Edinburgh University links with international institutions

The University of Edinburgh is continuing to ensure its world-class reputation by consolidating its international relations with India and Russia. 

The last few months have seen new drives to augment its position with the opening of a Russian study centre and the signing of a memorandum to increase joint research and teaching with the University of Delhi.

The Princess Dashkova Russian Centre, which opened officially on the 19 October, is the first centre of its kind in the UK and will become a focus of Russian study in the country. It is supported by the Russkiy Mir Foundation, which promotes Russian culture worldwide and will support Edinburgh’s Russian student community.

The University has strong historical ties with Russia and is currently partnered with three Russian universities. It is one of the top ten destinations for Russian students studying in the UK.

Dr Lara Ryazanova, a lecturer at the University of Edinburgh and director of the new centre, said: “It will help Edinburgh reaffirm itself as a centre for Russian language research and a centre for exchange between Russia and the UK.”

The University is also creating new links with India. In addition to the opening of a new office in Mumbai, it recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the University of Delhi, allowing students to benefit from increased language options. Delhi academics will be invited to Edinburgh to partake in science and maths training programmes.

First Minister Alex Salmond said that: “This office is an important step forward in Scotland’s relationship with India. Edinburgh’s base will help forge partnerships with Indian universities, businesses and government departments.”

With its large international student body and strong exchange links with overseas universities, the University has long been at the forefront of global partnership programmes.

In the last few months, the University of Edinburgh has proven its commitment to its role in the international field, launching several global academies that will work with academics from around the world to tackle problems such as poverty and the environment. New research and exchange links with countries including Japan and China have also been formed.