The Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Vice chancellors, Vathiswa Papu, Caiphus Chuene Motadi, Revolution Bafana Manganyi, Kedisaletse Mahlangu department heads, and representatives from the Russian Embassy held a meeting on March 4th, 2025, at the Pretoria main campus. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss potential collaboration between the two institutions, with a focus on exploring opportunities for cooperation across various academic fields. The embassy’s delegation included Marina Rekets and Andrew Salnikov, who served as interpreters.
Deputy Vice Chancellor of Research, Innovation, and Engagement, Dr. Vathi Faps Tomxaka highlighted the importance of the meeting, explaining that both parties would share their respective activities and initiatives. The goal was to identify potential areas for academic exchange and collaboration based on shared interests.
Elena Tumavoka, Advisor to the Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, shared insights into popular academic programs in Russia, particularly in engineering and technology fields. These programs offer bursaries covering most student needs, providing opportunities for networking and further academic development. Tumavoka also mentioned the country’s policy science program, which includes a two-week program, as well as a summer program open to students of humanities with bursary support.
The Russian delegation introduced the Summer Institute program, inviting young researchers to engage with the program. This initiative spans two years and is offered on a global scale, providing valuable research opportunities.
Revolutionary Bafana Manganyi, from TUT’s Office of Internationalisation, expressed enthusiasm about the growing relationship between the two institutions. With both sides optimistic about the potential for a strong bilateral cooperation, with numerous opportunities to explore in the future. He remarked that while the two parties have had prior engagements through embassy meetings, it was now exciting to welcome the Russian delegation to the university in person.
