The Moscow State University (MSU) is set to mark its 270th anniversary on January 25, 2025, coinciding with Tatyana Day, which also celebrates Russian Student Day. The main event will be held at the esteemed State Kremlin Palace, but the celebrations have already kicked off with various gatherings of leading scholars, public figures, and partners at the university.
Among the distinguished guests at the ceremony will be Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is expected to play a significant role. On January 24, just one day before the official anniversary, the central MSU campus on Vorobyovy Gory hosted numerous events aimed at recognizing outstanding young staff members, graduate students, and students who have excelled in research with special scholarships. During the celebrations, the renowned Lomonosov and Shuvalov awards were also conferred upon notable researchers.
The importance of MSU's contributions to Russian education and science was underlined when President Putin awarded the university the Order of Courage for its exceptional service and contributions to preparing highly qualified specialists. Putin stated, "Moscow State University should remain the main training ground, nurturing real leaders for the science and education of our country," as reported by the Kremlin.
At the events leading up to the anniversary, which took place on January 24, guests were treated to concerts and heartfelt remarks from MSU's current rector, Viktor Sadovnichy. Rector Sadovnichy spoke about the university's achievements over the years and reinforced the importance of continuing MSU's legacy of academic excellence.
During his visit to the MSU Museum, President Putin, accompanied by Rector Sadovnichy, viewed significant relics including the imperial decree by Empress Elizabeth Petrovna establishing the university back in 1755, and Alexander I's confirmation of its first charter from 1804. During this visit, Putin expressed his satisfaction at recognizing both the honor and the juristic importance of MSU's historical impact on academia and research.
"I sincerely congratulate the staff of MSU on both receiving the Order of Courage and the anniversary we will mark tomorrow, January 25," said President Putin. He emphasized again the pivotal role the university has played throughout the past 270 years, stating, "Half of the domestic Nobel laureates either studied or worked at MGOU," underscoring its monumental legacy.
Indeed, the university's impact extends beyond borders as it spawned around 60 universities, significantly influencing the educational system of the country, such as Sechenov University, MGIMO, and MFTI. Putin remarked on the leading role MSU has today, shaping and guiding domestic higher education and contributing to its evolution. He pointed out the necessity of fostering the accomplishments of past generations of scholars, stressing the importance of being steadfast and adaptive to acquire new strengths from their educational methods, always aiming to maintain foundational values.
Looking forward, President Putin conveyed the need for Russian universities, particularly MSU, to continue fostering future leaders for diverse fields including education, industry, and governance. He quoted reflections from 1855, noting, "The task of Russian universities is great, sacred, and inexhaustible," affirming the relevance of this statement for contemporary challenges faced by Russia.
Concluding his remarks, Putin extended his gratitude to the university's faculty and staff, urging them to continue their meaningful work. With over 44,000 students, more than 4,000 postgraduates, and diverse faculties, MSU stands as a beacon of education, innovation, and scientific inquiry.
The celebrations of MSU's 270th anniversary not only commemorate its past but also set the stage for its future contributions to Russian society and the global academic community.