Effective training of international students depends on how successfully they accustom to the new context. In this regard, the extra-curricular work of the International Office is primarily aimed at adapting young people to the new living and learning conditions through their involvement in the creative, sporting and social life of the university. Promotion of healthy lifestyles and sports is a driver in social adaptation of international students.

Sport is known for cultivating movement coordination, physical qualities and abilities required for living, developing and adapting to the complex stressors. It is reflected in increasing resistance to a number of unfavourable factors, i.e. unusual climate, psychological stress, mental strain, etc. In addition, sport has a profound impact not only on promoting academic excellence, but also on forming attitudes and standards of conduct that regulate people’s behaviour, strengthen interpersonal relations between citizens of different countries and create positive psychological climate among them.

When working out the plan for sporting events, the International Office takes into account the characteristics of sports in various countries, common features of multinational groups, language convergence, regional patterns, and national traditions. One of the focuses in sports and health work is the involvement of international students in specialised sports clubs. The sports clubs operate throughout the academic year. Sign-up begins in September. In conjunction with the Institute of Sport and Physical Training, the International Office has established sports clubs in the following areas:

•    Football
•    Wrestling
•    Swimming
•    Artistic gymnastics
•    Volleyball
•    Basketball

During the academic year, mass health and sports events are held. They are aimed at involving students in regular sports activities and improving their health. The events are arranged in their free time, on weekends and on public holidays.

One of the major sporting events is the Good Will Games, which were first held at Penza State University in 2017. The games are aimed at the adaptation and socialisation of foreign citizens through organising sports-oriented leisure activities. Moreover, its goal is to reinforce friendly ties between students from different countries studying at the university. This sport and recreation event is conducted following students' interests and results of sports clubs in various sports: mini-football, wrestling, volleyball, street-ball, swimming, cricket, artistic gymnastics, etc. Approximately 300 foreign nationals from 20 countries take part in the competition.

Penza State University annually hosts the Kurash Tournament among international students. Kurash refers to several folk wrestling styles practiced in Central Asia. The tournament is timed for Nowruz (the festival of the New Year among the Iranians and Turkic peoples) celebrated at PSU. The Kurash Tournament brings together foreign citizens studying at Penza universities. Participants represent Central Asian countries: Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. The competitions are held in 4 weight classes: up to 60 kg, up to 70 kg, up to 80 kg, and up to 90 kg. 

In addition, international students of PSU from around the world actively participate in the traditional Winter Mini-Football Tournament. This event is aimed at promoting sportsmanship and building positive interethnic interaction among foreign nationals studying at PSU. It annually attracts about 60 students competing for medals and bringing joy to their fans.

The International Office also encourages off-site sports events.

If you study at Penza State University and wish to engage in sports at PSU, please contact the Department of Student Affairs. For latest news and photos please refer to the Official group in Vkontakte (in Russian).