This year’s Diwali celebrations at Ogarev Mordovia State University are especially meaningful, as the university welcomes a delegation of students and academics from the RPS Group of Institutions, India. The visit brings new opportunities for intercultural exchange, academic dialogue and the development of international partnerships.
On October 19, Dmitry Stolyarov, Vice-Rector for International Affairs and Security at Ogarev Mordovia State University (MRSU), met with representatives of the Indian delegation. The meeting was attended by Irina Ovechkina, Head of the International Relations Department, and Olga Safonkina, Head of the International Education Division.
The discussions focused on opportunities to strengthen cooperation between MRSU and the RPS Group of Institutions, including potential academic and scientific partnerships, educational initiatives and future joint activities.
The visiting delegation includes representatives of the RPS Group of Institutions, an educational organization in Haryana, India, with experience in engineering, technology and other academic fields.
Dr. Prem Singh Yadav is a Professor of Veterinary Physiology and Head of Research and Development at RPS College of Veterinary Science, Balana, Mahendergarh, Haryana. He previously served as Principal Scientist and Head of the Animal Physiology and Reproduction Division at the ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes (ICAR-CIRB), Hisar.
Dr. Yadav specializes in reproductive biotechnology, particularly stem-cell research and somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) cloning. His research team has achieved significant results in buffalo cloning, including the production of 20 cloned buffaloes. His professional achievements have been recognized through several scientific awards. He has authored more than 100 peer-reviewed publications and contributed to books and academic chapters, while supervising doctoral and postgraduate students.
Dr. Devender Singh serves as Registrar at the RPS Group of Institutions. With more than 15 years of experience in higher education administration, he specializes in academic operations, student admissions and records, institutional administration and the development of effective educational processes. His work focuses on improving the student experience and supporting academic excellence.
The visit coincides with the celebration of Diwali, one of India’s most important festivals, widely known as the Festival of Lights. Traditionally associated with the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, Diwali brings families and communities together and celebrates hope, renewal and new beginnings.
The participation of the Indian delegation in Diwali events and other activities at MRSU offers students and staff an opportunity to experience Indian culture firsthand, strengthen intercultural connections and build friendships across borders.
For the university, welcoming international students and academics is also an important part of expanding its global network and creating opportunities for meaningful educational and scientific cooperation.