The Institute of International Relations of Vavilov University hosted a social psychological training for students of the Centre for Pre-University Training, Academic Mobility and Grant Activities. The event was aimed at bringing together a multinational team, as well as the social and psychological adaptation of foreign citizens to the conditions of study and residence in Russia.
The participants of the training were representatives of Bangladesh, Cameroon, Morocco, Algeria, Togo, Egypt, Jordan and other countries. In a friendly and open atmosphere, the students performed psychological exercises and participated in interactive games that promote familiarity, the development of intercultural communication skills and the formation of trusting relationships in the group.
The training programme included team building exercises, emotional stress relief, and empathy development. Participants learned to better understand non-verbal signals, work in pairs and small groups, and discussed cultural differences and stereotypes, which helped them realize the value of diversity and find common ground regardless of nationality and religion.
The event was hosted by Anna Berezovskaya, an employee of the Institute of Engineering and Robotics, Master of Psychology, as well as teachers and specialists from the Institute of International Relations. The organizers noted the high involvement of the participants and their interest in continuing such meetings. "We see how such trainings help children to get used to a new environment faster, feel supported and become a real team. This is an important step for successful studies and comfortable living away from home," stressed Anna.
Conducting such trainings is important for foreign students, as it helps to reduce anxiety in the new socio-cultural environment, overcome linguistic and psychological barriers, and also contributes to successful integration into the educational space of the university and Russian society as a whole. Regular psychological support and adaptation activities are an integral part of working with international students at Vavilov University. The Institute plans to continue a series of trainings and meetings aimed at strengthening interethnic dialogue and psychological comfort of students.
