28 Mar 2023

The Russian Federation’s Ministry of Science and Higher Education has issued an executive order naming its Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University) after world-famous freedom fighter Patrice Lumumba.

Naming the institution after the Democratic Republic of Congo  national hero is a step towards restoring the historical truth of when RUDN University was established, says a press release from the Russian Federation embassy.

It explains that the decision was a result of joint efforts supported by the Russian Federation leadership and the public both in Russia and all over the world, including the African diplomatic corps in Moscow and RUDN alumni.

“Restoring to the RUDN University its historical name is yet another sign of Russia attaching special importance to Africa in its foreign policy and a token of its firm determination to facilitate the emergence of a new and just system of international relations free from colonialism and neo-colonialism,” states the release.

It says the event, which takes place in the run-up to the second Russia-Africa summit, will further strengthen the friendly ties existing between Russia and African nations. Ends