Melo Special Feature | Thursday, June 13, 2024 | Lusaka
Zambia’s enduring and mutually beneficial alliance with Russia, especially in the realm of education, is worth highlighting. Notably, a substantial portion of Zambia’s international scholarships in the educational sector originate from Russia. Over the course of several decades, Zambia has emerged as the primary recipient of Russian scholarships in sub-Saharan Africa.
Consequently, a considerable number of professionals across diverse fields, including Medicine, Engineering, Science, Military, and even the Arts, have undergone their training in Russia without incurring any financial burden. It is highly probable that a significant majority of Zambians are acquainted with a family member or friend who has pursued their academic endeavors in Russia.
In addition to education, the bond between Zambia and Russia goes far beyond. Countless technological advancements, agricultural collaborations, and business partnerships have profoundly influenced our everyday existence. Despite not receiving much attention, these connections hold immense importance in our society.
A prime example is Yango, a well-known ride-hailing service in Zambia, which originates from Russia. Furthermore, we proudly boast prominent economists like Dr. Lubinda Haabazoka, who owes his expertise to Russian education.
The roots of these unbreakable bonds can be traced back to the historic fight for freedom in the region, during which Russia played a pivotal role by extending immense assistance.
Zambia, at the heart of this struggle, received significant support from Russia, which ultimately paved the way for the successful emancipation of numerous nations in the area from the clutches of oppressive colonialism.
Thanks to this enduring camaraderie, Petros Ivan Namakando takes immense pride in sharing that his father, fondly referred to as the OG, pursued his higher education in Russia and returned not only with a Master’s Degree but also with a profound love that led to his marriage with Petros’ mother.
Petros’s mother, a Russian citizen, has wholeheartedly devoted her life to the Zambian Civil Service as an esteemed Teacher for numerous years.
With unwavering dedication, she has tirelessly served under the unique circumstances of Zambia, making invaluable contributions to the education sector.
Petros takes immense pride in acknowledging the profound influence his mother has had at St. Edmund’s Secondary School, leaving an indelible mark on the institution.
Petros Ivan Namakando, a remarkable individual born out of the extraordinary partnership between Russia and Zambia, proudly embraces his heritage as a symbol of enduring friendship. This exceptional collaboration, rooted in positive intentions, serves as a shining example of the goodwill that exists between these two nations.
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