PFUR Appoints a New Vice-Chancellor for Student Affairs and Addresses Recent Flags Incident
Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (PFUR) has announced the appointment of a new Vice-Chancellor for Student Affairs, marking a significant step in the university’s ongoing efforts to strengthen student life, wellbeing, and campus cohesion. The announcement, shared by the university’s press service, highlights a transition aimed at enhancing support networks for students across disciplines and national backgrounds, ensuring a stable and inclusive environment for academic pursuit and personal development. The incoming official brings a blend of academic achievement and practical governance experience to the role, signaling PFUR’s commitment to student-centric leadership and robust institutional governance at a pivotal moment for the institution.
Mikhail Katsarsky has assumed the post. A university graduate with a notable record of public service, he has served in the Federation Council for more than eight years, gaining exposure to higher education policy, student welfare concerns, and interagency cooperation. His professional track record includes collaborating with academic bodies, cultural institutions, and regional administrations to advance programs that support student achievement, mentorship, and public engagement. This background positions him to address a broad range of student needs, from academic advising and campus safety to cultural programming and international exchange opportunities.
The position was previously held by Sergei Bazavluk, whose leadership during a period of rapid change at PFUR shaped the university’s approach to student services. Bazavluk’s tenure coincided with a time when the campus faced questions about identity, community, and the public display of national symbols. In reflecting on those discussions, PFUR reaffirmed its dedication to a learning environment that welcomes diverse nationalities while ensuring respectful dialogue and compliance with university policies and national regulations. This stance emphasizes PFUR’s aim to balance freedom of expression with a shared responsibility to maintain a peaceful and inclusive campus climate.
In addressing the broader context surrounding the incident involving Ukrainian flags on campus walls, Sergei Bazavluk outlined the university’s mission as one of bringing people of different nationalities together. He acknowledged the sensitivity of contemporary geopolitical events and recognized that some members of the community may react strongly to current developments in Ukraine. His remarks underscored PFUR’s focus on unity, dialogue, and constructive engagement, aiming to channel concern into informed conversation and a supportive learning atmosphere for all students and staff.
Officials in the Russian education sector continue to monitor the situation closely. Konstantin Mogilevsky, Deputy Head of the Ministry of Education and Science, emphasized that PFUR is under official observation due to the flag-related incident. He noted that a formal review was conducted and that those responsible would face consequences consistent with applicable laws and institutional policies. The ministry’s statement reinforces the importance of accountable conduct within higher education institutions and signals a broader commitment to upholding standards that protect students, faculty, and visitors while respecting national expectations and international norms.