The PSU Award in the most international nomination ‘Best International Student’ was finalised at the Institute of International Cooperation.

In 2025, 5 students of Penza State University from 4 countries competed for the title of the winner: Namalongo Ezekiel (Zambia), Melleev Alijan (Turkmenistan), Shaikh Humerabanu (India), Shlok Kshirsagar (India), Esenalieva Dayana (Kyrgyzstan).

‘The best international students are those who actively participate in the social life of the university and the city, help the needy, are involved in charity and social work, take part in cultural and mass events, organise meetings with representatives of their culture, and help strengthen friendly ties. Our international students demonstrate outstanding abilities and make a significant contribution to the development of our educational institution', - emphasised Gleb Sintsov, Vice-Rector for International Affairs of PSU.

The participants wrote a Russian language test organised by the Department of Russian as a Foreign Language.

In addition, the organising committee of the award assessed the academic and social activities of the students.

They spoke about their country's culture to the city's schoolchildren as part of the interactive and educational project ‘Friendship Lessons’. This meeting was held at the Penza Regional Library for Children and Youth and gathered dozens of technical school students in the auditorium. The students spoke about the culture and traditions, everyday life, national and state symbols, nature and sights of their countries. Ezekiel Namalongo treated everyone with national dishes prepared by his own hand, Shlok Kshirsagar delighted the audience with live performance of Indian national song, Esenalieva Dayana and Shaikh Khumerabanu, in addition to a meaningful presentation, organised and held an exhibition of national costumes and jewellery, which particularly pleased the female part of the audience.

The final test was the writing and defence of projects within the framework of the Laboratory of Student Initiatives in front of the expert commission, which consisted of the Head of the International Education Office Sergey Ivanchin, Head of the International Relations Office Olga Meshcheryakova, Deputy Head of the Department of Youth Policy and Educational Work of PSU Lilia Kudinova, Head of the Department of Student Affairs Ekaterina Syagaylo.

As a result of all the tests, Kshirsagar Shlok Rajesh, a 3rd year medical student from India, became the winner of the title ‘Best International Student of the Year’. Ahead of the winner awaits the regional stage of the competition, where he will represent Penza State University.

‘This award is an important incentive to continue to study hard and develop myself further. It confirms that hard work and the pursuit of knowledge are indeed rewarded. I would like to wish all international students here to stay true to their vocation, overcome difficulties and achieve their goals,’ - Schlock shared his impressions.