How to move fr om Congo to France, and then to Mordovia, is known by Graziano Ibu, a graduate student at the Faculty of Mathematics and Information Technologies. The «Voice of Mordovian University» correspondent Yaroslava Pangaeva learned about his love not only for mathematics but also for football and Mordovian culture.

— Tell us about yourself. What are your interests? How did you decide to apply to our university?

- I was born and raised in Congo, wh ere I completed my bachelor’s degree. I have a degree in engineering. Then my parents were offered a good job in France, so we moved there. I played football because I love sports, and I tried to find a good job, but I faced some difficulties. My parents and friends suggested that I apply to a master’s program at a Russian university and then return to Africa, since Russian-African relations are developing rapidly. Many Russian companies are opening in Congo, and knowledge of the Russian language and Russian education would give me an advantage. I agreed and submitted my application to the embassy. I received approval fr om Mordovia State University.

— Are you facing any difficulties in our country or at the university?

- Like many international students, I was initially surprised by the Russian cold. Before coming to Saransk, I had only used the metro, and long hours on the train were quite exhausting. I was also surprised by strangers wanting to take photos with me. But later, my family and friends explained that people were seeing someone from Africa for the first time and wanted a picture as a nice memory. I understood this and now smile at such requests. At the university, everyone treats me kindly and with respect.

— We know you as a football player for the student team «Khoroshee Delo — MRSU.» Can you share your impressions?

- Playing for the «Khoroshee Delo — MGU» team has been an incredible experience for me. The team brings together students from different countries, creating a unique atmosphere of friendship and cooperation. We not only train together but also teach each other languages and talk about our cultures. The team provides an opportunity to develop teamwork and leadership skills. Participating in practices and competitions helps me better understand Russian culture and make new friends.

— Do you have any other hobbies besides football?

- In my free time from studies, I try to help develop Russian-African relations at the university. Recently, I participated in the business game «Russia.Africa. 2030.» From November 7 to 10, students from 25 countries and 32 universities met at the Financial University under the Government of Russia. We shared ideas on how to build new international relations.

I also try to actively learn about the culture of Mordovia. At one event, I wore a traditional Mordovian costume. It was in September at the V. N. Rzhavitin Botanical Garden, wh ere the university scholars Nikolai and Lyudmila Boyarkins presented their work «Mordovian Musical Epic.» I realized how important this book is for promoting Mordovian culture. At the Botanical Garden, I met the Head of the Republic of Mordovia.

— We have many international students at our university. What advice would you give them?

- Participate in academic and extracurricular activities to better adapt to the new culture and make friends. This will significantly enrich your learning experience. But it is important to learn the language. Don’t be afraid to ask native speakers if you are saying something correctly or making mistakes. Practice, and it will be easier for you.

The article was published in the «Voice of Mordovian University» newspaper (No. 10 — November 28, 2024).