Islamabad, 22 August 203 (TDI): A remarkable partnership between Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) and Urals State Pedagogical University (USPU) of Russia has paved the way for a significant educational initiative in Pakistan by inaugurating the 1st Russian Centre for Open Education in Islamabad.
The recent inauguration of a specialized learning centre at AIOU marks a new chapter in the relationship between Russia and Pakistan.
The success of an online Russian language course introduced in May 2023 by AIOU and USPU, which saw an overwhelming response with more than 12,000 individuals from Pakistan expressing their interest and registering for the courses, laid the foundation for a larger endeavour.
Building upon the momentum generated by the language course, the two institutions jointly inaugurated a dedicated centre that focuses on the study of the Russian language and culture.
The creators of the centre have already received over 300 training applications, reflecting the strong enthusiasm for cultural exchange and learning in Pakistan.
During the centre’s inauguration ceremony at AIOU, Svetlana Minyurova, the rector of USPU, highlighted the significance of collaborative steps in nurturing amicable relations between Russia and Pakistan.
She expressed her pride in establishing a centre that unveils the history and culture of the Russian Federation to the people of Islamabad, emphasizing the mutual learning opportunities between the nations.
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Russian Ambassador to Pakistan, Danila Ganich, echoed Minyurova’s sentiments, heralding the opening of the centre as the commencement of a journey towards a close partnership and educational collaboration between the two countries.
AIOU Vice Chancellor Nasir Mahmood also expressed his appreciation for the Russian side’s efforts, which have provided the impetus for further growth.
He cited the event’s significance in light of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Andrey Besedin, Chairman of the Urals Chamber of Commerce and Industry, added another layer to the collaborative efforts.
He noted the amplified interest of Russian entrepreneurs in Pakistan, underlining the development of the Open Education Center as a notable stride in strengthening relations between the two countries.
The cooperation between AIOU and USPU also materialized in the form of an online round-table conference on ‘Educational Systems of Russia and Pakistan: Possibilities and Opportunities.’
This platform, led by AIOU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr Nasir Mahmood, underscored AIOU’s commitment to expanding relationships with international universities, including those in Russia.
