Story by Fungai Jachi
THE inaugural Russia-Zimbabwe Food, Language and Cultural Festival, which kicked off in Harare this Monday, has been described as an important platform to foster and strengthen cultural relations between the two countries.
The event attracted learners from across Zimbabwe and Russia, with festivities including music, dance, cuisine, and language exhibitions designed to promote greater understanding between peoples.
Head of the Department of International Cooperation at Perm State Humanitarian and Pedagogical University of Russia, Ms Anastasia Vertianova, underscored the festival’s role in fostering mutual respect.
“Our relations date back a long time ago and this festival aims to strengthen the already existing ties. A lot of activities will be done and it will be a great platform to learn from each other.”
The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Honourable Torerai Moyo, who officially opened the festival, said the fiesta fosters cross-cultural understanding, expressions and exchange, promoting unity in diversity.
“Through the festival, we can see the beauty of cultural diversity and its power to bring people together. Education must not only impart skills for the job market but must also instil pride in our tangible and intangible heritage. In this way, education becomes both a shield to protect our culture and a bridge to connect us to others. The festival is an important step in developing young people who are both proud of their identity and capable of engaging meaningfully with the world.”
Meanwhile, at least 2 000 teachers are set to receive online training in Artificial Intelligence-enabled teaching methods, with Russia also expected to send STEM teachers to Zimbabwe, an initiative poised to have a profound impact on the country’s education system.
