BelSU Launches Cooperation with the University of Denis Sassou Nguesso in the Republic of Congo

Belgorod National Research University (BelSU) has taken a significant step in expanding its international cooperation by signing a partnership agreement with the University of Denis Sassou Nguesso in the Republic of Congo.

A delegation from BelSU, led by Vice-Rector for International Cooperation Vladislav Kuchmisty and Morabandza Koumou-Buya, a lecturer from the BelSU Institute of Earth Sciences, visited the University of Denis Sassou Nguesso for this purpose. Kuchmisty highlighted that BelSU has established over 70 partnership agreements with universities, research centres, and enterprises across 22 countries, with a particular focus on enhancing collaboration with educational and scientific organizations in Africa. During their visit, the cooperation agreement was signed by Professor Ange Antoine Abena, President of the partner university.

The leadership at the University of Denis Sassou Nguesso expressed a keen interest in collaborating with BelSU’s Institute of Earth Sciences. Koumou-Buya provided an in-depth overview of the institute’s infrastructure, scientific initiatives, and training programs. The discussions also covered academic mobility and opportunities for faculty members from the partner university to pursue postgraduate studies at BelSU, particularly those without academic degrees. Additionally, both parties explored potential collaborations at the research centre level. Dr. Ngouma Damass, Director of the Institute of Geographical and Environmental Sciences at the University of Denis Sassou Nguesso, expressed interest in partnering with BelSU’s Federal-Regional Centre for Aerospace and Ground Monitoring of Objects and Natural Resources, especially in light of their new training laboratory for GIS technologies, cartography, and cadastre. Professor Budzumut Florent, Coordinator of the School of Mining, Hydrology, and Energy, also showed interest in BelSU’s "Mine" training ground and carbon testing facility. Furthermore, the partner university aims to learn from BelSU’s experience in establishing a botanical garden.

To ensure effective cooperation and enhance the educational process, Vice-Rector Kuchmisty proposed organizing Russian language training for participants in the academic mobility program, suggesting a summer language school as one possible option.

Following the signing ceremony, participants discussed future prospects for collaboration. Ambassador Ilyas Iskandarov emphasized the importance of expanding student and scientific exchanges between Russia, Congo, and other African nations to train specialists aligned with the needs of national economies. Key areas of focus include geological exploration, biology, chemistry, and mining.