In the warm and festive atmosphere of the Ekiet Children's Center, the "Wreath of Friendship" Festival of National Cultures of Kazan Innovation University named after V.G. Timiryasova took place — the culminating event of the project of the same name, aimed at developing interethnic interaction and preserving the cultures of peoples.

The "Wreath of Friendship" project has been running at the university for eight years and is systematic in nature: work is carried out throughout the entire academic year, including analytical, organizational, and creative stages. Its main goal is to unite students of different nationalities, create a space for intercultural dialogue, and foster respect for the traditions of peoples.

In 2026, the festival is taking place within the context of the Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia, which lends special significance to the event. The project becomes more than just a cultural initiative — it serves as an important tool for strengthening interethnic harmony and civic identity.

Throughout the year, the university analyzed the national composition of its students, formed student diaspora groups, organized thematic meetings, workshops, and creative and culinary events. Students presented their cultures through traditions, language, music, dance, and decorative and applied arts.

In the 2025–2026 academic year, representatives of various peoples took part in the project: Bashkirs, Mari, Khanty and Mansi, Russians, Tatars, Azerbaijanis, Chechens, Roma, Mordvins, Udmurts, Uzbeks, Armenians, Kazakhs, Chuvash, and others.

The culmination of the project was a gala concert that brought together the best creative performances and the results of the students' work.

A welcoming address to the participants was given by the First Vice-Rector, Vice-Rector for Research at Kazan Innovation University, Doctor of Law, Professor, and Deputy of the State Council of the Republic of Tatarstan, Igor Izmailovich Bikeev. In his speech, he emphasized the significance of the project and its role in fostering unity:

"Today is a wonderful day — it marks the completion of a long journey. Throughout the year, we have admired representatives of different nationalities at our university, studied their cultures, and supported their creativity. And today we see the result of this work. The most important wealth of any country is its people — talented, inquisitive, and hardworking people. A huge advantage of Russia is its multinational nature. It is a blessing when people are friends, learn about each other's cultures, and when those cultures become close and dear. The more of us there are, the stronger we are. When people help each other and rejoice in each other's successes — that is true strength. Kazan Innovation University is rich in such people, and we are proud of each and every one of you."

Igor Izmailovich also conveyed greetings from the Rector of KIU, Asia Timiryasova, and expressed gratitude to the teachers and organizers of the event.

The festival opened with the performance of the anthems of the Russian Federation, the Republic of Tatarstan, and Kazan Innovation University, which set a solemn tone for the entire event. The concert program became a vivid reflection of cultural diversity. The stage featured vocal and choreographic numbers, theatrical performances, and creative presentations by students and invited ensembles.

The audience saw performances by the Galatea dance studio, the Vdovina School, the Calypso ensemble, the Yagodki vocal ensemble, as well as numbers by students from various academic groups. The program was given a special flavor by national performances: Chuvash, Uzbek, Armenian, Bashkir, Azerbaijani, Roma, and others.

As part of the festival, thematic videos were also presented, dedicated to the culture of peoples, linguistic diversity, and creative workshops held throughout the year. The final part of the concert brought all the participants together and became a symbol of friendship, mutual understanding, and the unity of peoples.

The "Wreath of Friendship" festival has once again confirmed its importance as a unique platform where culture becomes a language of communication and diversity becomes the foundation of unity.

The project continues to foster an atmosphere of respect, openness, and cooperation at the university, uniting students of different nationalities into a single, strong, and creative team!