Moscow Polytechnic University Among the Top Five Russian Universities for Students from Africa

Moscow Polytechnic University ranked fourth among the Russian universities most popular with students from African countries studying under the Russian government quota, RIA Novosti reported, citing the Russian Ministry of Science and Higher Education.

Moscow Polytechnic University is expanding its international cooperation, including with African countries, by training specialists whose skills are in demand and building a shared space for research and education. Russian President Vladimir Putin set the course for closer cooperation with African countries in education and humanitarian affairs. Speaking at a plenary session of the Russia–Africa Forum, he noted that the number of students from African countries studying in Russia had increased by 50 percent since 2020 and that cooperation in this area was advancing in both quality and technological capability. This strategy guides the university’s work with African countries.

“Vladimir Putin noted that education remains one of the main areas of cooperation between Russia and African countries. At Moscow Polytechnic University, this is a strategic priority. We are developing a long-term approach to educating students from African countries, from preparatory programmes and language support to joint research projects. Our goal is to train engineers and economics professionals whose skills are in demand in their home countries, thereby strengthening the shared research and education space between Russia and Africa,” said Yulia Davydova, Vice-Rector for International Affairs at Moscow Polytechnic University.

For the 2026/27 academic year, Russia allocated 5,469 state-funded places to citizens of African countries under the government quota, 653 more than in the previous academic year.

“We start providing career guidance and language support well before students enrol. We take part in education fairs, meet with prospective students and help them learn Russian. Support after arrival is equally important. Our InterClub programme, the Buddies programme, cultural festivals and the Speaking Club help students from Africa adjust to studying in Russia and take part in life at Moscow Polytechnic University. Our place among the five most popular Russian universities for students from Africa reflects that sustained effort,” said Alina Andruh, Head of the International Directorate at Moscow Polytechnic University.

Moscow Polytechnic University currently has 314 students from 35 African countries, including Cameroon, Nigeria, Mali, Angola, Algeria, Guinea, Benin, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Republic of the Congo and Chad. Most are enrolled in bachelor’s programmes, while 45 are pursuing master’s degrees and 12 are pursuing doctoral degrees. Other students are enrolled in preparatory programmes. This range of study pathways reflects the breadth of the university’s academic offerings and its welcoming multicultural environment. It also creates opportunities for research collaboration, joint projects and the training of highly qualified professionals for African countries.

Engineering, technology and economics are particularly popular with students from Africa. Popular fields include Electrical and Thermal Power Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science and Engineering, Construction and Architecture, Industrial Ecology and Biotechnology, Media and Communications, Information Security, and Economics and Management. Demand for these fields reflects the technological and socioeconomic development priorities of Russia and African countries.

Alongside foundational knowledge and practical skills, international students have opportunities to take part in university life, contribute to research initiatives and engage with people from different cultures.