Breaking the silence: A girl`s story To every girl who has ever been told “you can’t”- this is for you.
Author: Baxshilloyeva Nigina Bahodir qizi (01.01.2026)
“Imagine being born into a world full of invisible walls — walls that tell you where to go, what to dream, and how loud you may speak. Now imagine breaking through them to find your own voice“. This is not the story of an ordinary girl. This is the story of a girl who found her voice amidst silence. From the moment she was born, invisible walls surrounded her: because she was a girl, her world was “too small” and her dreams were considered “too big”.
For a long time, she accepted these walls as natural, because everyone around her seemed to live within them. Yet, deep inside, questions began to form. And it is that very question — quiet, persistent, impossible to ignore — that changes everything.
Think about: If you had grown up in the same environment, would you have noticed these walls?
Days passed, and the walls seemed taller, stronger and louder. Every “you can’t” and “you shouldn’t” echoed in her ears. She felt small. Invisible. Forgotten.
Yet in the quietest corners of her mind, a whisper began. A tiny, trembling voice, almost afraid to exist, yet undeniably there. “Why must I stay inside these walls?” it asked. She started to notice things others didn’t — the way her dreams refused to shrink, the way her laughter refused to fade, the way her questions refused to die. And for the first time, she realized something powerful: these walls weren’t her world. They were someone else’s rules.
One day, she reached for a notebook, her pen trembling in her hand. She wrote down every dream, every question, every desire that had been locked away. Words poured out like sunlight breaking through storm clouds. And slowly, the walls began to crack.
Every time she spoke up, every time she tried, the walls shook a little more. Every “no” she heard became fuel, not a chain. With each step, the girl was no longer just surviving — she was beginning to exist. Fully. Freely. Loudly.
And then, one morning, she realized she had done the impossible: she had found her voice. Not the quiet, hidden voice that whispered in corners — but a voice strong enough to shake the world, gentle enough to heal and fearless enough to inspire.
To every girl reading this: the walls around you are real, but so is your voice. You are not too small. Your dreams are not too big. You have a fire inside that no one can dim. Speak. Sing. Write. Paint. Dance. Question. Challenge. Break. Build. Every time you do, you are shattering limits, not just for yourself, but for the girls who will follow you.
Your voice matters. Your dreams matter. And your courage is louder than any wall. So keep going. Keep fighting. Keep finding your voice — because the world is waiting to hear it.
“This motivational piece is small and simple, and I’m not even sure if it can really be called a story, but if even a little part of it has touched your heart or given you a bit of inspiration, I’m truly happy.
Baxshilloyeva Nigina Bahodir qizi Peshku Specialized School, Bukhara
National certificates: • Multi-level (English): C1 • Mother Tongue and Literature: A • History: B • Mathematics: C+
• IELTS Academic: 7.0
Awards & Achievements: • Winner of “Ingliz tili bilimdoni – 2024” • 1st place in English and Uzbek language at district Olympiads • Prize-winner of UBS subject Olympiad (English) • Holder of multiple certificates of appreciation and excellence • Early admission student with a total score of 189 points • Appeared on “Istiqlol TV”
Activities: • Founder of “Englishblog_nb” where she teaches English free of charge to younger learners • Participant of several educational camps and training programs, including “English for IT” • Actively involved in social, volunteer and street educational activities • Experienced in Telegram channel management related to education and media
Interests: • Learning foreign languages • Reading fiction and literature • Piano playing and chess • International education opportunities and teaching
The Role of Women in Society: Historical Development, Contemporary Reforms, and Future Prospects
Abstract This article analyzes the role of women in societal development from the perspectives of historical processes, modern socio-political reforms, and future prospects, based on a scientific and public approach. Women’s participation in education, science, politics, economics, and culture is highlighted as a key factor in ensuring social stability and sustainable development. Additionally, issues of gender equality and efforts aimed at increasing women’s legal protection and social activity are discussed.
Introduction It is impossible to imagine social development without the participation of women. At all stages of human history, women have served as the backbone of the family, the educators of the nation, and the moral foundation of society. In today’s era of globalization, women’s active participation is gaining importance not only within the family sphere but also in public administration and state governance.
