Russian Language Summer School successfully completed at Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno

From August 3 to 21, 2026, the Russian Language Summer School was held on the basis of the Faculty of Philology of Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno. Its participants were students from Xinjiang Normal University (China) and a representative from Germany. The organizer was the Department of Russian Philology, which prepared an intensive and diverse programme for the guests.

Over three weeks, the participants completed 60 academic hours of Russian language – daily four-hour classes helped them make significant progress in learning grammar, vocabulary and conversational speech. Additionally, each participant could choose one of three 10-hour special courses: "Karaoke in Russian," "Linguistic and Cultural Studies," or "Business Russian."

The educational part was harmoniously complemented by cultural and educational activities. A series of lectures on the history and culture of Belarus were organized for the guests, daily language practice with Belarusian students was arranged, as well as master classes on national cuisine and making traditional souvenirs. Bright highlights of the programme were excursions around Grodno, the Grodno region and other iconic places of the country. The participants deepened their language skills and also gained a unique opportunity to get to know Belarusian traditions, everyday life and hospitality more closely.

The closing ceremony of the Russian Language Summer School was held in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs Liavontsi Paulau addressed the participants with words of gratitude. He thanked the students for choosing YKSUG and noted that over three weeks of study they had a unique opportunity not only to significantly improve their language competencies, but also to get to know the rich culture, unique traditions of Belarus and the centuries-old history of Grodno.

The event acquired special significance because six out of seven school participants represent Xinjiang Normal University (China) – a long-standing and reliable partner of YKSUG. Liavontsi Paulau emphasised that the development of this cooperation has become an important stage in the university's international activities. The Vice-Rector also warmly welcomed the guest from Germany and expressed hope that she would return home with the brightest impressions and would definitely tell her friends and fellow students about the weeks spent at the school.

In his speech, Liavontsi Paulau particularly noted the enormous contribution of teachers and volunteers who put their hearts into the organization and running of the school and made it truly unforgettable. Concluding the ceremony, the Vice-Rector congratulated everyone on the successful completion of the course and invited the graduates to the document presentation.

Following the school, each participant was awarded a certificate of course completion.

The participants themselves also shared their sincere emotions upon completing the course. Li Jia Xin admitted that studying in Grodno was a real discovery for her: "I really like this beautiful old city. There are many sights and beautiful parks here. At the university, teachers explain grammar clearly. At first, it was difficult for me to speak Russian, but now I feel that my language skills are improving quickly. In class, we read texts and did exercises. I am very glad that I came here. This trip gave me a lot of new knowledge and vivid impressions. I will remember my studies here for a long time."

Zhang Ruijin also shared her bright and unforgettable impressions: "I really liked the Russian Language Summer School in Belarus. All the teachers were kind and patient. In class, we learned Russian; the lessons were always interesting and useful. We sang karaoke, made new friends, travelled a lot and spent time together. I got a lot of joy. My impressions of the Summer School remain the warmest."

These sincere words became the best confirmation that the Russian Language Summer School at YKSUG was a success: it not only fulfilled its educational objectives but also gave the participants friendship, new discoveries and sincere love for Belarus.