Higher educational institutions of Ukraine are interesting for foreigners relatively for low cost, and quality of education because our universities diplomas are appreciated abroad. In 2012-2013 Pavlo Tychyna Uman State Pedagogical University firstly in its history began foreign students training. Now full- time and correspondence departments started teaching students from Botswana, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Swaziland, Algeria, China, Azerbaijan, and Israel.

Foreign students study Ukrainian language, culture and history, as well as prepare for entering the chosen specialty, studying mathematics, physics and other disciplines at the preparatory department.

Foreign students study hard and also actively spend their leisure time. The university students’ council assists in it and tries to create an atmosphere of friendship, cultural exchange and tolerance. St. Nicholas visited the foreign students in the hostel that was a pleasant surprise for them. A real discovery was the participation in St. Andrew holiday celebration where girls and boys in embroidered shirts conducted various contests, competed in the ability to sing Ukrainian folk songs and danced. For all holiday guests, students prepared delicious national causes that everyone could degust and choose the best hostess.

Foreign students together with the University Rector Professor Nataliya Pobirchenko celebrated New Year. Nataliya Pobirchenko congratulated on the holidays and expressed hope that our university as well as the city would become a real home for foreign students, and the received education would help them to realize all professional plans. Candles, soft music, and sweet presents in form of houses were organized to help foreign students feel at home. Everybody shared their impressions of staying in Ukraine, plans for the future and most cherished dreams.

During the winter holidays foreigners together with Ukrainian students celebrated New Year and acquainted with unique colour of Christmas. They also celebrated Tetyana's Day and St. Valentine’s Day. IV year student of Foreign Languages Department Valentyna Cherevchenko conducted for foreign students an excursion to the local trade market, and also a "Master Class of Ukrainian cuisine". Foreign students had a wonderful opportunity to get acquainted with the folk traditions, Ukrainian cuisine, unusual recipes, and talk in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Such communication contributes to linguistic and cultural adaptation of foreign students, and cultural activities help to improve their language skills.

Sharing cultural experience continues...

Press center of USPU