The Role of Women in Historical Development Looking back at history, we can observe that women have held different positions in society across various periods. In ancient Eastern and Western civilizations, women were primarily active within the family sphere; however, there were also prominent female figures who made significant contributions to the development of science and culture. Historical personalities such as Tomyris, Bibikhanum, and Nodirabegim demonstrated that women possess not only maternal qualities but also strong leadership potential. Nevertheless, during certain periods, restrictions on women’s rights and their exclusion from education became factors that hindered social progress.
The Role of Women in Contemporary Society Today, the role of women in society is undergoing profound transformation. In particular, in Uzbekistan, protecting women’s rights and increasing their socio-political activity have been elevated to the level of state policy. Women are receiving education, conducting scientific research, engaging in entrepreneurship, and actively participating in parliament and public administration.
Ensuring gender equality creates a solid foundation for justice, stability, and innovative development in society. Scientific research shows that in societies where women are active, social problems decrease, while the quality of education and healthcare improves.
Future Prospects Future society cannot be imagined without educated, independent-thinking, and socially active women. In the age of digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and innovation, expanding women’s participation in IT, engineering, science, and technology is a pressing task. At the same time, women’s role in preserving moral and ethical values and in educating the younger generation will become increasingly important.
Conclusion In conclusion, the role of women in society is closely interconnected with historical experience, contemporary reforms, and future strategies. Only a society that respects women and ensures their rights and opportunities can achieve genuine progress. Indeed, women are the future of society and the moral and intellectual foundation of the nation.
Sevinch Farxodova Buxoro davlat pedagogika instituti Xorijiy til va adabiyoti ta’lim yo‘nalishi 1-kurs talabasi
Annotation: This article highlights the importance of gender equality in social development, the challenges to achieving it, and the reforms undertaken in Uzbekistan. It also proposes measures to promote gender equality.
Keywords: Gender equality, human rights, education, women’s rights, economic opportunities, legislation, Uzbekistan. Gender Equality: The Foundation of Social Development
One of the key factors in societal development is gender equality. Gender equality means that men and women have equal rights, opportunities, and conditions in all aspects of life. It is not only a matter of human rights but also an essential part of social, economic, and cultural progress. Unfortunately, many countries around the world have yet to achieve full gender equality. In Uzbekistan, while changes are taking place, there are still challenges that need to be addressed.
The Importance of Gender Equality Gender equality is not just about protecting women’s rights; it also contributes to the well-being and prosperity of society as a whole. Countries where women actively participate in the economy develop more rapidly because half of the population is engaged in social and economic processes. Moreover, societies that promote gender equality tend to have better education systems, more stable families, and lower levels of violence.
Research has shown that companies led by both men and women perform more efficiently, as diverse perspectives lead to better decision-making. Therefore, gender equality is not only a matter of fairness but also a factor that drives progress and productivity.
Challenges and Causes of Gender Inequality
One of the biggest obstacles to gender equality is deep-rooted historical and cultural traditions. In many societies, women have traditionally been expected to take care of household duties and raise children, while men have been seen as the primary breadwinners. These stereotypes still persist in many places today.
Another major challenge is limited access to education for women. In some families, girls are still not given the same educational opportunities as boys, and early marriage is often prioritized over their academic and career growth. As a result, women are unable to fully develop their potential in fields such as science, business, and politics.
Gender inequality is also evident in the workplace. Women often receive lower salaries than men, have fewer opportunities for promotion, and face discrimination throughout their careers. These issues remain major barriers to achieving full gender equality.
Gender Equality in Uzbekistan: Current Situation and Achievements
In recent years, Uzbekistan has made significant progress in promoting gender equality. More attention is being given to female education, programs supporting women entrepreneurs have been introduced, and gender-related legislation is being improved. Schools are encouraging girls to pursue education, and various initiatives aim to increase female participation in the workforce.
Additionally, the government has launched financial support programs for women entrepreneurs, and the number of women in public service is steadily increasing. These developments are important steps toward achieving gender equality in the country.
However, full gender equality has not yet been reached. In rural areas, many women still have limited social and economic opportunities. Domestic violence and gender discrimination remain pressing issues that require further action.
