From November 6 to 14, 2025, a delegation from Penza State University, led by Olga Surina, Director of the Institute of Teacher Education, visited Gannan Normal University (Ganzhou, People's Republic of China) at the official invitation of PSU's partner, Wang Tao, General Director of the Beijing Bridge Cultural Exchange Company.

The delegation included Ekaterina Syagaylo, Head of the Department of Student Affairs of the International Education Office, the Institute of International Cooperation, PSU, and students from the following programmes: Pedagogical Education (Music), Pedagogical Education (with two training profiles), Chinese Language and English Language, and Pedagogical Education (Music Education).

This trip, organized for the first time as part of a cultural exchange, became an important part of the universities' international cooperation and contributed to the strengthening of academic ties between the two countries.

The programme of the visit was rich and varied. It opened with a joint concert by Chinese and Russian students, showcasing the full flavor of Russia and China.

At the welcoming ceremony, GNU Vice-Rector Gan Yafen emphasized the importance of implementing joint projects in music education between the universities, as this allows students to gain high-quality knowledge and acquire high-level professional competences, as well as contribute to strengthening cooperation between China and Russia in the educational sphere.

During the visit, relevant meetings were held. A meeting with Chinese students was held at the Institute of Music, where Olga Surina spoke about the education and life of Chinese students at PSU, who are taking the joint degree programme, as well as about the faculty and facilities. Ekaterina Syagaylo, in turn, addressed organizational issues related to housing, medical care, and social adaptation for international students, as well as opportunities for joint creative and scientific events.

The students attended lectures and workshops organized by the Chinese side. This allowed them to become familiar with the organization of the educational process in China, teaching methods, and innovative technologies used in education.

In addition, the delegation attended cultural events aimed at introducing them to Chinese traditions and the daily life of the local population. Tours of the region's landmarks provided a better understanding of China's history and culture.

Following the visit, a decision was made to continue developing partnerships and create conditions for further deepening cooperation in science and education through internships and student and faculty exchanges, also within the framework of the bachelor's degree programme "Chinese Language. English Language" within “Pedagogical education” (with two training profiles)" course.

"This trip will be an important step in the development of Penza State University's international activities and will open new horizons for future generations of students and researchers. We thank Penza State University Rector Aleksandr Guliakov for his comprehensive support in our collaboration with representatives from other countries," noted Gleb Sintsov, Vice-Rector for International Affairs at Penza State University.

A delegation from Gannan Normal University paid a return visit to the Penza Region today, on November 19.