*Over 2,000 specialists benefit from Russian professional courses across five states

By Elizabeth Osayande & Ifunanya Ndigwe

RUDN University (the Patrice Lumumba Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia) has intensified its efforts to train Nigerians through its Centre for Continuing Professional Education at the Faculty of Philology. Since 2023, the university has organised training for Nigerian professionals in media, research, and teaching, equipping them with the practical skills necessary for their roles.

Elizaveta Telegina, the Vice Rector for Continuing Education at RUDN University, emphasised the significance of ongoing education amid technological advancements.

“The implementation of such projects underscores the importance of continuous learning as a vital tool for professional development in the context of constantly evolving work processes and the introduction of new technologies,” she stated. “Our continuing education programs in media communications primarily enhance the practical skills of Nigerian specialists by engaging them in real-world projects. Learning through these programs unites individuals from different cultures through knowledge and facilitates the sustainable development of countries via education, which aligns with the core mission of the Patrice Lumumba Peoples’ Friendship University.”

The project is spearheaded by Dr Mustapha Muhammed Jamiu, a Lecturer in the Department of Mass Communications. Under his guidance, the university has launched four training programs, including “Community Journalism in the Digital Age” and “Entrepreneurial Journalism for Young Media Founders and Media Content Creators.” These courses provide students with the contemporary tools and critical thinking skills essential for today’s world.

Kristina Abdus, the Director of the Centre for Continuing Professional Education, highlighted that the university has established a strong presence in Nigeria by collaborating with local organisations.

“As part of the educational project, we have signed four cooperation agreements with prominent Nigerian organisations: the Centre for Research on the Development of Media Management and Society in Africa (CEREDEMS Africa), the African Centre for Media and Intercultural Dialogue, Customer Service Awards Limited, and the Wakanda Media Foundation,” Abdus explained. RUDN’s partnerships with African organisations create favourable conditions for tailoring educational programs to local contexts, meeting labour market demands, and fostering sustainable connections between educational institutions and businesses in the region. This collaboration exemplifies the successful integration of academic potential with practical needs, contributing to Russia’s long-term strategic interests in Africa.”

In 2026, the university awarded additional scholarships for short courses in partnership with ten higher education institutions, including the University of Ilorin, Kaduna State University, Nasarawa State University, and Afe Babalola University. The training sessions took place in Kwara, Nasarawa, Abuja, Osun, and Ekiti states, reaching approximately 2,000 participants.

Dr Jamiu elaborated on this year’s focus on new global trends in the training sessions.

“This year’s training was organised in collaboration with ten partner higher institutions: the University of Ilorin, Kaduna State University, Nasarawa State University, Kwara State College of Arabic and Islamic Legal Studies, Fountain University, Kwara State University, Bingham University, Thomas Adewunmi University, Kwara State Polytechnic, and Afe Babalola University. The sessions occurred across five states—Kwara, Nasarawa, Abuja, Osun, and Ekiti—and attracted around 2,000 participants.”

In recognition of his impactful training initiatives, Kaduna State University and Thomas Adewunmi University, Oko Irese, presented awards to Dr Jamiu. The ongoing partnership continues to enhance training for young Africans and strengthen the ties between Russia and Nigeria.