What Needs to Be Done to Achieve Gender Equality?
To achieve gender equality, societal attitudes must change. This transformation should start with education. From an early age, both boys and girls should be given equal opportunities to explore different fields and pursue their dreams.
Laws protecting women’s rights should be strengthened, and effective mechanisms for enforcing gender equality must be put in place. Employers should ensure fair working conditions for both men and women, providing equal pay and opportunities for career advancement.
Furthermore, respect for women should be promoted within families and society as a whole. Women should be encouraged to participate in economic and social activities, and they should believe in their own potential, seeking education and career development.
Conclusion:
Gender equality is not just a human rights issue; it is also a driving force for social progress. Ensuring equal rights for men and women contributes to the overall development of society, leading to stability and prosperity. Each of us has a role to play in this process—whether in education, the workplace, or within our families. Only by working together can we achieve true equality and build a fair and just society for future generations.
References:
1. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). (2023). Gender Equality Strategy 2022-2025. New York: UNDP.
2. World Economic Forum. (2023). Global Gender Gap Report 2023. Geneva: WEF.
3. **Uzbekistan National Statistics Committee.
4. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). (2023). Gender Equality Strategy 2022-2025. New York: UNDP.
5. World Economic Forum. (2023). Global Gender Gap Report 2023. Geneva: WEF.
6. Uzbekistan National Statistics Committee. (2022). Gender Equality and Women’s Rights in Uzbekistan: Progress and Challenges. Tashkent.
Effective Methods for Developing Critical Thinking in New Generation Textbooks
Abstract: This article analyzes effective ways to develop students’ critical thinking using new generation textbooks as an example. The study examines the role of tasks and exercises presented in textbooks in fostering students’ skills of independent thinking, analysis, comparison, and drawing conclusions. Additionally, the importance of interactive methods, communicative approaches, and creative assignments in the development of critical thinking is highlighted.
In today’s world, reforms are being implemented in every sphere of human life. Likewise, as a result of recent reforms in the education system, new generation textbooks are being developed for school students. Unlike traditional textbooks of previous years, these modern textbooks are designed not only to provide knowledge but also to develop critical thinking skills in students, such as independent thinking, analysis, and problem-solving.
In the modern era, the diversity of information is rapidly increasing. In such circumstances, it is crucial not to passively accept information but to reflect on it, assess it critically, and form a correct understanding of reality. Developing these skills should ideally begin in the early stages of higher grades in schools. It is encouraging that the current scope of new textbooks, particularly in the subject of the native language, meets these requirements.
Taking the 5th-grade native language textbook as an example, it is important to note the use of colorful designs and illustrations selected according to the age characteristics of students. For children who have just completed primary education and are moving to higher grades, capturing their attention is essential. The colorful design helps increase their interest in the textbook. In terms of content, the topics are designed according to modern educational principles to develop critical thinking, communication skills, and text-related competencies. The exercises and assignments encourage student engagement, analysis, comparison, and drawing conclusions.
It should also be emphasized that the audio texts included in the textbook directly help develop students’ listening comprehension skills. Students first listen to the text and then answer questions based on its content, expressing their opinions and drawing conclusions.
For example, in Exercise 36 (page 115) of the 5th-grade native language textbook, the audio text “If You Want to Win” is provided. After listening attentively, students are required to answer the following questions:
What were the conditions of the competition organized by the frogs?
Why did the audience begin to doubt that the frogs could win?
How did the audience’s attitude affect the participants?
How might the winning frog have responded to the questions from the participants and the audience?
These questions encourage students not just to retell the text but to understand the reasons behind events, analyze the actions of characters, think critically, and draw conclusions. The fourth question, in particular, requires students to demonstrate creative thinking and oral expression skills. Through such tasks, students develop a deeper understanding of the text, identify cause-and-effect relationships, and learn to justify their opinions. Additionally, students gradually develop the ability to make independent decisions without being influenced by others’ opinions.
Another type of task in new generation textbooks that contributes to the development of critical thinking is distinguishing between correct and incorrect statements. Such tasks activate students’ thinking processes and encourage them to check, evaluate, justify, and draw conclusions based on information. For instance, in the 5th-grade native language textbook, students are asked to carefully read a short text and identify which statements are supported by evidence and which are not.
