On July 16, a meeting with a delegation from the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa, led by the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces - Her Excellency Refilwe Maria Mtsweni-Tsipane, took place at the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia named after Patrice Lumumba (RUDN University).

The South African delegation also included: Sunny Ndlhovu (Co-Chairperson of the Joint Budget Committee of the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa, Chairperson of the Finance Committee of the National Council of Provinces, representative of Limpopo Province, member of the African National Congress), Sindiswa Masumpa (member of the Committee on Science, Education, Culture, Technology and Innovation, member of the Social Policy Committee of the National Council of Provinces, representative of the Western Cape Province, member of the African National Congress), Mogodu Samuel Moela (member of the Committee on Law Enforcement, member of the International Relations Committee of the National Assembly, member of the African National Congress), Imraan Ismail-Moosa (member of the International Relations Committee, member of the Committee on Sports, Arts and Culture of the National Assembly, member of the Al Jama-ah party), Modibedi Findela (Head of Administration of the National Council of Provinces), Moloto Motapo (Information and Media Relations Officer of the Parliament Administration), Jan Mundel (International Relations and Protocol Officer of the Parliament Administration), Nomfundo Sonitsa (International Relations and Protocol Officer of the Parliament Administration), Sthembiso Thembe (Research Officer of the Parliament Administration), Milisa Sokatsha (Information and Media Relations Officer of the Administration of the National Council of Provinces), Mphele Makgolane (Assistant to the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces), and Zwelethemba Kostile (photographer).

The visit began with a warm welcome at the main entrance of the University, where RUDN students greeted Her Excellency and presented her with a bouquet. During the official talks that followed, the parties discussed key issues related to cooperation in the field of education. The Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces also signed the Guest of Honour Book.

One of the highlights of the meeting was a conversation between Her Excellency Refilwe Maria Mtsweni-Tsipane and students from African countries. The students asked questions about the development of education in South Africa, cooperation among African countries, and the role of youth in shaping the future.

The Chairperson emphasised that African countries must remain united - it is only through cooperation, mutual support, and the exchange of experience that the continent can achieve sustainable development. As a participant in BRICS, South Africa seeks to represent not only its own interests but also those of the entire African continent.

Addressing the African students, Refilwe Maria Mtsweni-Tsipane gave a clear message: "Use every opportunity to gain education, international experience, and new knowledge, because young people will shape the future of their countries. Be proactive, do not be afraid of new opportunities, and always respect the boundaries and cultural differences of the people around you."

This visit highlighted the ties between Russia and South Africa and reflected the role of RUDN University as a bridge between nations.