The first university examination centre of the Pushkin Institute was opened at Varna Free University
The first in Bulgaria Examination Centre of the Pushkin Institute was opened at Varna Free University. ThePushkin State Russian Language Institute-a member of the Russian test consortium is one of the five universities in Russia that conduct language tests for foreign citizens. It conducts certification tests in Russia and 25 countries worldwide. The form and content of the exams correspond to the analogous exams in foreign languages conducted by the British Council, Alliance Française, Goethe-Institut, El Instituto Cervantes and others.
The opening ceremony was attended by the Rector of Varna Free University, Prof. Galya Gercheva, D.Sc., the Vice President of the University, Assoc. Prof. Krasimir Nedyalkov, PhD, the Vice-Rector for Educational Affairs, Prof. Valeri Stoyanov, PhD, the Deans of the Faculties of the University, lecturers and students. Special guest at the event was the Consul General of the Russian Federation in Varna, HE Mr Sergei Lukyanchuk. This is not only our first centre at a Bulgarian university; this is the first centre of this kind in the world, said during the ceremony, the Rector of the Pushkin Institute, Prof. Margarita Rusetskaya D.Sc.
We open such centres to support the study of the Russian language, the education in Russian and the values of the open, electronic, distance learning in Russian. Varna Free University is a unique example of the combination of all these traditions and values. To find another similar university is probably impossible, but taking into account the traditionally good relations between our two nations, I believe it will become an example for many other universities where the Russian language is studied, programs for international exchange are implemented and electronic forms of learning are developed. This centre offers not only Russian- language learning by using our electronic resources, we offer a system of tests in Russian, consistent with the international standards and we are confident that this beautiful, full of positive energy space will become attractive centre for all who are interested in the Russian language, also said Prof. Rusetskaya. She handed commemorative plaque at the opening of the centre, thanked the organizers and wished them success in this quite difficult but good and promising initiative.
The Director of the Russian Centre of Varna Free University, Prof. Galina Shamonina, PhD emphasized that the centre of the Pushkin Institute is opened in the year in which the University celebrates its 25th anniversary and pointed out that it is yet another significant achievement. Receiving an international certificate of proficiency in the Russian language is not only an important part of the professional portfolio of the students but it gives them the opportunity to be part of the global educational space. The opening of the Examination Centre of the Pushkin State Russian Language Instituteexactly at Varna Free University is due to the successful long-term partnership between the two educational institutions and of course also because of the existence of actively working Russian Centre. Prof. Shamonina expressed confidence that there are many more successful joint educational and scientific projects.
The Consul General of the Russian Federation in Varna, HE Mr Sergei Lukyanchuk also delivered his addressed to the audience. Within the framework of the work meeting of the academic management of Varna Free University with the Rector of the Pushkin State Russian Language Institute, a cooperation agreement in the field of teaching and learning Russian was signed as well as a partnership agreement which includes the implementation of various activities within the partner network of the Pushkin Institute.
After the official opening ceremony of the test centre, Prof. Rusetskaya delivered a public lecture on Innovative Russian-language Study in the Global Space.
She was awarded the title "Honorary member of the Academic Forum of Varna Free University "Chernorizets Hrabar" and received an honorary plaque by the Vice President of the University, Assoc. Prof. Krasimir Nedyalkov, PhD.
