BelSU–Dezhou Cooperation Deepens Across Teaching, Research, and Cultural Exchange

The Institute of Pharmacy, Chemistry, and Biology at Belgorod National Research University (BelSU) is deepening its international partnership with Dezhou University in China, delivering a packed programme of lectures, laboratory work, research presentations – and even a cookery masterclass – as part of its network educational agreement with the Joint Belgorod Institute of Food Sciences.

Throughout the academic year, BelSU academics have been sharing their expertise with Chinese students, covering the latest advances in biotechnology, chemistry, and biology. Anastasia Malyutina and Evgeniya Tarasenko led an extensive series of classes in organic and inorganic chemistry, while Professor Inna Solyanikova guided students through the world of microorganisms and their critical role in biotechnological processes.

A centrepiece of the collaboration came when Yuri Boltenko, Acting Head of the Department of Food Technology, and Kirill Kuznetsov, Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology, presented their latest research at an interdepartmental meeting that brought together biology, nutrition, and chemistry specialists at Dezhou. Boltenko’s paper on the development of functional food products and Kuznetsov’s work on a universal method for assessing and correcting visceral system dysfunction both drew keen interest. Chinese faculty and students alike took an active part in the discussions that followed, signalling the growing relevance of these research directions for both institutions.

The partnership is not confined to the laboratory and lecture hall. Kirill Kuznetsov also made his mark on the sports field, competing in the annual teachers’ and students’ Olympiad in Dezhou and returning with gold and bronze medals in individual running and skipping events.

Meanwhile, Yuri Boltenko brought a slice of culinary diplomacy to campus. In a well-attended masterclass, he taught Chinese students how to prepare a classic pizza before introducing them to kulesh, a traditional Russian dish. The students threw themselves into mastering new techniques, and, by all accounts, thoroughly enjoyed the tasting that followed.

The network programme with Dezhou University opens fresh horizons for the Institute of Pharmacy, Chemistry, and Biology at BelSU, reinforcing its international standing and its commitment to a rich, globally engaged education.