Chennai, Oct. 2024
A group of 21 students from the Embassy of India School in Moscow, recently took part in an educational career orientation initiative that offered a deep dive into the fields of biotechnology and medicine. This landmark opportunity, part of the Moscow City Tourism Committee’s ‘City of Discoveries’ project, marks the first time English-speaking students from India have experienced this advanced program.
The students explored key medical and technological sites, including the prestigious Skolkovo medical cluster, where they gained hands-on experience working with medical robot simulators. At the “House of Polymers,” the group learned about the latest developments in synthetic materials and their applications in modern medicine. The tour also included a visit to the newly opened “Atom” Museum at VDNKh, where students were introduced to the vital role of nuclear power in healthcare.
In addition to exploring cutting-edge innovations, the students attended a foresight session titled “Constructors of the Future.” This interactive discussion allowed them to brainstorm how the medical and technological landscape in Moscow—and around the world—might evolve in the coming decades. Popular ideas included teleportation and cloning, reflecting the students’ imaginative and forward-thinking approach to the future of science.
A key feature of the program is its focus on career guidance, helping students better understand the professions of the future, the skills they require, and where to study for them.
India-Russia Educational Exchange Growing Stronger
The educational ties between India and Russia have been steadily growing. As per the statistics, currently, over 25,000 Indian students are studying in Russian universities, with medicine and engineering being the most sought-after fields of study. Many of these students are enrolled in prestigious Russian medical schools, drawn by the high-quality education, advanced technologies, and affordable fees compared to other countries.
Russia’s prominence in STEM fields, including biotechnology and medicine, continues to attract Indian students. Collaborative programs between Indian and Russian institutions have also facilitated cultural and academic exchange, further cementing educational ties between the two nations.
The inclusion of Indian students in Moscow’s “City of Discoveries” project reflects the broader goal of promoting global educational cooperation. As Moscow’s educational institutions open their doors to international students, India has emerged as a key partner, with plans to expand the scope of exchange programs in the coming years.
A Global Vision for Educational Tourism
The ‘City of Discoveries’ project, launched in 2020, offers students from 13 to 17 years old the chance to explore eight specialized career tracks, including ‘Biotechnology and Biomedicine,’ ‘Transport and Space,’ and ‘Digital Technologies.’ The program’s adaptability has been key to its success, and this year it has broadened its scope by including English-speaking students in a pilot project.
Designed to inspire students to explore in-demand professions, the project’s international reach is expected to expand, with educational tours becoming available for purchase through tour operators, offering Indian students an unparalleled opportunity to gain insight into Russia’s most innovative industries.
During the tour, the Skolkovo medical cluster played a vital role, showcasing advanced technologies and offering students a glimpse into the future of healthcare. Ayrat Mullakhmetov, Project manager of Skolkovo medical cluster commented, “We are focused on creating a high-tech ecosystem for the development of biotechnology in Russia, ensuring that scientific achievements swiftly transition into clinical practice.”
While international collaborations have primarily been with OECD member countries, plans to extend partnerships to BRICS nations, including India, are underway, signaling the potential for increased educational and medical cooperation between India and Russia.
As the ‘City of Discoveries’ project continues to grow, the inclusion of students from India highlights Moscow’s dedication to fostering global partnerships in education, healthcare, and science.
