A snow football super league featuring Russian teams will be launched in Heilongjiang Province.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News

Harbin, December 25 (Xinhua) — Northeast China's Heilongjiang Province will host its first-ever provincial snow football super league during the 2025-2026 ice and snow season, with Russian teams participating, according to the Heilongjiang Provincial Administration of Sports.

According to the department's announcement, the new sporting event will feature competitions in three categories: serial youth snow football matches, international and domestic invitational snow football tournaments.

Dozens of snow football competitions among primary and middle school students will be held in many districts across the province, including matches between Chinese and Russian primary and middle school students in Tongjiang City, with more than 20 teams from northeastern China and the Russian Far East participating.

Meanwhile, the province will also host seven international invitational snow football tournaments aimed at deepening cross-border sports and cultural exchanges. These include the 3rd Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Snow Football Tournament, which will feature eight teams from SCO member states.

The upcoming Snow Football Super League will aim to awaken public enthusiasm for football, promote the deep integration of regional sports, culture, tourism, and commerce, and increase ice and snow consumption, thereby stimulating the dynamics of the ice and snow economy through the high-quality development of winter sports, according to the provincial administration of physical education and sports.

The Super League will also feature a variety of events, including performing arts performances, food fairs, and folklore demonstrations, to create new scenarios for diverse consumption. -0-

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Foreign media views on China: China's economy is showing significant resilience

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News

Recently, international organizations such as the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, the Asian Development Bank, and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development have unanimously upgraded their growth forecasts for China's economy in 2025, noting that China's economy has demonstrated significant resilience in the face of a volatile international environment and various risks and challenges.

The Saudi newspaper Al-Sharq Al-Awsat, citing analyses by several economic experts who interpreted the World Bank's upgraded Chinese economic growth forecast as demonstrating "significant resilience in the Chinese economy" and demonstrating effective coordination between China's fiscal and monetary policies, stated: "Amid rising global uncertainty, China has achieved stable economic growth through strategic support policies and deepening structural reforms."

The UAE publication Al Ain News writes that the stable progress of the Chinese economy in 2025 is the result of China's policy of managing socioeconomic development through medium- and long-term planning and promoting the diversification of export markets. All parties are confident in the prospects for Chinese economic growth.

The Arabic version of the British television channel Sky News reports that several international organizations have raised their expectations for China's economic growth, confirming the positive impact of the comprehensive measures China has taken. China's economy supports global economic stability.

The Algerian newspaper L'Aurore notes in its analysis that China's exports to countries in Southeast Asia, Africa, and the EU are constantly growing, and the diversification of export markets demonstrates the high resilience and ability of the Chinese economy to withstand risks.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

China's Ministry of Commerce: China hopes to reach a decision regarding TikTok that complies with Chinese law and balances interests

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News

BEIJING, December 25 (Xinhua) — The Chinese government hopes that relevant parties can reach a solution regarding TikTok that complies with China's laws and regulations and balances interests, Ministry of Commerce spokesperson He Yongqian said on Thursday.

He Yongqian made the statement at a regular press conference when asked to comment on reports that TikTok had signed agreements with three investors to establish a new joint venture in the United States to ensure the continuation of its operations there.

According to the representative, in order to implement the important consensus reached during the telephone conversation between the leaders of China and the United States, the trade and economic teams of both sides previously reached a basic framework agreement on properly resolving issues related to TikTok and other issues through cooperation based on mutual respect and equal consultation.

He Yongqian expressed hope that the US side will support China in taking steps towards each other and thoroughly fulfill its respective promises.

She also called on the United States to ensure a fair, open, transparent and non-discriminatory business environment for the continuous and stable operation of Chinese enterprises in the United States, so as to promote the stable, healthy and sustainable development of China-US economic and trade ties. -0-

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

St. Petersburg Student Team Festival: Achievements and New Records at the Polytechnic University

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

The traditional festival of student brigades in St. Petersburg took place at the Oktyabrsky Concert Hall, where the results of 2025 were summarized. The event brought together movement veterans, active members, employers, and partners. The best brigades, leaders, and organizers of the region's student movement received awards.

By the end of the year, the SPbPU Student Team Headquarters had strengthened its leadership position. The Polytechnic University received a letter of gratitude from the Vice Governor of St. Petersburg for its significant contribution to the development of student teams. The Headquarters' press service won the Audience Choice Award at the citywide competition.

