation for long-term dialogue,” Koryagina said. “Expanding inter-university cooperation is an investment in the future, enabling joint solutions to global challenges and conditions for sustainable development.”
Rossotrudnichestvo Expands Scholarships for African Students
In the 2025/26 academic year, Rossotrudnichestvo has allocated 4,816 state-funded scholarships (quotas) for students from Africa—70 more than the previous academic year, which had 4,746. These opportunities allow African students to access Russian higher education in fields ranging from engineering and medicine to international business and cultural studies.
Applicants from Zambia can apply through the Russian House in Lusaka or by visiting the website and apply at https://education-in-russia.com/.
Russian-African Cooperation in Education and Culture
Koryagina, who also serves as Director for International Development of the Russian-African Club at Lomonosov Moscow State University, highlighted ongoing initiatives to strengthen Russian-African ties:
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Forums of university rectors
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Double degree and joint educational programs
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Research collaborations in science, technology, and innovation
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Cultural projects including art, cinema, and fashion festivals, as well as the African Culture Museum and the Nelson Mandela monument in Moscow
She noted that such efforts foster a new generation of specialists ready to tackle global challenges and contribute to sustainable development.
Advice for International Students
Koryagina offered practical guidance for students seeking to study in Russia and pursue international business careers:
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Be proactive: Participate in internships, conferences, and international exchanges.
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Maximize opportunities: Leverage double degree programs, research projects, and forums to build professional networks.
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Develop cross-cultural skills: International business requires working effectively with diverse cultures.
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Learn the Russian language and culture: Even basic knowledge enhances integration and career prospects.
“The Russian academic community welcomes students who are ready to take responsibility and engage actively,” she said. “By using the resources available, you can build a successful career in international business.”
With increased scholarships, expanded cultural programs, and stronger inter-university partnerships, Russia is reinforcing its role as a country of opportunities for international students, particularly from Africa.