 |
|
(BLUEFIELD)--Mr. Anton Kuzovlev, director of a private foreign language school in Russia, spoke to Bluefield State College students during his visit to the region. His visit was arranged by Dr. Sudhakar Jamkhandi, Director of the Center for International Understanding at BSC for the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.
Speaking to students in Dr. Steve Bourne's International Management class, Kuzovlev described the challenges facing small businesses in Russia, and he reflected upon the "quality of life" improvements he has witnessed in recent years.
At his school, students learn as many as seven different foreign languages. In fact, all public school students in Russia are required to learn at least two foreign languages. However, the costs associated with operating his school present some formidable challenges. A burdensome tax structure (24.6% in business-related taxes, 30% income tax, and additional expenses of doing business) permit him to keep only about 20% of his earnings. "Business owners cannot keep more than $200 in cash and must deposit the remainder of their income in banks," he explained. "Then, it is difficult to withdraw the money from the bank."
The average income of a Russian public school teacher is about $50/month, with private school teachers and college faculty members making approximately $250/month. "There is a huge bureaucracy in Russia. It takes a lot of time to pass laws and effect change," he told the students.
Still, he noted that conditions have improved. "We now live in a democracy," he stated. "I'm grateful for the opportunity to visit this region. The people here are very friendly. I believe it is good for the younger generation in Russia to see how things operate in the rest of the world." Kuzovlev is serving as an intern with the Center for International Understanding at BSC, and he has also addressed Dr. Debbie Halsey-Hunter's Business Communications classes.
November 18, 2003
 |
 |
 |
|||
 |
|
|
|
|
|