English in Uzbekistan

English in Uzbekistan

Many young Uzbeks strive to master the English language. At many universities across the capital, Tashkent, many Uzbek students enroll in English language courses. For many, the English language is a break from the past and represents a new future. For young men, English language is a natural step in their business endeavors. As one male student mentioned, “The English language will help me establish strong business connections and make my business wealthier.” For many female students I spoke with they view the English language as a way to gain a professional career in translation or further their higher education pursuits.

Studying English has tangible benefits, which Uzbeks are already using to make a profit. According to the Caspian Policy Center, tourism in Uzbekistan has “nearly increased five-fold over the last three years.” Included in this increase, are tourists from Europe and the United States, and as more Western tourists begin to visit the country, Uzbeks with knowledge of the English language are able to create an advantage for themselves in the tourism industry, especially as tour guides and owners of tour companies.

Many Uzbek university students realize this, and that is why when English classes are offered, they quickly become filled. For example, at Tashkent State University of the Uzbek Language and Literature (TSUULL), there has been much demand for English language programing. TSUULL is the university most translators and interpreters study, and many of the students interviewed recognized the importance the English language has for their futures. As one student mentioned, “Without knowledge of the English language, no large corporation in Uzbekistan would take me seriously.

This insight from the younger, up-and-coming Uzbek generation demonstrates the growing importance of English in the business sector, especially in tourism.

Uzbeks take education seriously, with many vying for master’s and doctorate degrees. For many students, both inside the capital and also in the regions, studying the English language is a step in this goal to attain advanced degrees in the United States and Europe. Before, learning outside Uzbekistan was reserved for elites, but now that many universities are offering English language courses, Uzbek students from all economic backgrounds desire to study abroad in English-speaking countries