Among the Polytechnic teams, the following traditionally showed high results:

The student construction team "Iskra" confirmed its title of best in the construction category; the student conductor team "Provorny" retained its leadership in its category; and the student teaching team "SOzvezdie" deservedly earned its place among the best.

Special mention was given to fighters who achieved outstanding results in the past year:

Anna Kurakina (SSSO Altair) was awarded a letter of gratitude for achieving high results in industrial, cultural and socially significant work and contribution to the development of the activities of the Russian Student Brigades, as well as a 3rd degree certificate of honor for her contribution to the development of student brigades of St. Petersburg; Sergey Saplin (SSO Iskra) was awarded an honorary certificate with a badge of distinction for achieving the highest results in industrial, cultural and socially significant work and active support of the activities of the Russian Student Brigades; Alexey Pashukhin (SSO GOST) was recognized as the best headquarters commander; Anastasia Popova (SPO Legenda) was recognized as the best headquarters commissar; Ekaterina Ryabizo (SPO SOzvezdie) was recognized as the best headquarters methodologist; Polina Timoshkova (SSO Nika) was recognized as the best headquarters foreman; Ksenia Zubenko (SOP Provorny) was recognized as the best headquarters commandant.

In 2025, Polytechnic University teams celebrated anniversaries: the student teaching team "SOzvezdie" turned 15 years old, and the guide team "Provorny" turned 10 years old.

The festival's creative program also featured Polytechnic students. The dance number "Earth," choreographed by Lyuba Skorobogatova (SPO "Scarlet Sails"), was warmly received by the audience. The dance group was made up of representatives from three groups: "Scarlet Sails," "SOzvezdie," and "Astra."

The student teaching group "Rassvet" held its fifth annual environmental campaign to collect plastic bottle caps. This annual event aims to foster environmental awareness among its members and support charitable initiatives.

The St. Petersburg Student Brigades Festival is a large-scale event that vividly demonstrates the strength and unity of the movement in our city. The fact that over three thousand people, whose lives are somehow connected to the brigades, gather in the hall on a weekday speaks to the deep integration of this tradition into student life. The festival has become a long-awaited final event of the year, for which students meticulously prepare, organizing their formations and creating a special, festive atmosphere. "It is here, among like-minded people, that the community spirit is truly felt, and the work of each member receives well-deserved recognition," shared Yuri Gaichuk, head of the press service for the Polytechnic University Student Brigades Headquarters.

The festival confirmed that the Polytechnic's student teams continue to develop, set new standards of performance, and make a significant contribution to the development of the St. Petersburg SSO movement.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Study in Russia! Polytechnic University at the International Education Fair in Kazakhstan

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

The 2025 season of international education exhibitions concluded with the participation of a delegation from St. Petersburg Polytechnic University in the ninth exhibition and presentation of Russian education, "Study in Russia!", held in Kazakhstan.

The event served as a platform for dialogue with prospective students and their parents. Over the course of two days, the exhibition attracted over 3,500 visitors. The exhibit featured 43 leading universities from Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, Yekaterinburg, and other Russian cities. The Polytechnic University's booth generated considerable interest among guests, attracting hundreds of prospective students who learned about the opportunities offered by studying at one of the country's top technical universities.

Anastasia Prokopchuk, Deputy Head of the International Education Department, and Evgenia Borodina, Specialist of the International Educational Programs and Academic Mobility Department, held individual consultations over two days. They provided detailed information about the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, admission requirements, campus housing, and employment prospects. They placed particular emphasis on the application process under the Russian Government quota and opportunities for compatriots.

The most popular educational fields among applicants were construction, software engineering and applied computer science, applied mathematics and physics, electrical power engineering and mechanical engineering, design, as well as management and business informatics.

Motivated applicants with clear questions attended the exhibition, which significantly increased the effectiveness of our work. "We not only answered hundreds of questions but also collected the contacts of interested students, which will allow us to support them throughout the admissions process," noted Anastasia Prokopchuk.

Participation in the "Study in Russia!" exhibition allowed the Polytechnic to strengthen its position in the Kazakhstani educational market, establish direct contact with its target audience, and analyze the needs of prospective students to further improve its career guidance services.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

SKB Power Machines – Polytech: A New Educational Space for Training the Engineers of the Future

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University (SPbPU) celebrated the grand opening of a renovated educational space for the "Power Machines — Polytech" student design bureau (SDB), a key component of the SDB "Systems Engineering" ecosystem. The project is being implemented as part of a strategic partnership between the Polytechnic University and Power Machines, providing practice-oriented training for engineers in the high-tech industry. The "Power Machines — Polytech" student design bureau was established in 2020. The space will become a focal point for students involved in real-world engineering and research projects in power engineering.

