The growing importance of English in Uzbekistan

The growing importance of English in Uzbekistan

As Uzbekistan becomes more open, Uzbeks, especially university students, are embracing the United States and the rest of the Western world. The most effective and beneficial way young Uzbeks are welcoming and engaging with these new relationships is through the English language.

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

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.

Today, Uzbekistan has a scholarship for master’s students through the Karimov Foundation. Upon completion, students are also required to return to Uzbekistan, but there is no requirement to work for the government. While some students have begun to work for the government, there is not enough data or personal testimonies to understand the impacts. However, any Western educated Uzbek would undoubtedly bring back some ideas to the country to help further its democracy-building endeavors.

the United States and Great Britain have had much more luck advancing their interests through the English language. This is evident in the education policy of Uzbekistan. Starting from the lowest levels of school, young Uzbeks are now taught the English language and many universities in the capital teach in the English language or have significant English-language departments. Both nations also have learning centers throughout the country and offer free English discussions at their embassies.

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