One of the strategic vectors for the development of the Russian educational space is expanding cooperation with Chinese universities and colleges. Penza State University is actively working in this direction.

The Ministry of Education of China has supported an application for implementing a joint double degree educational programme 49.03.02 "Physical education for individuals with disabilities" between Penza State University and Jining University (course "Physical rehabilitation").

This success was the result of painstaking preparatory work. A team from the Institute of International Cooperation, led by Vice Rector for International Affairs Gleb Sintsov, held negotiations to develop the joint educational programme. A working group consisting of staff from the Institute of International Cooperation and the Institute of Sport and Physical Training synchronized the curricula of both universities, prepared a detailed description of the subjects taught, and compiled faculty portfolios. Both parties worked diligently to complete the application package and develop and approve the agreement for implementing the network educational programme.

In June 2024, a delegation from Jining University paid an official visit to PSU, where an agreement was signed to implement a joint educational programme. Furthermore, the teaching staff of the Institute of Sport and Physical Training introduced the delegation to the University and city's sports facilities and the Institute's athletic training methods.

"The fact that the Chinese Ministry of Education has supported the second double degree network programme with a Chinese university demonstrates the international recognition of the quality of education provided at PSU. Our university has extensive experience training Chinese students, thanks in part to the successful joint double degree programme with Gannan Normal University, which has been implemented at the Institute of Teacher Education by the Department of Music and Music Teaching Methods since 2017. This experience has enabled us to effectively prepare for the launch of this new double degree programme. We will set new goals and successfully achieve them," noted Vice-Rector for International Affairs Gleb Sintsov.

The joint educational programme will begin on September 1, 2026. Chinese students will study for three years at Jining University, including with faculty from the Institute of Sport and Physical Training of Penza State University. The fourth year will be spent at Penza State University.

"Students from China are already successfully studying at our institute. We are pleased to expand our collaboration with Chinese universities and are confident in the success of this project," said Yuri Tikhonov, Director of the Institute of Sport and Physical Training.

Particularly noteworthy is the role of PSU's partner, Wang Tao, head of the Beijing Bridge Cultural Exchange Company, who initiated the development of this educational project and provided organizational support at every stage.

To strengthen cooperation with Jining University, in the spring of 2026, 10-15 Chinese students will come to PSU for an internship at the Institute of Sport and Physical Training.