The Special Design Bureau "Power Machines – Polytechnic" accepts students from the Institute of Energy, the Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials, and Transport, the Physical-Mechanical Institute, the Institute of Computer Science and Cybersecurity, and the SPbPU "Digital Engineering" vocational school. To work at the Special Design Bureau, students undergo a selection process aimed at building a promising talent pool for Power Machines. Students can begin their careers with the company while still undergraduates.

During their collaboration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University and Power Machines have implemented other new formats for training future engineers. They organized the educational project "Power Machines Trajectory," which won the 2024 All-Russian Competition for Best Practices in Youth Employment in the "Partnership in Developing Professional Competencies" category. They also host Power Machines Youth Days and the "Energy of Youth" scientific and practical conference. In 2025, work was completed to revive the "Engineering and Management of Electric Power Facilities" program. Students in the master's program gain knowledge and skills in electrical machines and potentially become engineers, designers, and testers at the Electrosila plant (part of Power Machines). This dual-degree program, in addition to core disciplines, teaches the fundamentals of project management and production economics, broadening the professional horizons of future specialists.

Representatives from Power Machines and SPbPU participated in the opening ceremony of the educational space. Guests were introduced to the capabilities of the Scientific and Engineering Center for Advanced Electrical Insulation Systems, where students and young researchers conduct computational and experimental work, participate in R&D, and master modern methods for testing and modeling power machine components.

Particular attention was paid to the demonstration of laboratory equipment and experimental setups, where students test insulating materials, study electrical and thermal aging processes, and investigate vibratory arc discharges and the mechanical properties of samples. This is the only laboratory among Russian universities dedicated to the study of electrical insulating materials and structures. Work in the laboratories is carried out according to technical specifications from Power Machines engineering.

In addition to extensive research and development, we collaborate with the Polytechnic University to create conditions for students to seamlessly transition from their studies to professional careers. This year, we launched a new student design bureau for electrical insulation and a targeted master's program in electrical machines. These programs allow students to participate in the full equipment development cycle—from concept and calculations to implementation in high-tech production. This fosters the modern engineering thinking of future specialists, which ultimately contributes to the development of our country's engineering potential, emphasized Alexander Ivanovsky, General Designer of Power Machines.

The renovated SKB space features student workstations, where they use the same software suites as engineers and designers at Power Machines. The students explained the training format at SKB Power Machines – Polytech and the tasks they are working on.

"The development of student design bureaus is one of the Polytechnic's priorities," noted Maxim Pasholikov, SPbPU Vice-Rector for Information, Youth Policy, and Security. "Joint projects with industrial partners, such as Power Machines, allow us to build a practice-oriented, seamless training program for engineers and create an environment in which education is directly linked to the real-world challenges of the country's economic and technological development."

Summing up the visit, university and company representatives emphasized that SKB Power Machines – Polytech exemplifies the effective integration of education, science, and industry. This collaboration helps train sought-after engineers, build the industry's talent pool, and engage students in solving pressing technological challenges already during their studies.

The Specialized Design Bureau "Power Machines – Polytechnic" is an important element of the University Development Program, integrating education, project work, and research into a single trajectory. Furthermore, the Specialized Design Bureau format allows the university to flexibly respond to the needs of high-tech industries and train specialists to meet current challenges. "It's important to note that we are building a unified chain, permeating all levels of education, from school design bureaus to student design bureaus, including secondary vocational education, and this chain culminates in design bureaus at high-tech industrial enterprises," commented Oleg Rozhdestvensky, Head of the SPbPU Office of Technological Leadership.

The educational space of the SKB "Power Machines – Polytech" will become a platform for expanding joint scientific research and developing new areas of training for industry specialists capable of addressing technological leadership challenges.

In April 2025, the student design bureau "System Engineering" won the Student Design Bureau Competition of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation in the "Student Design Leadership" category, receiving a subsidy from the federal budget.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

December 25, 2025: Emotional Intelligence vs. Artificial Intelligence: How Media is Changing

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Gazprom – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

St. Petersburg residents taught Muscovites about weekends

The city itself is certainly slower paced than Moscow, but this has its advantages. The British army has a principle regarding the misconduct of subordinates: even if a person has committed a serious crime, a decision should be made no sooner than 24 hours later, when the emotions have subsided. In St. Petersburg, it's much easier to make informed decisions than in Moscow.

