First batch of 117 Pakistani students successfully complete Russian language course at AIOU

Islamabad - (Adnan Hameed): Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) has taken a significant stride in fostering Pakistan-Russia relations by equipping a group of 117 Pakistani students with Russian language proficiency. This landmark achievement was celebrated at a prestigious ceremony held at the AIOU campus, featuring esteemed dignitaries and academics. His Excellency Mr. Danila Ganich, the Ambassador of Russia to Pakistan, graced the event with his presence and praised the initiative of teaching foreign languages at AIOU. He underscored that imparting the Russian language to Pakistani students will contribute to the enhancement of diplomatic ties between the two nations. Expressing his astonishment at the students' ability to acquire Russian language skills in a mere three-month period, Ambassador Ganich lauded the abundant talent within the Pakistani populace. In his address, the Vice Chancellor of AIOU, Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood, highlighted the pivotal role of foreign language acquisition in opening up superior educational and employment prospects for students on the international stage. He commended the dedicated efforts of the Russian Language and Culture Center at AIOU in successfully delivering the Russian language course, recognizing the immense challenges associated with teaching languages. Dr. Nasir encouraged the students to become ambassadors of goodwill and utilize their linguistic abilities to strengthen the bond between Pakistan and Russia. The Russian Language and Culture Center for Pakistan, a collaborative endeavor between Allama Iqbal Open University and Ural State Pedagogical University (USPU) of Russia, has been instrumental in offering a comprehensive three-month Russian language course. The inaugural batch, comprising 117 students, successfully completed this rigorous program, marking a momentous achievement in promoting linguistic and cultural exchange. Notable Russian language instructors, Dr. Roman Porozov and Dr. Zavialova Natalia, along with the Deans of the Faculty of Sciences, Prof. Dr. Irshad Ahmad Arshad, and the Faculty of Arabic and Islamic Studies, Dr. Shah Mohyuddin Hashmi, graced the ceremony with their presence, showcasing the collaborative efforts that made this achievement possible. The event was further enriched with recorded messages from prominent figures, including Deputy Minister of Education of the Russian Federation, Dr. Berg, and the Rector of Ural State Pedagogical University (USPU) Russia, Prof. Svetlana A. Miniurova. Both dignitaries expressed their deep appreciation for AIOU's pioneering initiative in offering the Russian language course and emphasized how this effort will bridge the gap between the people of both nations. As a symbol of their newly acquired linguistic prowess, the students presented various tableaus in the Russian language, adding a cultural dimension to this momentous occasion. AIOU continues to champion the cause of language education and cultural exchange, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening international ties and fostering mutual understanding.