In Almaty Management University (Kazakhstan) the International Conference "The role of universities in the development of civil society" has been held. Kazakhstan and international experts, leaders of civil society, representatives of diplomatic missions and universities took part in the forum.

Derzhavin University was represented by Natalia Ershova, Director of the Resource-Methodological Center for Interethnic Cooperation. She spoke about the experience of the University in shaping civic activism among foreign students and their integration into Russian volunteering.

The conference participants discussed the impact of universities on the development of civil society, and also determined the role of universities in achieving the UN development goals, in training non-profit sector specialists and others.

Nurzhan Alzhanova, Director of the Center for Social Entrepreneurship of Almaty Management University noted the unique experience of the Tambov State University in the formation of civic activity among foreign students and their integration into volunteer activities.

TSU foreign students carry out systematic work aimed at the prevention of socially significant diseases and a healthy lifestyle. They help ambulance teams in medical accompaniment of sports and mass events. For several years, they have been holding master classes, popularizing the profession of a doctor among high school students in Tambov educational institutions.

The help of TSU foreign students to nurses in patient care, the support of sanitary and hygienic standards in medical institutions have resulted in the development of regulations for the work of foreign students as volunteers in medical institutions.

TSU named after G.R. Derzhavin and Almaty Management University signed a cooperation agreement, a memorandum of understanding and scientific exchange, and an agreement on the exchange of students.

“The issues discussed at the conference are of paramount importance for the modernization of higher education, the development of civil society and the education of young people with active citizenship,” explained Natalia Ershova. “The concluded agreement on cooperation will strengthen the relationship between our universities in education, science and culture.”