Viewers are waiting for a hero like Stirlitz or Balabanov's "Brother" on screen.

We conducted extensive research on how the hero's image has evolved in Russian TV series over the past 40 years. The most anticipated character by viewers, yet one that hasn't yet appeared in recent years, is the great modern hero, comparable to Stirlitz or Alexei Balabanov's "Brother." I believe that in the next two or three years, such a hero will emerge in our time. He doesn't necessarily have to be a great man, but he will be a reflection of his era.

Will AI become part of the team?

Artificial intelligence is a powerful tool that accelerates a multitude of processes. But the creative process involves not only analysis and synthesis, but also the application of emotional intelligence when the creator is creating something unique. Artificial intelligence cannot create anything unique. I've seen examples of small forms of video content created by AI. It's quite boring. Therefore, it's right to treat artificial intelligence as a tool in the hands of a skilled creator. The finishing touches are left to the master: giving everything meaning, form, and content.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Brain gymnastics and royal round dances: what to do in the parks this weekend

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

On December 27 and 28, city parks under the jurisdiction of the capital Department of Culture, invites visitors of all ages to join themed programs. Admission to most events is free.

Gastrofestival and DJ party

On December 27, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, the children's disco "Kids in Rhythm" will be held on the dance floor in Lianozovsky Park. On the same day, from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM, the Bookingdom pavilion in Fili Park will host a screening of Soviet cartoons, "Visiting a Fairy Tale." From 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, you can enjoy an animation program and a quest in Izmailovsky Park.

Additionally, on December 27th, from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM, a DJ party with festive music and warming drinks will be held at the Taganka Skating Rink in Tagansky Park. The event is suitable for participants ages three and up. Admission is by tickets to the skating rink.

On December 27, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Izmailovsky Park will host a creative workshop on decorating Christmas tree baubles, and on December 28, at the same time, a workshop on making paper snowflakes will be held. On December 27 and 28, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM, relay races will be held near the V.I. Lenin monument, including sack and felt boot races, tug-of-war, a "Snake" competition, and more. At 4:00 PM, guests will be treated to a children's street performance, and a folk ensemble will perform at 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM.

On the weekend of December 27th and 28th, from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, you can attend the "Tasty Frosts 2.0" food festival at the Muzeon Arts Park. Guests will be treated to a gastronomic zone featuring pavilions of Moscow restaurants and cafes.

Traditions of Tsarist Russia and German lessons

On December 27 at 1:00 PM, a tour will be held in the Hermitage Garden. Guests will learn about what stood on the site of the Hermitage before it was built, who contributed to the opening of the garden, and other interesting facts. Meeting point is the main entrance (from Karetny Ryad Street), near the white fountain. Admission is by free ticketsOn December 27th and 28th, from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM, you can take part in the quest "Seasons," and at 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM, you can see the immersive performance "12 Months."

On December 27 at 1:00 PM, take a tour at Fili Park to learn about the traditions of celebrating New Year and Christmas in the Russian Empire (before 1917). The meeting point is the square in front of the Naryshkin Estate. From 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, the Chess Pavilion at 50th Anniversary of October Park will host "Mind Games" classes for ages six to 17. Registration is required to participate. free ticket.

On December 28th from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM, Tagansky Park invites you to practice German and learn some facts about Germany. Admission is by tickets.

Theatrical felt masks and toys

On December 27th, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, a "Christmas Tree Balls" workshop will be held in the Lecture Pavilion at the Terletskaya Dubrava recreation area. Participants will learn how to create mosaic-style Christmas balls. On December 28th, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, participants will learn how to make greeting cards using decorative materials. Also in the pavilion, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, a "Brain Gym" class will be held, where participants will learn techniques and exercises to improve concentration.

On December 27, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, the Nikulino Park skating rink will host ice games and a workshop for guests aged six to 12 on making a plastic "New Year's Tree" card and a felt "Horse" magnet. To participate, you must pre-registrationFrom 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM, the Krasnaya Presnya Park workshop invites you to a lesson on creating theatrical masks and paper puppets. Admission by tickets (for participants aged six to 17 years).

December 27 and 28 at 12:00 Mitino Landscape Park, Olympic Village Park And Izmailovsky Park Workshops from the "Weekend with the Counselors" series will be held. Guests ages five and up will create candles and felt toys. The gathering place will be Father Frost's Estate. Admission is by ticket.

On December 27th and 28th, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, the Kolomenskoye Museum-Reserve, located near the palace of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich, will host the "Holiday of Winter Games and Fun" and "Tsar's Winter" events, featuring New Year's and Christmas music, round dances, winter games, a New Year's disco, and photo zones.

