«Interfest» festival was held at KBSU for the second time

The «Interfest-2026» international student festival was held at the Altair Student Center of Kabardino-Balkarian State University named after Kh.M. Berbekov. Hundreds of students from India, Egypt, Turkmenistan, Jordan, Syria, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Abkhazia, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, and African countries participated in this celebration of friendship, cultural diversity, and student solidarity.

Even before the grand opening, university guests and students were immersed in the atmosphere of a true ethnographic journey. Students from the Graduate School of International Education (GSME) set up national courtyards. Representatives from each country greeted guests in vibrant traditional costumes, treated them to fragrant pilaf, oriental sweets, and other dishes, and shared their customs and crafts. In just a few minutes, guests could sample delicacies from a dozen countries, as if visiting different corners of the planet. These lively, sincere emotions became the festival’s «flavor,» which all the guests later spoke of.

The celebration began with the performance of the Russian National Anthem. Rezuan Kumykov, Head of the Department of Youth Policy and Social Affairs at KBSU, greeted the students:

«I am deeply impressed by what I saw today. Each courtyard is a living history of your countries, which you have brought to our university with such love. For the second year, Interfest has proven that culture knows no boundaries when there is a sincere desire to share it. May 23rd is International Student Day at KBSU, and I am convinced that this festival will become not just a good tradition, but a focal point where true student community is born. Thank you for your joy, your warmth, and for making our university truly international.»
Roman Litvinov, a festival guest and member of the Kabardino-Balkarian Public Chamber and director of the Veche Russian History and Culture Society, shared his impressions:

«Today’s festival is not just a celebration of international students; it is in keeping with the Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia. Student life teaches us the most important thing: to accept each other as we are and to value our differences, not our similarities. May these years be a time of spiritual openness and true friendship for you. Peace to you and new joint projects!»
Asiyat Zhurtova, director of the Higher School of International Education, congratulated the students:

«Friends, I’m so glad Interfest took place! Look at all the colors, flavors, and smiles around us—you created all of this. Keep up the good work, and may our celebration only become brighter each year!»

The most active students—those who distinguished themselves in the cultural, creative, athletic, and scientific life of the university—were awarded certificates from the KBSU administration.

After the official part, a vibrant, multicolored creative force burst onto the stage. The concert program brought together a veritable kaleidoscope of cultures. Turkmen songs, fiery dances by the Kafa ensemble, violin solos, Indian rap, and folk dances from Jordan, Abkhazia, and India—both solo and group—followed each other to thunderous applause.

The evening’s highlight was a performance by a beloved student boy band. The group once again delivered: their energetic songs, strong vocals, and artistry had the audience singing along and applauding.

The festival was light and heartfelt. Interfest will definitely return next year.