The first-ever recipients of the Murad Kazhlaev Scholarships were honored at a ceremony held in Dagestan.  Salman Abasov and Elvira Mammadayeva, renowned vocalists from Dagestan Opera and Ballet Theatre, received these prestigious scholarships in recognition of their exceptional contributions to advancing academic music within the region.

Governor Sergei Melikov established the annual scholarship program, beginning on September 1st, to celebrate the enduring impact of composer Murad Kazhlaev on national culture, coinciding with the anniversary commemoration of his legacy.