Russia has announced plans to establish 10 educational centres across selected African countries by the end of 2028 as part of efforts to strengthen educational, technological and economic cooperation with the continent.
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The initiative was unveiled at the Russia-Africa Media Forum ahead of the third Russia-Africa Summit, where representatives from Russian organisations outlined plans to expand skills development, maritime technology and industrial cooperation across Africa.
Vadim Lobov, President of Synergy Corporation, said the proposed centres would provide comprehensive support for African students interested in studying in Russia. Services would include assistance with university selection, preparatory courses, visa applications and support through graduation and employment.
Lobov said the initiative would be supported by a digital platform developed in collaboration with IVA Corporation to guide students throughout their educational journey. He added that Synergy was seeking partnerships with African colleges, businesses and ministries of education to ensure the programme meets local needs.
The project is intended to establish long-term educational relationships rather than short-term exchanges, with the centres expected to connect African students with Russian universities and professional opportunities.
In addition to education, Russia announced plans to expand cooperation in the maritime sector through the development of blue economy technology hubs in African countries.
Nikolai Shabalin, Director-General of the Centre for Marine Research at Lomonosov Moscow State University, said the proposed hubs would focus on technologies for offshore oil, gas and mineral exploration, port construction, underwater infrastructure, shipping, fisheries and aquaculture.
He said discussions were ongoing with authorities in Seychelles, Tanzania and Zanzibar to establish hubs tailored to their economic priorities. The proposed projects would also seek to support sustainable use of marine resources while strengthening energy, food and raw-material security.
Russia also highlighted opportunities for cooperation in manufacturing and technology. Dmitry Shishkin, founder of SHISHKIN Group and Putin Team Brand, said his company was promoting digital garment factory technology designed to improve production management, increase productivity and reduce manufacturing defects.
He said the approach could combine Russian technological expertise with Africa’s raw materials and workforce to strengthen local production. The company is also developing adaptive clothing for people with disabilities.
Meanwhile, Russian artist Alina Sanko emphasised the role of culture and the arts in strengthening relations between Russia and African countries. She disclosed that she had produced nine paintings depicting African leaders for the summit.
The organisers said the proposed initiatives would form part of a broader Russia-Africa cooperation roadmap focused on skills development, local production, technology transfer and long-term institutional relationships.
The planned centres represent another effort to deepen Russia’s educational and economic engagement with Africa, although the specific host countries and implementation timelines for all 10 centres have not yet been fully detailed in the announcement.
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