Kazan bids farewell to its status as Organization of Islamic Cooperation’s Youth Capital in 2022

A ceremony was held on 15 December.

The event saw ministers of youth affairs and education of OIC countries, representatives of various organizations, and young leaders from over 30 nations. KFU was represented by Vice-Rector for International Affairs Timirkhan Alishev, employees, and students.

Kazan was the first OIC Youth Capital representing not a full member country but an observer country. Over 10 international gatherings have been organized with 1,000 participants during the year. The most prominent events were OIC Youth Scientific Congress, Kazan Global Youth Summit, Holy Quran Recitation Competition, and International Youth E-Games Championships.

Minister of Youth Affairs of Tatarstan Timur Suleymanov noted that Kazan has offered an international youth hub concept for further cooperation with OIC. Several exchange projects have been implemented, including those for volunteers and journalists.

Mayor of Kazan Ilsur Metshin had words of gratitude, “It’s important that we find forms of communication in this challenging time. We create opportunities for our young people to grow. Today, we discuss the results of this year and decide on our further work together.”

President of OIC Youth Forum Taha Ayhan said the the 2023 Youth Capital will be from Africa, but the city has not yet been chosen.

“Kazan Federal University made a significant contribution to this year by organizing a number of big events,” noted Vice-Rector Alishev.

In particular, KFU hosted the OIC Youth Scientific Congress in November by welcoming 100 delegates from 19 countries. KFU and OIC Youth Forum signed a memorandum of understanding during the conference. The two sides will organize further events.