Dear colleagues, students, and friends!

I heartily congratulate you on the coming holidays – New Year and Christmas!

The end of December sets us up for summing up and defining new goals, tasks, and plans. Let the power of our desires turn into the energy of their embodiment! Let all the tests be adequately passed, and optimal solutions will be found for each task. Let you consolidate and multiply all successful projects next year, implement new ideas, and achieve impressive scientific results.

The year 2023 is a landmark year for us. It was declared the Year of the Teacher and Mentor by the President of Russia Vladimir Putin. For Saratov University, a university that trains teachers of all subjects, this is a time of special attention to teachers, professors, mentors. To all those who are talented in sharing knowledge and teaching love to it. May 2023 be a generous year for thoughtful students and talented teachers. Let an interesting and sincere dialogue be between those who share knowledge and those who receive it.

Due to the past year, we have been able to see the first results of our consolidated and very enthusiastic work on the projects of the Priority 2030 programme. These results have showed that we are moving in the right direction. And the evidence of this was both the interest of the region in university research and development, and the expert assessment of the Russian Ministry of Higher Education and Science.

Our university is not only a supplier of qualified personnel, but also a research and innovation centre. Professors, students, and postgraduates glorify the name of their native SSU, becoming the owners of grants, scholarships, and prestigious awards, and volunteers perform one of the most important tasks for today – helping compatriots, working at the headquarters of #WeAreTogether.

Seeing off the outgoing year, I want to thank each of you for your conscientious work, dedication, and perseverance, for your bold ideas and bright discoveries, for your support and perseverance.

May 2023 be the year of dialogue, talented mentoring, and pedagogical skills! I wish health, happiness, and well-being to you and your loved ones!

Rector of Saratov State University

Aleksei Chumachenko