Derzhavin Tambov State University

To teach the Russian language to African students effectively, we should take into account their linguistic characteristics. They often face phonetic difficulties due to the differences in the sound systems of our languages: they can confuse unvoiced and voiced consonants, soft and hard sounds, as well as omit sounds or insert additional sounds. This hampers understanding and communication. Consonant blends such as the blends in the word “zdravstvuyte” are especially difficult. Also, there are mistakes caused by the interference of the native language, which leads to wrong pronunciation and confusion of sounds. In grammar, difficulties are caused by declensions, preposition and case structures and aspect and tense forms, which is difficult for students who are accustomed to simpler structures. Taking into account these characteristics, we take an individual approach to each student.

In Russian language teaching, it is important to use a nationally-oriented approach, taking into account students' native language and culture as well as their linguistic competence, socio-psychological characteristics, and national pedagogical traditions. The native language influences the process of learning a foreign language at all levels: phonetics, lexis and grammar, and syntax. As students from Africa speak different languages and dialects, it is difficult to identify common problems in studying the Russian language. Nevertheless, Derzhavin University conducts consistent methodological work to improve the teaching of the Russian language, and we can observe positive outcomes in effective acquisition of the language by students.

Derzhavin University became the basis for my medical education. Here I mastered the Russian language that is so important for my career. Now I work as a cardiologist at Russia's best cardiology center in Moscow. I freely communicate with my patients and colleagues. I have many Russian friends who have become my second family. Russian is difficult but many things depend on the teacher. I had a great teacher thanks to whom I fell in love with the Russian language, Russian culture, and Russia.

I study at Derzhavin University under a Russian Government scholarship. In the beginning, it was very difficult for me, but thanks to my patient and attentive teachers, I grew fond of the Russian language and my university. I take an active part in university events and always communicate with students from different countries in Russian, which helps me learn the language. I would advise all students, who choose Russian universities, to be diligent in studying Russian, and they will definitely succeed.

My education began with studying Russian at the preparatory faculty of another university. Of course, it was difficult, but I tried to do my best. When I became a student of the Medical Institute of Derzhavin University, I continued to study Russian as I realized how important it was for successful studying. Now I help other international students who have just arrived in Russia. I am sure that they will love Russia and will be happy to study here.

I want to address all students, who choose Russian universities: we leave our country to gain knowledge and experience to come back in the future. We represent our countries, so it is important for us to be successful and be at our best so that our compatriots can be proud of us.

I am genuinely happy to be a Derzhavin University student. I am grateful to my Russian language teacher for high-quality training, thanks to which I can study and communicate. I am sure that good language proficiency will help me get a high-quality education and to succeed in my profession.

There are a lot of international students at our university. The Russian language has united us all, and we have become friends. We are grateful to the university for this opportunity.