On May 12, 2017 Penza State University hosted the Day of African Culture. The event brought together students and lecturers of PSU who were eager to acquaint with customs and traditions of peoples living in Africa. It was held on the sports ground “Politekhnik”.

The event became an integral part of the cultural marathon “Around the World in 2 Semesters” arranged by the International Education Office, Institute of International Cooperation.

Prof. Viktor Af. Meshcheryakov, First Vice-Rector of PSU, welcomed the participants of the event. “Almost every fifth international student of PSU is from one of the African countries. It’s great! Your culture is extremely rich, diverse and exciting. Such events give us an opportunity to get acquainted with it,” Prof. Viktor Af. Meshcheryakov noted.

Prof. Sergei M. Vasin, Vice-Rector for International Affairs, emphasised that the event was a success despite the whims of weather. “Everything depends on weather in our souls!” he stressed.

The students of the Institute of International Cooperation organised vigorous and vivid concert programme ranging from national dances to presentation of folk costumes.

The guests were able to study cultures and traditions of such countries as Nigeria, Benin, Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire, Mali, Cameroon, Chad, Kenya, Namibia, and the Republic of South Africa.

The exhibition of African folk art, degustation of national cuisine and master class on African hair braiding took place in pavilions.

Particular attention was given to the ground where everyone interested could fling a wooden spear. Prof. Sergei M. Vasin, Vice-Rector for International Affairs, was ahead of everyone in this challenge.

On the Day of African Culture the rolling cup of the marathon “Around the World in 2 Semesters” was handed over to the students from Africa.