The use of audio texts, related exercises, logical questions, and practical assignments in modern textbooks is an effective tool for developing critical thinking. Ultimately, this approach serves the main goal of the educational process — to nurture creative, independent, and critically thinking individuals.
Nilufar Ibroximova was born in 2002 in Norin district, Namangan region. She graduated from the Faculty of Philology at Namangan State University in 2024. Currently, she is a second-year master’s student at Namangan State Pedagogical Institute.
Integration of Play and Arithmetic Activities in Preschool Education: Modernization of Curriculum and Pedagogical Practices
## Author Information
Barnoxon Baxtiyorjon Yoqubova — preschool education teacher and practical specialist in mental arithmetic. Research interests: attention development in children, cognitive growth, integration of play and arithmetic activities, and adaptation of pedagogical innovations to preschool education.
—
## Abstract
This article examines the integration of play and arithmetic activities in preschool education within the framework of curriculum modernization. The study is based on the author’s practical pedagogical experience and presents a step-by-step model that combines interactive play, arithmetic exercises, and attention development tasks. The approach aims to enhance cognitive competencies and readiness for primary education, reflecting both theoretical insights and innovative pedagogical practices.
Modernization of preschool education involves updating teaching methods and curricular content to better support the development of children’s cognitive competencies. Integration of play and arithmetic activities provides an engaging way for children to develop attention, memory, and early numeracy skills.
## Theoretical Background
Play-based learning is widely recognized as an effective pedagogical strategy in early childhood education. Arithmetic exercises, when combined with play, enhance logical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Curriculum modernization allows these methods to be systematized into a coherent pedagogical framework.
## Methodology and Authorial Model
### Objectives:
* Integrate play and arithmetic activities into a structured curriculum.
* Promote cognitive and attention development in preschool children.
### Principles:
* Interactive and engaging learning experiences
* Step-by-step progression
* Adaptation to children’s age and developmental stage
* Integration of attention and arithmetic tasks
### Implementation Steps:
1. Initial attention and concentration exercises (5–10 minutes)
2. Simple arithmetic exercises integrated with play
3. Interactive game scenarios combining counting, role-play, and problem-solving
4. Reflection and reinforcement
### Expected Outcomes:
* Enhanced attention span and concentration
* Improved memory and logical thinking
* Development of basic numeracy skills
* Increased engagement and motivation
## Observations and Results
Application of this integrative approach in preschool settings showed measurable improvements in children’s attention, engagement, and early arithmetic skills. Teachers reported higher participation and enthusiasm during activities compared to conventional methods.
## Conclusion
The integrative model combining play and arithmetic activities provides an innovative and effective approach to preschool education modernization. It aligns theoretical knowledge with practical application, fostering cognitive and attentional development while preparing children for future learning.
## References
1. Vygotsky L.S. *Child Psychology and Pedagogical Theory*. Moscow: Pedagogika.
2. Piaget J. *The Intellectual Development of the Child*. Moscow: Progress.
3. Rubinshtein S.L. *Fundamentals of General Psychology*. Moscow.
5. Author’s own pedagogical and practical experience.
## Plagiarism Statement
This article has been independently prepared by the author. The ideas, analyses, and conclusions presented are based on personal pedagogical experience and a review of general scientific literature. The text is original, has not been published elsewhere, and is free from plagiarism.
Yoqubova Barnoxon Baxtiyorjon qizi was born on June 2, 2002, in Qo‘shtepa district of Fergana region. From 2020 to 2024, she studied Preschool Education at Fergana State University. Since 2023, she has been working as a teacher at Preschool Educational Institution No. 28, where she has been contributing to the comprehensive development of children.
Nurbek Norchayev was born on April 18, 1993, in Kosan District of Kashkadarya Region. He is currently a fourth-year student at the Faculty of Pedagogy, Shahrisabz State Pedagogical Institute.
BEKHBUDIY: CALL OF ONE HEART, ONE IDEA, ONE CENTURY
“Turon, what is your state, vying with the stars?
Thousands of separate heads—Freedom, why not come?
