#SouthAfricansInRussia

🤩🇿🇦 UNISA Academic Embraces Russian Language!

🎓 Dr Roman Samantha, Adjunct Academic at #UNISA, became the 3rd South African to recently complete the “Start Learning Russian as a Foreign Language” programme. Hosted across Moscow and Saratov from 10 to 23 September 2026, the initiative blended foundational language learning with deep cultural immersion to strengthen educational ties between Russia and Africa.

The curriculum focused on building communication confidence from the ground up, covering pronunciation, vocabulary and everyday grammar. For Dr Samantha, the most rewarding aspect was witnessing the group's rapid progress, moving from zero prior knowledge to confidently engaging in basic dialogues by the end of the programme.

🇷🇺 Beyond the classroom, regional excursions, cultural activities and live concerts offered a firsthand look at Russian traditions, history and hospitality. These experiences provided the delegates with a profound appreciation for how deeply the Russian language is intertwined with its heritage.

🤝 Dr Samantha noted that the trip was highly valuable on academic, cultural and personal levels. By fostering lasting professional connections and friendships between African delegates and Russian hosts, the programme has provided a strong foundation and motivation to continue learning the language.

#AcademicExchange