In addition, on December 27 and 28 from 12:00 to 19:00 in Olympic Village ParkA series of master classes is planned. Everyone will be able to draw a three-dimensional tree and create soft headdresses for fairy-tale characters. Admission is by ticket.

The weekend park program contributes to the implementation of the national project's goals and objectives in Moscow. "Family"More information about Russia's national projects and the capital's contribution can be found at special page.

The Moscow Parks project is a large-scale urban initiative aimed at creating comfortable, modern, and multifunctional recreation areas for residents and visitors of the capital. It unites over 50 park areas, which have been transformed into popular spots for sports, culture, family leisure, and communion with nature. The project not only preserves unique landscapes and ecosystems but also infuses the parks with new infrastructure: bike paths, sports grounds, art installations, workout areas, children's playgrounds, and outdoor cafes.

Mosgortur — an institution under the jurisdiction of the Moscow Department of Culture. It organizes and develops quality standards for children's recreation, trains and employs camp counselors, and addresses inclusive recreation issues. Popular Mosgortur projects include "Moscow Holidays," "Leisure in Parks," and the Central School of Moscow Camp Counselors.

As part of the project Leisure in the Parks They hold regular free classes for children and young people in 21 Moscow parks. The topics cover over 30 areas, including fitness, design, media, art, linguistics, dance, psychology, and more. Classes are free and must be booked in advance. Details are available at the project's Telegram channel.

Winter in Moscow — the main event of the season. The project aims to strengthen social and family ties, create an atmosphere of unity and mutual support, and provide assistance to those currently defending the Motherland. Through a variety of programs, including cultural, educational, and sporting events, it brings together Muscovites and visitors of all ages and interests, creating an environment for creative development, active recreation, and warm communication. Particular attention is paid to supporting participants and veterans of the special military operation and their families, as well as all those providing assistance to the front.

Get the latest news quickly on official Moscow messaging channels. MAX And Telegram.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Train service on the Kalininskaya metro line will be suspended from January 9 to 11.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

From January 9 to January 11, 2026, the section between the Novokosino and Novogireevo stations on the Kalininskaya metro line will be closed. A crossover switch ramp will be replaced, which will require temporary service suspension. Repair work is also planned for the same period.

During the restrictions, passengers will be able to use free KM buses running between Novokosino and Novogireevo stations, as well as the Moscow Central Diameter line 4.

Passenger Mobility Support Center staff will be on duty at stations to help create a convenient alternative route.

The restrictions will be in effect on holidays, when passenger traffic on public transport is reduced.

Get the latest news quickly on official Moscow messaging channels. MAX And Telegram.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

RUDN's top lecturer revealed the secrets of his teaching system.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Peoples'Friendship University of Russia

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Our university once again held the "Best RUDN University Lecturer" competition. Students have the final say in this competition, and independent experts ensure the objectivity of faculty evaluations. The winners are the most outstanding teachers who deliver meaningful and inspiring classes, engage their audience, and spark interest in the subject.

This year, places were distributed among the following areas.

Medical and biological sciences:

1st place — Elena Valeryevna Kaverina, MD, PhD, Associate Professor of the Department of Public Health, Healthcare and Hygiene; 2nd place — Maria Naimovna Chernova, MD, PhD, Associate Professor of the I.D. Kirpatovsky Department of Operative Surgery and Clinical Anatomy; 3rd place — Milana Sergeevna Das, Assistant Professor of the V.S. Kiktenko Department of Microbiology.

Natural and technical sciences:

1st place — Elvira Marsovna Gaysina, Assistant, Agrobiotechnology Department, Agrarian-Technological Institute; 2nd place — Ekaterina Dmitrievna Yesikova, Assistant, Technosphere Safety Department, Agrarian-Technological Institute; 3rd place — Daria Sergeevna Novikova, Senior Lecturer, Department of Applied Informatics and Intelligent Systems in the Humanities, Institute of the Russian Language.

Humanities:

1st place — Ekaterina Vasilyevna Kalygina, PhD in Economics, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Hotel and Restaurant Business at the Graduate School of Management; 2nd place — Irina Ivanovna Belozerova, PhD in Law, Associate Professor in the Department of Criminal Law, Criminal Procedure, and Forensic Science at the Law Institute; 3rd place — Lyubov Vasilyevna Timoschenkova, Teacher of Continuing Education at the Department of Russian Language No. 4 at the Russian Language Institute.

