Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) has launched the 9th batch of its three-month Russian Language Courses, offering both Level 1 and Level 2 classes. More than 30 students have enrolled in the current batch.

The courses are being conducted by a qualified Russian language instructor and aim to promote Russian language learning, cultural understanding, and academic cooperation between Pakistan and the Russian Federation.

On the occasion, it was highlighted that the Vice Chancellor of AIOU, Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood, has consistently championed international collaboration and cultural exchange.

During his tenure, AIOU has established four international language and cultural centers, including Russian, Turkish, Japanese, and Chinese Language and Cultural Centers. Participants were also informed that the University is planning to establish German and French Language Centers in the near future.

These initiatives provide students with valuable opportunities to acquire foreign language skills, enhance intercultural competencies, and improve their academic and professional prospects at both national and international levels.

Mr. Gleb Shubin, Culture, Science, and Education Attaché at the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Islamabad, inaugurated the course and reaffirmed the Embassy’s continued commitment to strengthening educational and cultural cooperation between Pakistan and Russia.

In his address, he emphasized the growing importance of the Russian language in academic, cultural, and professional spheres. He also highlighted Russia’s rich history, culture, and educational opportunities, encouraging students to make the most of the learning experience offered through the program.

Mr. Shubin extended his best wishes to all participants for a successful and enriching journey in learning the Russian language and exploring Russian culture.

Ms. Ekaterina Andriets, the Russian language instructor at AIOU, shared her positive experience of teaching at the University. She appreciated the supportive academic environment and described AIOU as a welcoming institution that actively promotes internationalization and cross-cultural engagement.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Zahid Majeed, Director of the International Collaboration and Exchange Office, informed participants that graduates of previous Russian language course batches had successfully secured scholarships, admissions, and professional opportunities in Russian universities and organizations.

He expressed his sincere gratitude to the Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation for its continued collaboration and support in promoting the Russian language and culture in Pakistan through the Russian Open Education Center established at AIOU.

Dr. Zahid also thanked H.E. the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Pakistan and Mr. Gleb Shubin for their unwavering support and cooperation in organizing educational, cultural, and academic activities under the Russian Open Education Center.

He encouraged students to remain dedicated to their studies and to utilize the course as a gateway to international academic exchange, scholarships, and career development opportunities.

The Russian Language Courses at AIOU continue to serve as an important platform for fostering intercultural understanding, strengthening educational partnerships, and promoting people-to-people connections between Pakistan and Russia.

Through such initiatives, AIOU remains committed to preparing its students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected and multilingual world.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China