MINSK, 7 May (BelTA) – Foreigners come to Belarus to receive high quality education at a reasonable price and learn the Russian language, Rector of the Belarusian State University (BSU) Sergei Ablameiko told BelTA.
The BSU provides training to young people from a variety of countries, including Bulgaria, Germany, Slovakia, Czechia, just to name a few. Many of them have Russian or Belarusian ancestors, are familiar with the local culture and would like to expand their knowledge. Despite a strong competition on part of Russian universities, Belarus also has things to offer to these young people. Higher education in Belarus has preserved the best Soviet traditions, it is quite affordable and young people have an opportunity to learn the Russian language here – this makes Belarus a popular place to study.
At present about 2,000 foreigners study at the Belarusian State University or about 10% of all full-time students studying for free. “This figure is quite big. For example, in large Russian universities, like the Moscow State University or the University of Peoples' Friendship foreign students account for about 20% of all students,” Sergei Ablameiko said. He added that the BSU is increasing the export of education services, establishing contacts with foreign universities and cementing its positions on traditional markets. The university has recently signed an agreement on cultural, scientific and academic cooperation with the university of Brasilia.
The BSU Rector mentioned another important factor contributing to the prestige of the Belarusian education – internship for foreign students at Belarusian companies. Sergei Ablameiko believes that it would be perfect if students boost their theoretical knowledge with practical skills both in Belarus and in their home country. The knowledge of the industry in various countries will give them a competitive edge on the labor market. However, the university is not able to arrange this international internship on its own. It would be helpful if ministries and embassies get involved in finding internship for foreign students, the BSU Rector said.