ISLAMABAD, APR 18 (DNA): Iqbal Open University (AIOU), in collaboration with the Center for International Cooperation, Ministry of Education of Russian Federation, and the Russian Embassy in Islamabad has launched Russian Language Course for Beginners at its main campus in Islamabad.
The initiative received an overwhelming response, with more than 350 applications submitted by individuals from diverse backgrounds — including students planning to pursue education in Russia, businessmen, politicians, journalists, housewives, professionals, and IT experts. After a careful selection process, 60 candidates were enrolled for this three-month, face-to-face course.
The course instructor, Ms. Ekaterina Andriets, has been nominated by the Ministry of Education, Russian Federation. With extensive experience in teaching the Russian language and culture, she is guiding participants through the A1-level curriculum. Classes are scheduled three days a week, with three-hour sessions each day.
An inaugural ceremony was held at AIOU to formally launch the program. Ms. Alina Kolesnikova and Mr. Philip Smolyakov diplomats from the Russian Embassy in Islamabad graced the event as Guests of Honor, while Prof. Dr. Syed Amir Shah, Director Administration & Coordination, was the Chief Guest.
Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Alina Kolesnikova highlighted the growing friendship and partnership between Pakistan and Russia, underlining the recent increase in high-level political, trade, educational, and cultural exchanges. She said that the Russian Embassy is committed to supporting AIOU not only in conducting Russian language courses but also in promoting cultural activities such as film screenings, poetry sessions, literature circles, and sports events.
Mr. Philip Smolyakov, impressively addressing the audience in Urdu, emphasized his personal interest in strengthening the relationship between Russia and Pakistan.
He expressed the Embassy’s full support for all initiatives aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation.
In his address, Prof. Dr. Syed Amir Shah shared his personal connection with the program, revealing that he was a student of the first Russian Language Course offered at AIOU in 2023.
Delivering parts of his speech in both Russian and English, he commended Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood, Vice Chancellor AIOU, for his commitment to fostering international collaborations. Dr. Shah also mentioned that AIOU has already established partnerships with several universities in Russia, and the University plans to expand Russian language offerings and cultural activities in the future.
Dr. Zahid Majeed, Director International Collaboration & Exchange at AIOU, briefed the audience on the background of AIOU’s partnership with Russian universities and the Russian Ministry of Education.
He said that in 2023, AIOU established the Russian Language and Culture Center, inaugurated by the Russian Ambassador to Pakistan.
Dr. Majeed further shared that, under the direction of the Vice Chancellor, AIOU is planning faculty and student exchange programs with Russian universities, as well as joint research opportunities and professional dialogue forums to connect Pakistani and Russian businessmen and professionals.
Given the growing interest, AIOU also plans to offer Russian language courses through its regional campuses and via online learning platforms, especially to accommodate participants from Punjab and Balochistan who are unable to attend face-to-face classes.
: Iqbal Open University (AIOU), in collaboration with the Center for International Cooperation, Ministry of Education){kind=link}