THE ROLE OF LANGUAGE IN FORMING STUDENTS' CULTURAL IDENTITY IN AN INTERCULTURAL ENVIRONMENT

The article examines the role of language as a determining factor in the formation of cultural identity of international students in an intercultural educational environment. Emphasis is placed on the philosophy of education, according to which the university appears not only as an institution for the transfer of knowledge, but also as a space for the formation of personal values and social competencies. Based on the works of Habermas and Dewey, the author emphasizes the democratic principles of university education, which involves the development of civic thinking and the ability to tolerant dialogue. The study analyzed scientific sources that highlight the problems of language adaptation, motivation to learn a language and previous experience of language learning as key factors influencing the process of a student's cultural self-determination. A comparative generalization of the results of Ukrainian and foreign authors was carried out, which reveal the positive impact of language competence on psychosocial well-being and the quality of intercultural communication. Special attention is paid to the implementation of digital educational technologies and blended learning, which allow for a personalized approach and expand opportunities for social integration of students of different nationalities. A number of recommendations are presented for universities aimed at improving the educational environment in terms of supporting linguistic and cultural diversity. In particular, it is proposed to develop language adaptation programs, intensify the organization of intercultural events and festivals, and provide appropriate technical and methodological support for digital platforms. In addition, the need to create a system of psychological and social mentoring is emphasized, which would allow for a prompt response to the needs of international students and overcome barriers in intercultural interaction. It is concluded that the formation of cultural identity at the university is a complex process that combines linguistic, social, and digital factors. It is in their synergistic combination that the potential of “smart education” is revealed, capable of ensuring the development of the individual in the spirit of a democratic, tolerant, and open society. Prospects for further exploration are outlined, in particular, an in-depth analysis of the impact of digital technologies on the formation of multiple identities and the development of methodological approaches that would systematically reflect the interaction of philosophical, pedagogical and technological components in the process of higher education.