International Students at BelSU Explore New Year Stereotypes

The multicultural event, held at the Peoples’ Friendship Centre, was organized by the International Information Centre, the Nikolay Strakhov Scientific Library, the Coordination Center of VPITIPE, and the Belgorod State Universal Scientific Library.

New Year and Christmas are among the most cherished and eagerly awaited holidays not only in Russia but across the globe. Students from various countries – including Azerbaijan, Afghanistan, Burkina Faso, Egypt, Jordan, China, Colombia, Morocco, Namibia, Nigeria, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Ecuador, and Equatorial Guinea – gathered to explore diverse traditions and customs while challenging common stereotypes.

In her welcoming address, Margarita Varfolomeeva, Acting Director of the Coordination Centre of VPITIPE, emphasized the importance of understanding and respecting the cultures, traditions, religions, and languages of different peoples. Olga Lyutova, Director of the International Information Centre, highlighted that many stereotypes are misleading and hinder a true appreciation of foreign customs. The “PilgrimPRO” series aims to dispel such misconceptions.

Participants learned about when, how, and where New Year and Christmas are celebrated around the world. Additionally, an exhibition of BelSU periodicals at the Nikolay Strakhov Scientific Library focused on this theme. Ivan Govorishchev, a staff member of the Scientific Library, delivered a presentation on Christmas characters from various countries, sharing intriguing stories about each one.

‘I always make the ‘Olivier’ salad, which we call ‘Russian.’ I was surprised to learn that in Russia the traditional recipe includes pickles and green peas. Now I understand why I enjoy this salad more here,’ said Segovia Penafiel Alison Stefani from Ecuador.

Following the presentations, students participated in a “True or False” game to test their knowledge about New Year and Christmas celebrations. This interactive part was led by Olga Lyutova and Daria Kovalenko, a staff member of the Scientific Library. To conclude the event, Ded Moroz (Father Frost) and Snegurochka (Snow Maiden) made a surprise appearance with prizes and gifts for the most engaged participants in the educational game.