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First Cameroonian Student in Lugansk Challenges Mainstream Media's View on Russia

16:17, 31 August 2024

Christina Glazkova

Writer / Editor

The first student from Cameroon began studying at the preparatory courses of the Vladimir Dahl Lugansk State University. Sputnik Africa spoke with him about his decision to study in Russia and discussed international cooperation with one of the university's vice-rectors.

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The portrayal of Russia by mainstream media is significantly misleading, and the Russians are friendly, Douala-born Epo Eke Max Laplace, the first Cameroonian student to enroll in the Vladimir Dahl Lugansk State University, told Sputnik Africa.

"Anything I can say to my brothers all over the world, Africa and all over the world is that what the mainstream media told us about Russia is quite wrong. [...] Everybody here is friendly. So just give it a try. You'll have fun, you'll like it," he said.

Laplace wanted to advance his studies in management, and he believed that Russia was the optimal choice for him as in five to ten years, Russia would surpass other countries in development, he reckoned. Thus, he chose to study there. He found the cultural similarities between Russians and Africans to be significant.

"[I can tell this by] not only what I have noted as I am here, but since I was in Cameroon, I have been following RT; I have been following Sputnik; they have some [similar] moral views regarding their family and other aspects, like Africans," he argued.

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The student is currently in a preparatory year dedicated to learning Russian. Laplace acknowledged the challenge of mastering the language, but he believes that perseverance and diligent effort will overcome it. Following this, he will start his master's program in management and aspires to secure a job in Lugansk, which he finds "very peaceful," or another city in Russia afterward.

When asked whether he would recommend Russia as a primary destination for African students seeking education, he responded affirmatively, stating he is "100% sure" that it is suitable for those who are unafraid of challenges like learning a new language.

Alexander Klyuev, Vice-Rector for International Relations and General Affairs of the Dahl university, informed Sputnik Africa that the university is broadening its international engagements with both nearby nations and distant ones and that these efforts are showing positive results.

"The historically warm relations between Russia and African countries are bearing fruit. A citizen of Cameroon was the first to enroll in our preparatory department. We are pleased with this development. Naturally, we will continue to foster relations with other countries as well. Applications have been submitted from Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and others," he said.