The Importance of Preserving and Strengthening Traditional Spiritual Values Discussed at KBSU
An educational meeting dedicated to preserving and strengthening traditional Russian values in modern society was held at the Kabardino-Balkarian State University named after Kh.M. Berbekov. Shafig Pshikhachev, Mufti, Chairman of the International Islamic Mission, Plenipotentiary Representative of the Caucasus Muslim Board, and General Representative of the Coordination Center of Muslims of the North Caucasus in Moscow; Father Andrei Yeremeyev, Priest of St. Nicholas Cathedral in Prokhladny; and Artur Akhmetov, Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs of the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic, shared their wisdom and experience with the students.
Rezuan Kumykov, Head of the Department of Youth Policy and Social Affairs at KBSU, opened the meeting. He noted that KBSU places great emphasis on educating young people and developing a healthy worldview in light of modern challenges, when a moral compass is especially important.
Artur Akhmetov, Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs of the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic, stated that such initiatives serve as an effective tool for protecting young people from destructive influences by fostering healthy value systems.
The role of faith as a moral compass in life was the central theme of Father Andrei Yeremeyev’s speech. Guiding the young listeners, the priest emphasized that student years are a time for gaining knowledge and spiritual growth. It is important to explore one’s faith and culture while one has the opportunity.
«It is important to choose reading that develops the mind and brings benefit. Academic success requires tremendous effort and must be filled with spiritual, cultural, and moral discoveries. Only then will life become fulfilling and beautiful, reflecting both each of us and the larger picture of the world,» said Andrei Yeremeyev.
Mufti Shafig Pshikhachev addressed the younger generation with parting words, emphasizing that the foundation of a harmonious existence lies in fundamental values such as universal love for one’s neighbor, deep compassion, benevolent relations with neighbors, and sincere respect for the diversity of the cultural heritages of all peoples.
«Our spiritual world, culture, religious beliefs, and moral guidelines are all a single whole that helps us be individuals,» noted Shafig Pshikhachev.
The mufti strongly recommended that young people seek knowledge from authoritative mentors and reliable sources whose teachings are based on time-tested traditions. This approach, he believed, will serve as a reliable shield against misconceptions and strengthen their faith.
At the end of the meeting, the clergy held an open dialogue with the students, answering their questions.
The meeting was organized by the Institute of Pedagogy, Psychology, and Physical Education and Sports at KBSU. Institute Director Olga Mikhailenko thanked all participants for the productive dialogue and noted that such meetings help students develop a holistic worldview and strengthen traditional values among young people.