During a working visit to the capital of Tatarstan, the President of the International University Sports Federation (FISU), Leonz Eder, and the Swiss Ambassador, Jürg Burri, visited the Volga Region State University of Physical Culture, Sport and Tourism. The tour of the university was led by its Rector, Professor Rafis Burganov, a corresponding member of the Russian Academy of Education.
The delegation explored the infrastructure of the academic and laboratory complex and learned about the training process for young professionals. Discussions focused on strengthening ties with FISU and developing university sports.
The guests were introduced to the Research Institute of Physical Culture and Sport, where they viewed current projects and high-tech equipment. They also visited a significant landmark on campus: the 2013 Universiade Museum.
In particular, the guests toured the concert hall and the training restaurant, as well as the fitness centers, sports halls, and facilities for adaptive physical education. Special attention was given to a presentation of the "Winged Leopards" (Krylatye Barsy) student sports club—a testament to the fact that the students of the Volga Region University are not only athletic but also highly active and proactive.
Speaking with journalists, FISU President Leonz Eder remarked on how much Kazan has transformed since the Universiade.
“Kazan has certainly changed for the better—and significantly so. Even back in 2013, there was already a noticeable difference compared to what things were like before. But I can see that the city has developed not only in terms of sports, but also in technology.
And, of course, young people are the greatest asset. There were a great many volunteers during the Universiade back then, and today, that number has grown exponentially. It’s worth noting that many of them are now working for FISU—a clear example of career advancement.
It is gratifying to see that the city’s high level of development makes it capable of hosting virtually any type of event, starting right now. We discussed the potential for strengthening our future cooperation with the Prime Minister of the Republic of Tatarstan. Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that FISU has included Russian athletes in all disciplines for the upcoming Winter Universiade,” stated Leonz Eder.
“FISU will be glad to return to Kazan, because that Universiade left indelible impressions and memories,” he emphasized.
During the visit, the guests were told that Volga Region University was awarded a platinum certificate of conformity as an educational organization under the “Healthy Campus” program after an audit by the FISU expert commission. The university took several years to achieve the highest level and became the fifth Russian university and the first sports university to join the program. The status confirms the safety and high quality of the learning and living conditions for students at the Volga Region University.
Text: Adelina Khramova
Photo: Pavel Zheleznyak
