First President of Tatarstan Mintimer Shaimiev Becomes Doctor Honoris Causa of Kazan University

The credentials were bestowed upon Dr. Shaimiev on November 20th during the afforced meeting of the University’s Board of Academics.

The ceremony was symbolic because it was Mintimer Shaimiev who actively lobbied the assumption of the federal status by the University – which subsequently led to its participation in the Project 5-100 and allocation of federal funding for its development program until 2019.

Dr. Shaimiev has made significant contributions to the growth of humanities at KFU. These include the participation of researchers in millennial celebrations and respective scientific event in Kazan and Elabuga, “Great Volga Way” and “Ancient Bolghar and Island City of Sviyazhsk” projects, and many others.

In his acceptance speech the new honorary doctor noted Rector Gafurov's initiative of establishing the Cultural Heritage Resource Center at Kazan University and expressed hope that this center will some time join the ranks of the UNESCO Heritage Centers.

Russia needs an efficient and consistent cultural and natural heritage policy based on science, said Dr. Shaimiev. Thus graduating competent experts in cultural heritage protection becomes more and more important. Furthermore, studying national history, languages, art and culture is necessary for the advancement in technology and industry.