November 2025, will go down in history as a significant date for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Free University of Kinshasa (ULK). During the official ceremony presenting state awards and prizes of the President of the Russian Federation in the Kremlin, Medar Bompoko Boquete, Chairman of the Executive Board of the Free University of Kinshasa (ULK), was awarded the Pushkin Medal, becoming the first Congolese to receive this prestigious award.
The Pushkin Medal, established in the Russian Federation, is one of the most renowned awards in the fields of culture, education, and the humanities. It is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the development of cultural and educational ties with Russia, as well as to strengthening friendship and international cooperation. This award highlights the importance of academic, linguistic, and cultural exchanges in strengthening ties between Russia and African countries.
Medar Bompoko Boquete was recognized for his contribution to the promotion of the Russian language and culture at ULK, as well as for his active work in strengthening educational and cultural ties between the DR Congo and Russia. For several years, he has promoted student and faculty exchanges, scientific cooperation, and knowledge sharing between the countries, contributing to the international recognition of the DR Congo.
The ceremony, held as part of the National Unity Day celebrations, brought together distinguished Russian and international representatives. The awarding of the Pushkin Medal to an African scholar, and in particular the first Congolese, is a powerful symbol of intercultural dialogue and mutual respect between countries. It also demonstrates the key role of education and culture in strengthening diplomatic and social ties on the international stage.
Award Details:
Awardee: Medar Bompoko Boquete
Position: Chairman of the Executive Board, Free University of Kinshasa (ULK)
Award: Pushkin Medal
Reason for the Award: Contribution to strengthening cultural and educational unity and developing cultural ties between the DR Congo and Russia
Award Location: The Kremlin, Moscow, Russia
This official recognition from Russia is not only a personal honor for Medar Bompoko Boquete but also an important symbol for the DR Congo, demonstrating the country’s achievements in education, culture, and scientific cooperation. The award opens new opportunities for academic and cultural interaction between Congolese and Russian institutions and inspires future generations to develop similar initiatives.
The awarding of the Pushkin Medal to Medar Bompoko Boquete was a historic event in relations between the DR Congo and Russia and symbolizes the long-term strengthening of cultural and educational ties between the two countries.
Source: Kestér Kenn Klomegâh | Contributor| Russia
