Language as a mirror of culture: activities at the Department of Russian as a foreign language

International "Mother Tongue Day", established by UNESCO in 1999 and celebrated since 2000, aims to emphasize the importance of supporting the world's linguistic diversity and to remind of the role of languages ​​in conveying the values ​​of peace, kindness, and cooperation. The Department of Russian as a foreign language at Gomel State Medical University held a series of events dedicated to native languages ​​as guardians of cultural heritage.

Students оf the Faculty of International Students (group Ш-302а) performed at cultural centers of Sri Lanka and Pakistan, proudly sharing the unique features of their native languages, their rich history, and inseparable connection with their national cultures.

Так, студенты факультета иностранных студентов (группа Ш-302а) выступили в центрах культуры Шри-Ланки и Пакистана, где с гордостью делились уникальными чертами своих языков, их богатой историей и неразрывной связью с национальной культурой.

Student Fatima Eman enthusiastically told about Urdu, the language spoken in Pakistan, the history of its development, and the great writers and poets whose works in this beautiful language have become a priceless heritage. Students from Sri Lanka introduced their native Sinhalese and Tamil languages, delving into the lexicology of Tamil language, the beauty of Sinhalese poetry, and the richness of their people’s national cultural traditions.

I.M. Petrachkova, Head of the Department of Russian as a foreign language, emphasized the importance of love for one's native language and respect for all national cultures, and also spoke about the official languages ​​of the Republic of Belarus.

The events culminated in a touching exchange of favorite poems in native languages ​​– Sinhalese, Tamil, and Urdu – allowing fellow students to connect with the living spiritual, cultural, and intellectual heritage of their countries, carefully preserved and transmitted through their native languages.

Activities at the Department of Russian as a foreign language became not only educative events but also a bridge between cultures. They provided future doctors with a unique opportunity to become acquainted with the diverse linguistic and cultural traditions of all nations of the world and to gain a deeper understanding of the vital role of linguistic and cultural diversity, as well as the values ​​of mutual understanding and cooperation.