Amina Shafigina, a student of the International Relations program at the International University of Central Asia (IUCA), participated this summer in an International Summer University organized by Kazan Federal University, which brought together young people from more than 30 countries around the world.

The programme welcomed participants from Central Asia, North Korea, China, Vietnam, Mongolia, other countries of Asia and Eurasia, as well as Latin America, Africa, and other regions of the world. Its international format provided young people with an opportunity to discover different cultures and traditions, exchange national food and souvenirs, and, most importantly, share their experiences, perspectives, and aspirations for the future.

For an International Relations student, participation in such a project provided an opportunity to experience international relations not only as a system of formal interaction between states but also as a process that begins with intercultural communication, mutual respect, and trust between people.

“It is often said that international relations are built at the level of states. But I believe they begin much earlier — with simple human connections. Meetings like these help young people find common ground, learn to respect differences, and build trust that can eventually develop into strong ties between countries,” Amina said.

International educational projects of this kind are particularly valuable for young people who will contribute to diplomacy, science, business, and public administration in the future. They help develop intercultural communication, global thinking, the ability to engage in dialogue across cultures, and international professional networks.

Amina also emphasized the importance of international youth connections for Kyrgyzstan:

“We are the generation that will make decisions and contribute to the development of science, diplomacy, business, and public administration. I believe that projects like this are an investment not only in our personal development but also in the future of Kyrgyzstan. The more friends and like-minded people our young generation has around the world, the stronger international cooperation can become.”

Participation of IUCA students in international educational programmes contributes to broadening their professional outlook, strengthening intercultural competencies, and building international connections that are especially valuable for future professionals in international relations.