UNN Institute of International Relations and World History celebrates the anniversary of historical education in Nizhny Novgorod
The Academic Council meeting of the UNN Institute of International Relations and World History (IIRWH) took place at the City Duma of Nizhny Novgorod. It marked the 110th anniversary of historical education at Lobachevsky University and the 80th anniversary of the re-establishment of the Faculty of History and Philology. The event brought together university administrators, faculty, students, alumni, and representatives of state and municipal authorities.
In his opening remarks, UNN Rector Oleg Trofimov greeted the participants and highlighted the Institute's significant role in the academic landscape of the region and the country. He noted that IIRWH serves as a centre for integrating the best practices in historical and political science, an important venue for fostering international cooperation, and a key platform for training highly qualified professionals.
"Humanitarian knowledge helps us to see human destinies, cultural meanings and values that shape public consciousness - through historical facts. In an era of accelerated change, it is the humanities that provide the interpretive tools necessary for a balanced understanding of the past and responsible design of the future. Society is looking for answers in turning to history, and the state pays closer attention to historical education as the basis for fostering patriotism," Oleg Trofimov emphasised.
Roman Strongin, Chairman of the Nizhny Novgorod region’s Public Chamber and President of the National Research University of Nizhny Novgorod, recalled that historical research and historical education have been laid in the foundation of the University since its establishment.
"History is more than just an important subject. It is the fundamental basis for the formation of an individual, regardless of their field of activity," Roman Strongin underlined. "Learning about history should instill pride in belonging to the great Russian civilization and a readiness to contribute to its development and protection."
Evgeny Chintsov, the Chairman of the Nizhny Novgorod City Duma, extended his congratulations to the audience on the occasion of the double anniversary. He also highlighted the university's significant role in today's context.
"The double anniversary of the Institute of International Relations and World History and Lobachevsky University is not just a festive occasion and a chance to recognise the best students. As an officer and a citizen, I am convinced that historical knowledge forms the basis of fundamental education and is a real contribution to protecting the younger generation from a massive disinformation attack. Today, one of the nation's leading universities is carrying out a responsible mission to create an intellectual shield resilient to external pressures, and I express my gratitude to the entire team for their efforts," noted Evgeny Chintsov.
Mikhail Rykhtik, Director of IIRWH, delivered a report to the Academic Council. He highlighted the team's accomplishments and outlined the priority areas of work for the future.
"IIRWH has always been and continues to be a crucial vehicle of state interests at the global level. This is primarily achieved through our educational projects. We are attractive and interesting to international students. For over 15 years, we have consistently enrolled bachelor's and master's students who study in English. We also offer Russian-language educational programmes that attract foreign students. This means we have prepared hundreds of 'ambassadors of Russian culture' and we continue to do so today," Mikhail Rykhtik said.
At the meeting of the IIRWH Academic Council, Oleg Trofimov presented Letters of Gratitude from the UNN Rector to the Institute's students in recognition of their contributions and active involvement in the university's scientific and social activities. In turn, Mikhail Rykhtik noted the Institute's best student communities.
Following the official part of the event, the All-Russian Scientific Symposium with international participation titled "Identity, Autonomy, Sovereignty: Dimensions of Understanding and Practices of Achieving National Independence in World History" was inaugurated. The scientific forum was co-organised and supported by leading professional associations, including the Russian Political Science Association, the Russian Historical Society), the Association for European Studies, and the philosophical club "The Civilizational Future of Russia".
The symposium features a comprehensive scientific programme involving prominent researchers from Russia and abroad. The sectional meetings and panel discussions were held at the Corporate University of the Nizhny Novgorod region and within the premises of the UNN Institute of International Relations and World History.