Find your own opportunity—Nation, why not rise?
Time will not wait. Will the heart not beat?
It is a companion to fear… Should I live like this?
Your death is nigh.”
(Najmiddin Ermatov)
Uzbekistan, my radiant land, the home of the golden cradle generation where the sun sleeps in your veranda when you sing a “alla”, where white “to’n and “adras” robes suit well, adorned with silk belts; the land of Mahmudkhoja Bekhbudiy, Fitrat, and Chulpan; a bright nation where faith and Islam are perpetual companions! My dearest sun-filled land, an oasis where the architect of the Taj Mahal, the engineer of the Nile, and the Imam Bukhariys originated; where spring whispers in winter, and gold blossoms in the soil! My heavenly nation, a pearl of the East, that has captured the morning shimmer of the sun in its orbits, a stellar land that has made both the sun and the stars fall in love with it!
My chest is full of pride that the great Turkistan enlighteners, who endured all hardships for the happiness and prosperity of this country and sacrificed their lives to lead the homeland from darkness to light, are my ancestors. The feeling and glorification of the homeland are inherent in the heart of every person who grew up on the soil of Mulki Turon. When talking about the brave sons ready to give their lives for their country, the difficult lives of our Venerable Jadids, who raised them in the spirit of the homeland, and simultaneously the dawn suns who opened the eyes of our nation, serve as an example for everyone.
“If we, the Turanians, spend the money we use for weddings and funerals on the path of science and religion, we will soon progress like the Europeans, and both we and our religion will gain prestige and development. If we continue in our current state, we will have nothing but humiliation and misery in religion and the world.” The people were in a deep sleep of negligence. Yes, these were the words of Bekhbudiy spoken at a time when other intellectuals were bursting forth from within, like a volcano, with the cry of “freedom”… The more we study the history, life, and activities of these national luminaries, the more they remain alive, and the unfulfilled desires scratching a corner of our hearts are reincarnated. They are rivers that have overflowed their banks and flowed backwards, untamable stallions restless in chains, the frothing blood of the nation, the life of enlightenment that has reached the throat in the face of ignorance. The Jadids are the new echo of the questions sought from the essence of the homeland, the tears that flowed behind the eyes of Mother Turkestan, whose heart was filled with lamentation; they are the very identity of this country, the root veins of New Uzbekistan. They were lessons incarnate, brought into the world to explain the value of the gift called life, the honor and respect of a human being, and what it means to be worthy of one’s nation and homeland. The goal of these innovators, who did not fit into the despotic system and had their own new world and ideology, was the noble pursuit of opening the nation’s eyes, achieving the days of progress for the people of Turkestan, reaching the world through educated national cadres, and building a free civil society on the foundation of enlightenment and culture. Striving to reform and renew a backward country, its education system, Bekhbudiy despaired with the “needs of the nation” in his heart, saying, “This path leads to a bad end; we must learn and teach,” and never lost hope for our present day until his execution.
Have you seen the softly rustling, burning candles in the dark night? They flicker faintly, continuously and orderly spreading light. This light has the power to illuminate the entire night. Mahmudkhoja Bekhbudiy was such a candle of light.
He selflessly sacrificed himself, like a shieldless victim, to return the sun to the dark, unattended heart of a slumbering nation. It was exactly Behbudiy who launched the wingless birds of the darkness of illiteracy into the sky of science, “drowned” the thirsty fish in the ocean of endless books, and acted as the rider for the unsaddled horses. Mahmudkhoja dreamed of seeing the Uzbek people on equal footing with developed nations, and he stood out among the mature Jadids of the period of intellectual awakening with his worldview and activities. In his view, the school alone was not enough for enlightenment. It was necessary to keep up with the times and world events, to be aware of the condition, and daily life, of the nation and homeland. Therefore, society needed a mirror in which it could see both its ugliness and its beauty. This need and necessity led Bekhbudiy to theater and the press.
“Padarkush” came into existence during this period. The author called this work a “national tragedy,” and it tells the story of ignorance and folly, where an uneducated child falls into corrupt ways and kills his own parents. Despite its small size, the lesson to be learned from it is extremely important. The life path and scientific and social activities of this enlightener, who tried his best to light the candle of the future in people’s hearts, are an endless example for us, as are his works and instructive ideas.
