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The Name Returned
On March 23, 2023, the name of Patrice Émery Lumumba was returned to the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia. Lumumba was the first Prime Minister of the independent Democratic Republic of the Congo and one of the symbols of African peoples’ struggle for freedom and national sovereignty. The decision reaffirmed the university’s historical bond with Africa, which dates back to its earliest years.
The university bore Lumumba’s name from 1961 until 1992, when it was removed. Returning it was not only a tribute to an outstanding African leader but also a sign of the university’s continuing mission: training specialists for many countries, fostering international dialogue and strengthening cooperation through education.
From Historical Memory to New Horizons of Cooperation
In July 2025, a RUDN delegation led by Rector Oleg Yastrebov visited the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The visit, held in the centenary year of Patrice Lumumba’s birth, was an important step in strengthening the university’s ties with his homeland.
In Kinshasa, the delegation met with representatives of Congolese educational institutions and signed cooperation agreements, opening up new opportunities for academic exchange, Russian language study and joint educational and research projects.
Congolese Diplomatic Academy
Institut Monseigneur Bokeleale
Patrice Lumumba at 100: A Continuing Dialogue
On September 24, 2025, RUDN hosted the international academic conference “Russia and Africa: Legacy of the Past, Opportunities of the Present, Prospects for the Future,” marking the 100th anniversary of Patrice Lumumba’s birth.
More than 700 participants: students and faculty, researchers, and government and public figures from Russia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Discussions focused on the historical ties between Russia and Africa, current issues of international cooperation, the development of science, education and technology, and ways to engage the new generation of African specialists.
Juliana Lumumba, Patrice Lumumba’s daughter, led the Congolese delegation to the university. The values linking her father’s legacy with RUDN’s mission are freedom, justice, sovereignty and the importance of education for Africa’s future.
“RUDN: The Lumumba Century” — A Documentary
The conference closed with the premiere of the RT documentary “RUDN: The Lumumba Century.” The film crew accompanied the university delegation on its trip to Kinshasa.
The Lumumba Family Back at RUDN: A Bond Across Generations
Kahi Lumumba signed the Book of Honored Guests. He shared his impressions of the campus and said he was proud that his grandfather’s name brings together young people from different countries.
The visit showed that the Lumumba family’s connection with the university goes beyond commemorative ceremonies. It is becoming the basis for new educational and research initiatives in which history is the starting point for a shared future.