Social Sciences:

1st place — Tatyana Igorevna Larina, Candidate of Sociological Sciences, Associate Professor of the Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences; 2nd place — Milana Magomed-Salievna Abueva, Candidate of Economic Sciences, Associate Professor of the Department of Finance, Accounting and Auditing, Faculty of Economics; 3rd place — Aylara Batyrovna Orazova, Assistant Professor of the Department of Customs, Institute of Foreign Economic Security and Customs Affairs.

The Audience Choice Award was won by Lyubov Vasilyevna Timoschenkova, a teacher of additional education at the Russian Language Department No. 4 of the Russian Language Institute.

The overall winner of the competition was Alikhan Akhmedovich Elyasov, a teacher of supplementary education at the Institute of Foreign Languages at RUDN University. We spoke with him and learned the secret to his success.

Tell us about your path to RUDN and how you came to teaching.

My journey at RUDN University began with a dream of receiving a high-quality education and immersing myself in a multicultural environment. I've always been passionate about languages, especially English, and the university provided me with the opportunity not only to study it at a high level but also to interact with students from other countries. I strived to maximize my potential: I actively participated and presented at international conferences and language clubs, received prestigious scholarships for my academic and research achievements, and led student initiatives. I'm happy to have completed this journey, graduating with honors and becoming the best graduate of the Class of 2024.

But at some point, I realized that my accumulated skills and achievements were truly valuable when I could help others master new things more easily and achieve success. It was then that I realized how much I wanted to share my knowledge, inspire others, and see how students' eyes light up when they began to understand and speak a foreign language. That's how I came to teach. Perhaps it was this student experience, my pursuit of intellectual growth, and my desire to share information that helped me in the competition.

What subjects do you teach?

I've been teaching foreign languages, particularly English, for many years. My love of explanation and desire to teach probably began in my childhood. I always enthusiastically helped my friends with their homework, and this early mentoring experience later led me to believe that teaching was my calling, which ultimately determined my professional path.

Do you have a special training system?

My method is based on the desire to create the most positive and inspiring atmosphere in every lesson. I believe that this is the environment in which students feel comfortable, unafraid to speak up, ask questions, and make mistakes. I actively use a variety of modern tools: memes, videos, music, game elements, interactive presentations, and online platforms. I am constantly developing new ways to present material, striving to make each lesson unique and keep students coming back for more.

What do you consider most important in a teacher’s work?

In my opinion, the key to teaching is not simply imparting knowledge but cultivating interest. It's important not only to explain the material but also to inspire students. As Socrates said, "There's a sun in every person, just let it shine." A teacher should both imbue students with knowledge and awaken their curiosity, teaching them to think and seek answers independently, creating an atmosphere in which everyone feels valued and capable. The key is to create an environment where students feel supported and confident in their abilities. After all, even the most difficult topic becomes easier when there's someone who believes in your success.

"The Best Lecturer at RUDN University" is a highly prestigious professional excellence competition. What criteria did the jury use to evaluate the participants?

This is a truly large-scale event that allows all RUDN University faculty to demonstrate their professionalism and share experiences. Participants were evaluated based on several key criteria: lecture content, logical and structured presentation, oratorical skills, creative delivery, and, of course, mastery of effective audience communication techniques. It was important not just to present a topic, but to do so in an engaging and understandable way—one that would leave the audience wanting to learn more. The jury also looked for lectures that met modern educational standards, as well as interactivity and the ability to engage the audience.

The final round took place in person. What did the jury note about your presentation on "Memes as a Tool for Learning Language and Culture in the Digital Age"?

It was incredibly exciting. I'm delighted that my idea resonated with the jury. I was especially pleased to hear that the presentation was interactive and dynamic. I tried to show that memes aren't just entertainment, but a powerful tool for learning language and culture, as they reflect current trends, humor, and the values of modern society. To engage the audience and create a lighthearted atmosphere, I began with a simple and fun task. Each participant was given a set of 3D stickers featuring funny cats and dogs. The goal was to describe the mood of these cute animals using new words and expressions from the lecture.

The students immediately perked up. Laughter erupted in the audience, and a lively discussion ensued. Everyone was eager to come up with the most creative answer. We also analyzed numerous visual examples, the linguistic features of memes, and their cultural context. The jury noted that the lecture was not only informative but also truly engaging, and even suggested developing a full-fledged course on using memes in English language teaching based on it. I am grateful to the jury for their high praise of my work and their support in developing this idea.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.