Study in South Africa under the Scholarship of President of Russian Federation for Studying Abroad in 2025

From my very first days in the country, I felt incredible goodwill and openness from the host side. Upon my arrival at Johannesburg International Airport, the staff drove me to the campus, arranged a warm welcome with a traditional South African dinner – a delicious, juicy steak and local side dishes.

HySA Infrastructure is a high-tech research center combining fundamental research and engineering development in the hydrogen energy field. The staff consists of highly competent specialists with international experience and participation in global scientific projects.

The atmosphere is brilliant there. People truly value everyone's opinion, are always ready to help, discuss ideas and offer solutions.

The accommodation was located in close proximity to the campus, which made it safe and convenient to walk to the lab. The city of Potchefstroom turned out to be very cozy, green and peaceful. Thanks to this internship, I was able to complete the experimental part of my Ph.D. thesis.

The HySA Infrastructure (Hydrogen South Africa Infrastructure) center is more than just a university laboratory. It is one of three national research centers established in South Africa as part of a large-scale government strategy to develop the hydrogen economy, supported by the South African Department of Science and Innovation (DSI). HySA Infrastructure operates on the base of North-West University (NWU) and its activities cover a wide range of tasks in the field of hydrogen technologies.

The organization actively participates in international projects. One of the key collaborations is its involvement in the SATREPS program – a joint initiative of the Japanese government and partner countries, implemented through JST (Japan Science and Technology Agency) and JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency). This program aims for sustainable development through scientific and technological cooperation.

Furthermore, HySA Infrastructure actively cooperates with industrial giants. For example, Sasol, the largest chemical and energy company in South Africa, is among the center's permanent industrial partners. Joint projects are aimed at implementing hydrogen solutions in the chemical industry, transport and power engineering.

During the internship, it was evident that they know how to build not only high-tech processes but also genuine scientific communities here. The center's management is interested in developing international relations and creates conditions for young scientists to achieve real growth and integrate into global research.

One of the pleasant aspects of the internship was the friendly and informal atmosphere within the team. At the HySA Infrastructure center, they pay attention not only to scientific work but also to building a team where it is comfortable to work and communicate. Corporate events were regularly organized. It helped to get to know colleagues better, establish informal communication and simply take a break from the laboratory routine.

One such event was an outing where the center's staff spent time at a go-kart track. Go-karting was an excellent opportunity to change the scenery, compete in a friendly atmosphere, and feel part of a cohesive team. Such activities play an important role in building trusting relationships within the team and also facilitate the integration of new members into the scientific community.

Beyond the academic and research component, the internship also provided an opportunity to experience the natural and cultural diversity of South Africa. On weekends and public holidays, I had the chance to travel and discover the country's remarkable landscapes.

One of the most vivid impressions came from trips to the national parks. South Africa takes great care in preserving its nature and it is home to some of the most renowned reserves on the continent. During one such trip, I was able to see the so-called "Big Five" of African fauna: the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant and Cape buffalo. Observing these animals in their natural habitat is an experience unlike any other. It is not merely an excursion, but a true immersion into a wild yet harmonious natural world.

The safaris were accompanied by the insights of experienced rangers, who shared their knowledge about animal behavior, ecosystem conservation, and the role of reserves in preserving biodiversity.

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The internship was not only a significant milestone in my research career but also an opportunity to see an incredibly beautiful and diverse country. Thanks to a well-organized work schedule and the support of the host institution, I had ample time to travel and explore South Africa.

I managed to visit Durban, a warm coastal city on the shores of the Indian Ocean with wide beaches, a mild climate, and vibrant street culture. It was there that I welcomed the New Year: first with traditional dishes and the Russian President's address via live stream and then to the local countdown to midnight, fireworks and the sound of the surf. The contrast between the "wintry" feeling of the holiday and the summer African night by the ocean made that night truly special. 

Cape Town left a particularly strong impression – a city that seamlessly blends wild nature, architecture, and extraordinary seascapes. The drive along Chapman's Peak, hugging the cliffs and ocean, is one of the most scenic routes in the world. In the Cape Town suburbs, you can find wineries where you can not only taste local wines but also stroll through beautiful landscaped gardens amidst historic buildings and rolling hills. In False Bay, I managed to see penguins on Boulders Beach, and at the Cape of Good Hope, I even spotted a whale surfacing not far from the shore. 

These trips became an important part of the overall internship experience, allowing me to gain a deeper understanding of the country's culture and nature, and enriching the academic visit with personal discoveries and vivid emotions.

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