21.04.2025
Austrian students studying Russian language and culture visited RSUH and discussed with RSUH students the specifics of the educational systems in Russia and Austria, shared the challenges and benefits of language learning, and personal stories that convinced them of the importance of strengthening interstate dialogue through student exchanges and cross-study of languages and cultures.
The discussion, conducted entirely in Russian without translation into German, was part of the roundtable "Russia–Austria: A View from the Younger Generation. Building Bridges of Understanding and New Perspectives".
The Austrian delegation consisted of participants from the "Austrian Holidays" program, and the Russian side included students and graduates from the program "Russia–Austria: History, Politics, Economics, Culture".
Vice-Rector Olga Pavlenko greeted the participants:
"We are very glad, our Austrian guests, that you are studying Russian language and literature, and RSUH students, that you study the history of Austria and Germany. The Russian language is a world in itself. Poet Marina Tsvetaeva said that the number of languages one knew equaled the number of souls one had. Through the Russian language, you can understand Russia, Russian literature, and the spiritual and moral values of our country, with its complex and often tragic history."
The event was organized by the Russia-Austria Public Forum "Sochi Dialogue".
Valentina Trufanova, Director of the RSUH Russian Language Center, spoke about the wide geography of countries from which students came to RSUH and the role of intercultural dialogue in foreign-language education.
Elena Guryanova, Senior Lecturer at the Institute of International Relations and Political Science, presented on opportunities for international students in Russia, focusing on cultural and linguistic adaptation and RSUH’s support programs.
Natalia Pakhomova, Deputy Director of RSUH’s Department of International Cooperation, shared information about the Association of International Students at RSUH, the mentorship program, and the student life at the University.
The participants from Austria gave presentations about Austrian student organizations and learning Russian through the works like those of Fyodor Dostoevsky.
At the conclusion, the participants agreed on the necessity of creating a Russian-Austrian youth club within the "Sochi Dialogue" framework to enhance mutual understanding and expand bilateral youth and student contacts.
