Vladimir Putin Meets Kaliningrad Students

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a meeting with 37 exceptional students from Kaliningrad universities on January 25th at the IKBFU Student House.

During the two-hour exchange, the participants delved into various topics, including higher education reform, the development of the world-class Kantiana campus, support measures for student families, preservation of historical memory, the volunteer movement, and more.

IKBFU student Lada Lazitskaya inquired about the significance of a higher education diploma in today’s world.

President Putin emphasised the inherent advantages of higher education for Russians, including increased earning potential. He noted,
A decade ago, roughly half of graduates believed they should pursue higher education, but now that number exceeds 70 percent.

He also observed a rise in the number of parents who encourage their children to seek higher education.

Student Danila Sadovsky shared the Immanuel Kant quote which became the IKBFU motto, “Sapere aude,” meaning “Have the courage to use your own reason.” President Putin lauded the German philosopher as one of the great thinkers noted the enduring relevance of his call to think independently of others.

Immanuel Kant is a foundational thinker. Of course, his call to use one’s own reason is as relevant today as it can be. For Russia, in practical terms, this means being guided by its national interests.

IKBFU international student from India, Makone Hrushikesh, raised the issue of expanding international cooperation. President Putin acknowledged the growing Indian diaspora and expressed the University’s and Region’s delight in its presence. He emphasised the need to address the mutual recognition of diplomas and academic documents.

Kaliningrad students posed a total of 20 questions to the Head of State.

In keeping with the IKBFU Student House tradition, Vladimir Putin signed a vinyl record of Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s “Concerto No. 1” as a memento.