Thomas Graf Commended KFU for Its Contribution to German-Russian Ties

Head of the Department of Economy and Science of the Embassy of Germany in Russia visited on January 18th.

He was greeted by Vice-Rector Linar Latypov and several other executives. Dr. Latypov mentioned that German scholars have contributed immensely to the development of Kazan University, especially in its formative years. About 100 German nationals have worked here in total, including two rectors – Karl Fuchs and Johann Braun. He then listed brief facts about the University’s current life. In particular, Dr. Latypov said that there are 30 active agreements and 8 exchange programs with German universities.

Thomas Graf responded, “I am very glad to witness the development of your wonderful university and its cooperation with German institutions. We at the embassy are elated to see this cooperation thriving. It’s especially importation that personal interaction in science and culture is stable and growing. It’s a good sign and the basis for the upcoming mending of existing political problems. With this cooperation you make a great contribution to creating a healthy standing for our bilateral relations.” He emphasized the importance of new developments in scientific links.

Director of the Institute of Psychology and Education Aydar Kalimullin lamented the decreasing popularity of German language in Russia – its prospects lie solely in scientific cooperation between the two countries. As he added, KFU plans to launch a new master’s program in comparative Russian-German educational research. Graduates of German philology programs are the main target group. The program will include modules on German pedagogical methods.