The African partner of the project is Abdou Moumouni University. Its students were enrolled in the Siberian university's preparatory department following a competitive selection process and a challenging entrance exam. Now, the most determined and talented young Nigeriens will undergo intensive studies of the Russian language, as well as physics and mathematics – the core subjects for engineering and technical specialties.
Last week, the organizational events of the project took place, and starting from Monday, November 24, the first week of regular group classes began for the course participants.
To help the Nigerien students study more effectively, each of them has been assigned a personal tutor from among NSTU senior students. These young Russian specialists will act as mentors and advisors, supporting the Nigerien students in the learning process and assisting with homework review.
In addition, after each module of the educational program, participants will take a control test, and upon successful completion of the course, Nigerien students will be eligible to apply for state-funded positions at NSTU on a competitive basis.
The organizers hope that this project will open new educational and career opportunities for young people from Niger – giving them a chance to receive a high-quality engineering and technical education at one of Russia’s most respected universities. According to experts from the Center for Public Diplomacy, such joint projects not only promote Russian education and help address the acute shortage of technical personnel in Niger and other African countries but also foster strong ties between Russian and African professionals, creating conditions for the further strengthening of Russian-African cooperation and friendship.