Rector Lenar Safin introduced to team by Minister of Science and Higher Education of Russia Valery Falkov and President of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov
The ceremony took place in the Emperor Ballroom on 26 August.
In his greeting, President Minnikhanov, who serves as Chairman of the Supervisory Board and the Board of Trustees of our university, noted, “Throughout its more than 200-year history, Kazan University has always been at the forefront of the development of higher education and science in our country. Based on the traditions laid down by great scientists, the university still makes a significant contribution to the scientific and technological development of Russia in a wide range of sciences. KFU actively and successfully participates in the implementation of the most important federal initiatives.”
He thanked the Government of Russia for supporting Lenar Safin’s candidacy, “A native of a university environment, he began his career here as a teacher at the Faculty of Law. Subsequently, filling various government positions, including in the Federation Council, he has not lost close ties with his alma mater.”
Minister Falkov seconded the President’s words and emphasized the importance of practical applications of the university’s immense potential, “Almost all enterprises, from IT to the petrochemical industry, are waiting not just for ideas in theoretical science, but for the ability to turn these ideas into specific technologies and products.”
Lenar Safin had words of gratitude in his concluding address, “To lead one of the oldest universities in Russia is a great honor. It is especially pleasant to work again at the University, of which I was a student, where I taught for 13 years and defended my dissertation. I understand the specifics of the work well and I expect to continue the chosen course for training in-demand specialists on the foundation of a classical university education. I recognize the serious responsibility that I have accepted.”
The new Rector’s term started on 19 August and will take up five years.