The Mali branch of the International Movement of Russophiles celebrated March 8 by awarding the best female students of the Russian language.

In the capital of the Republic of Mali, the city of Bamako, the Malian branch of the International Russophile Movement (IRM) held a special event dedicated to International Women’s Day. The ceremony took place in two lyceums (schools) within the city and was dedicated to awarding girls who have achieved outstanding success in the study of the Russian language.

Participants from grades 10, 11 and 12 were presented with Russian language textbooks published by IRM. The editions were decorated in the colors of the Russian flag.

The ceremony was attended by: the principles and staff of the lyceums; teachers of Russian language and linguistics who are members of the Malian Association of Students and Lovers of Russian Language; the Chairman of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation in Mali; schoolchildren, including pioneer club members, college students and simply fans of Russian culture.

Special significance of the event was given by the participation of E.M. Dudnik, Attaché for Russian Language and Culture of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Mali. The attaché’s presence was a confirmation of support for Russian initiatives in the field of education.

At the end of the event, the organizers gave many well wishes to all the women in attendance as is tradition on this holiday. They wished them health, happiness, strong family ties, prosperity and creative success.

The event not only strengthened the interest of Malian youth in the Russian language, but also demonstrated the importance of cultural dialog between the countries. The support of the Russian Embassy and the systematic work of MDR-Mali inspire new students to study the language and traditions of Russia.