Maria Zakharova at the National Centre RUSSIA: a student’s main task is to study

On Student Unity Day — 2026, a motivational meeting with Maria Zakharova, Director of the Information and Press Department and official spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, was held at the National Centre RUSSIA on 25 January. In an open dialogue with the audience, she outlined the priority mission of the younger generation within higher education institutions.

"I always emphasise that a student’s primary task is to study, and no one will offer you any alternative scenarios here. Studenthood is, first and foremost, a unique stage of life in which everything is geared towards ensuring that a person gains knowledge. The state, society and the country provide a unique opportunity to focus on learning. My mother always told me that I would never again have such a period in my life — later, everything would have to be combined with something else: work, home. Of course, not everything goes smoothly for today’s students either. Some have to work, take on part-time jobs or care for their families — everyone has their own circumstances. But one way or another, this stage of life is devoted to acquiring knowledge. That is why, despite the richness of choice and opportunity, this is what you should focus on," said Maria Zakharova.

At the same time, the official spokesperson of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that a solid education is only a foundation that must then be filled with practical meaning, live communication and continuous self-development throughout one’s life.

"Studenthood is not only about study and knowledge, but also about invaluable experience gained through communication, including emotional experience, which will support you throughout life. Even when it comes to public speaking, you can convince an opponent not only through strong arguments, but also through the power of your emotions and experience. That is why you should keep learning constantly, throughout your entire life. Every day new people appear, sometimes even younger than you, who know something new, and at times they know even more than well-established figures," Maria Zakharova added.

Student Unity Day at the National Centre RUSSIA was organised by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Russia with the participation of the Russian society Znanie, Rosmolodezh and the All-Russian student project "Your Move". The event brought together 600 students from across the country for professional networking, the exchange of ideas and inspiration. This year, Student Unity Day was dedicated to the role of young people in the country’s development and their contribution to science, technology, culture and entrepreneurship. An important part of the programme was also the official launch of the sixth season of the All-Russian student project "Your Move".