Foreign language learning of all kinds has lately become more popular than ever among youth and, therefore, for the youth of Uzbekistan, English has turned out to be that most in-demand language. This trend serves not only as a signal for the change in priorities in education but also expresses young Uzbek's desire to be part of the global community, say local educators.
Uzbekistans have incorporated English in school curriculum starting from 1st up to 11th grade. In addition to secondary education, there are also institutions offering higher courses in English at colleges and universities, as well as in specialized centers of language learning increasingly available. However, this interest in English masterly goes far beyond merely being within requirements.
About his work, Abbas Khan Mekhmonaliev reports to 'The Times of Central Asia'. He is a teacher at the 'English Team' language learning center in Tashkent. "There is much to admire about the new generation in Uzbekistan, especially their passion for learning English. In the past, many young people studied English mainly because it was a requirement for going to university. But today is different. Young people are thinking much more globally. English is not a stepping stone to an education that opens up a future career. Young Uzbeks dream of going abroad and succeeding, and English unlocks those opportunities, Mekhmonaliev explains: That focus is so much more than just linguistic ability-that's talking about a distant future when their lives will be better, fulfilled, and connected around the world".
Mekhmonaliev further underlines the fact that Uzbekistan perceives English as a door to international recognition. It leads other languages spoken abroad among avid youth. The young people are drawn to success stories of their peers who left for abroad having mastered English and succeeded in their countries.
According to Mekhmonaliev, several reasons drive this interest. "First, English is the key to good career opportunities, both at home and abroad, as many employers now require English. Second, access to global information, culture, and education, mostly in English, encourages young people to learn the language. Finally, studying or working abroad has become more attractive, and English is an important tool for achieving these ambitions and broadening their horizons".
She concurred with the same opinion, saying, "Due to the availability of international educational opportunities, better job prospects, and due to the influence of globalization, more youngsters are coming forward to learn the English language".
The figures also prove this growing interest. Statistics show by UNESCO that in 2021 Uzbekistan ranks fifth in the world with foreign students. Many young Uzbeks consider mastering English as one of the preconditions to get abroad and conduct successful careers in the international markets.
Of course, English is on the rise too. But if one is interested in studying or working in Turkey, there's another language, Turkish, coming into demand. In fact, by September of 2024, more than 55,000 Uzbek citizens had been granted residence permits in Turkey, a vivid indicator of growing interest in opportunities there, and thus the demand for Turkish language education.
Turkish language instructor Mohinur Qurbonmuradova also noted that most students study Turkish merely out of scholarly needs. "Ninety percent of students study Turkish just because they need a language certificate to get into master's and doctoral programs. It is easier to learn than English, and somewhat close to Uzbek", she said. However, Qurbonmuradova added that apart from attending classes for academic purposes, very few students learn Turkish for other reasons.
For many young Uzbeks, English is no longer just an academic subject; it has become an important key that may now open broader opportunities for education, work, and more. The growing interest in Turkish has become a harbinger of the intention to take advantage of international opportunities, especially in Turkey.
Generally, the youth of Uzbekistan is characterized by growing interest for foreign languages in all areas with respect to creating a better future that becomes increasingly interconnected and prosperous.
