The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Yemen to the Russian Federation Dr Ahmed Salem Saleh Al-Wahishi has visited St Petersburg University to discuss cooperation in the field of Russian as a foreign language.

The meeting at St Petersburg University was attended by a delegation from the Embassy of the Republic of Yemen in Moscow: Mrs Asia Ahmed Saleh Al-Wahishi; Mr Ali Saber Muhamed Ubad; and the interpreter Mr Ali Al-Hajj. The Yemeni delegation highlighted the difficulties that arise in studying the Russian language abroad — in particular, at the University of Aden (the Republic of Yemen). They turned to the administration of St Petersburg University for help in implementing long-distance e-learning technologies that make education more effective.

Valeriia Malomuzh, Acting Deputy Rector for International Affairs of St Petersburg University, suggested that consideration be given to integrating the St Petersburg University online courses in Russian as a foreign language into the university curriculum. She also spoke in detail about the specific features of foreign language distance learning.

St Petersburg University online courses in Russian as a foreign language are available on the Russian National Open Education Platform for students who have achieved the intermediate (B1) level of Russian language proficiency. There is also a two-part course in Russian as a foreign language for upper-intermediate level students (Part 1 and Part 2).

‘We know that the Russian language is very popular in Yemen — there are many Yemeni citizens who are studying in Russia. We are willing to provide instructional and methodological support to the Russian language teachers and learners. We have produced many Russian language textbooks and handbooks, and we have also created online courses for learners of the Russian language,’ said Ms Malomuzh.

Dr Ahmed Salem Saleh Al-Wahishi’s immediate response was positive and enthusiastic. He expressed interest in cooperation on the part of the Yemeni delegation.

‘We are very glad that we have met on this beautiful day in St Petersburg. Positive outcomes and sunny weather go hand in hand,’ said Dr Ahmed Salem Saleh Al-Wahishi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Yemen to the Russian Federation.

Valeriia Malomuzh invited the Ambassador to deliver public lectures at St Petersburg University in the following academic year.