In particular, there is a lesson in Behbudiy’s attitude towards world phenomena. His discretion in distinguishing between friend and foe is immaculate. The evidence he provided to prove his views is strong. The weights of his balance scale are not hollow inside. That is why dozens of names of Eastern scholars and titles of works appear in the content of his articles. Since he knew Russian perfectly, he referred to Russian books and the ideas of Russian scientists. There is great pain, a great dream, and meaning embodied in the communication, awareness, and cry of His Holiness Bekhbudiy with world civilization, world scientists, and world-famous books. For instance, in his article “Islahi Tahsil” (Reform of Education), he wrote, “We should send students to Egypt to systematically study general religious and Arabic literature and learn the methods of education there.” In this regard, he freely expressed his recommendation.
Bekhbudiy is the star that defines the nation’s new path! Bekhbudiy is the gazelle staring into the far distance, trying to save its herd from predators! Bekhbudiy is the rope that fell into the hands of executioners and is preventing the innocent from perishing! Bekhbudiy is the compassionate soul worried about the lifeless, impoverished people, astonished by the populace that has even forgotten religion! Bekhbudiy is the love whose heart is burning while looking at those smiling as they die! Bekhbudiy is the tightrope walker carefully passing the pearl of knowledge from one heart to another above those silently watching! What an honor that Mahmudkhoja was born like the sun, with such dedication fixed in his body and soul.
Indeed, the Jadids were not ordinary people. They opened new method schools and created textbooks. They enriched our language with writing and linguistic units. They worked tirelessly, like swallows trying to awaken the sleep in people’s eyes. They went from village to village, knocking on doors saying, “We have brought knowledge, please accept it.” The pen was their sword, every letter put on paper served them like a soldier. They published newspapers and magazines, wanting to awaken the nation with only one thing—the truth. Prison chains, years of exile, and even the executioner’s sword could not stop them. All of them sacrificed their lives on the path of their sweet dreams.
Is there a greater, more magnificent deed than this for a nation? True, this enlightenment movement, which urged the future towards light and stirred Turkestan, encountered great obstacles, was erased from the pages of history, the national leaders were branded as “nationalists,” and the bright faces were blackened. However, neither chained legs nor bound hands could turn the Jadids, who have taken an eternal place in the consciousness of the young generation, away from the path of enlightenment. The secret of eternity lies precisely in this commitment and self-sacrifice. “Oh Turkistan, did you manage to preserve the second pearls emerging from the shells? Did you not accept with a torn and patched shroud those who honored you with poems that sang of your love in every line? Oh Turkistan, did you stand by silently when the riders galloping in the field of literature were whipped on the head? Did you not share sustenance from your fields and dastarkhans, becoming a ready meal for those who trampled your sacred soil? Oh Turkistan, did you ever throw the stones that muddled the water back at them? Even if evil deeds and the most sordid events occurred in your past, could you loudly proclaim the thousands of treasures of enlightenment, the priceless jewels of knowledge within your chest? Turkistan, every dream of yours has a unique secret, every night of yours is adorned with divine inspiration. Turkistan, we bow to every wind of yours, we cherish every flower of yours. We will shine as stars in your sky, we will pay our debts as children on your lands, we will be the generation that preserves your power!
In conclusion, our ancestors, who dreamed of seeing their colonized homeland among the world’s developed countries by fighting against ignorance and defending the nation’s honor, have achieved their goals today. Now, we, the owners of today, have a strong duty not to forget that we must realize the centuries-old dreams of our ancestors, preserve the land where peace reigns, and make the youth understand whose descendants we are through our aspirations, participation in reforms, and initiatives. Indeed, the future of New Uzbekistan is a glorious responsibility entrusted to our shoulders. As Bekhbudiy emphasized: “Oh zealous youth! The time is yours. Unite with each other, build societies, and serve the nation’s cause.””
Dilafruz Muhammadjonova is a second-year student majoring in Uzbek Language and Literature at the Faculty of Philology of the National Pedagogical University of Uzbekistan named after Nizami.
