Derzhavin University held an opening ceremony of the festival “Days of National Cultures.” This spectacular show not only united students, teachers, and guests of the university, but also created an atmosphere of cultural diversity, friendship, and common interests.
The main theme of the festival was a trip around the world on the international airplane “DerzhavinSky.” From the very beginning, the participants immersed themselves in an atmosphere of flight. “Flight attendants” welcomed all the guests on board, and “the Captain of the aircraft” turned out to be the host of the festival.
Elena Zueva, the vice-rector of the International Affairs Department at Derzhavin University, welcomed the guests and participants of the event. Addressing the students, she noted that the festival opens up new dimensions of friendship between different cultures and that its creative atmosphere fosters the development of talent and unification of young people.
The route of the plane went over India, China, Africa, the countries of Central Asia, and Russia as its final destination. At each stop, “the passengers” contemplated the students performing various musical numbers and getting a better acquaintance with the cultures of different nations.
“This is my third year at Derzhavin University, and I've made friends from all over the world. We get on very well and often hang out together. We love being in the city centre, where you can see beautiful streets, parks, and architecture. There you can experience the city’s vibe. The university hosts many activities, including creative and sport events. I sing in Arabic at “the Days of National Cultures.” I hope my work will be appreciated,” says Mohammed Shamas (Lebanon), a student at the Institute of Medicine and Health Promotion at Derzhavin University. “After graduating, I plan to work in healthcare in my country. Being a doctor is prestigious in my home country, and I’m determined to learn the basics of this profession in Russia.”
Special attention was given to the educational value of the festival. “Days of National Cultures” is not just one celebration, but a series of events dedicated to a different country or culture every month. The program promises to be intense, featuring concerts, workshops, interactive spaces, presentations, and meetings with representatives of national diasporas and international students. This format will demonstrate the widness of folk traditions, highlighting their diversity and engaging participants in vibrant intercultural interaction. In the end, all participants will enjoy a large-scale gala concert timed to the celebration of International Culture Day in April 2026.
“I’m studying economics at Derzhavin University. I like the friendly atmosphere at TSU—the professors and senior students helped me easily adapt to Russia,” said Denise Kapama (Republic of Congo). “After graduating, I plan to return to Central Africa and work for a major retail chain. I’m confident that the knowledge I gained at the university will help me to bring my dream to life.”
The first day of the festival concluded with a grand dance of friendship. The hit “Mother Earth” captivated young people of various nationalities. Students enthusiastically imitated the dance moves and sang along in Russian.
The opening of the festival was a significant event in the life of Derzhavin University, underscoring its desire to develop international cooperation and foster an atmosphere of respect for the cultural differences of students from different countries.
