INRTU Celebrated Africa Day with 515 Students from 26 Countries
On May 23, INRTU celebrated Africa Day. The festival brought together vocalists, dancers, readers, and actors from Irkutsk universities. Students took part in a national costume contest and fashion show, organized a quiz, and prepared traditional African dishes.
It is worth noting that on May 25, 2025, the African continent marked 62 years since the declaration of independence from colonial powers. At INRTU, a discussion platform was held to reflect on justice for African nations through the concept of reparations.
According to Vice-Rector for International Affairs Stepan Bykov, the university first celebrated Africa Day in 2022.
“In the past six years, the number of students from southern countries at INRTU has grown significantly—from 34 to 515. Every third international student at the university is from Africa. We are proud that they share the rich culture and artistic traditions of their peoples.
Our African students have adapted well to life in Irkutsk and serve as an example of hard work and courage,” said Stepan Bykov, who appeared in traditional African attire during the celebration.
Garba Ahmad Yakubu from Nigeria, head of the International Student Council, addressed the INRTU community and concert guests. A student at the Institute of Aircraft Engineering and Transport, he actively participated in cultural and public projects and practiced all-style karate.
“Africa Day is a reminder of the unity and resilience of our nations, and of the path we have taken—from struggle and division to friendship and harmony. Our continent is home to over a billion people, the majority of whom are young and striving to build a peaceful future.
Irkutsk Polytechnic has become a second home for us. We are grateful to the university leadership, professors, and students for their hospitality, support, and assistance. Thanks to the care of those around us, African students are receiving higher education, making friends, and turning their dreams into reality,” said Garba Ahmad Yakubu.
The concert featured performances showcasing the cultures of Nigeria, Mozambique, Morocco, Cameroon, Egypt, Côte d’Ivoire, and Ghana. Indonesian students also presented a creative gift for their African peers.
The African Food Fest attracted around 200 guests. Especially for the event, students prepared traditional dishes under the guidance of chefs from the university’s dining service. Visitors were treated to spicy Jollof rice, a vegetable and egg salad, and "Zobo"—a sweet-and-sour drink made from hibiscus (roselle), honey, and pineapple.
Africa Day was organized by the Cultural and Educational Work Center, the Youth Policy Department, and the Center for International Services.
