Essay from Shavkatova Mohinabonu Oybek qizi

Shavkatova Mohinabonu Oybek qizi

Uzbekistan state world languages university

The student of group of 2517

The role of public transportation in improving tourism in Uzbekistan 

Shavkatova Mohinabonu Oybek qizi student of the Uzbekistan state world language university

Scientific adviser: Zulxumor Xatamovna Bannopova senior teacher of State world language university

Annotation

      This article examines the critical role of public transportation in enhancing tourism in Uzbekistan. It highlights three key aspects: accessibility and convenience for tourists, economic and social benefits, and sustainable tourism development. Drawing on the works of C. Michael Hall (2010) and Stephen Page (2009), as well as policy reports by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO, 2013; 2019), the study demonstrates that efficient public transport systems increase tourist mobility, promote regional economic growth, support social inclusion, and preserve cultural and natural heritage. The article argues that strategic investment in eco-friendly and well-integrated transport infrastructure is essential for Uzbekistan’s competitiveness in the global tourism market and for fostering responsible and sustainable tourism development.

Keywords: Public Transportation, Tourism Development, Accessibility, Economic Benefits, Social Benefits, Sustainable Tourism, Policy and Planning, Uzbekistan, Eco-friendly Transport, Cultural Heritage

Introduction

Tourism has become one of the key drivers of economic growth and cultural exchange in Uzbekistan. As the country continues to open its doors to international visitors, the development of effective infrastructure has gained increasing importance. Among various factors, public transportation plays a central role in shaping tourists’ experiences by determining how easily and efficiently they can access destinations. A reliable and well-organized public transport system not only improves accessibility and convenience for tourists but also generates significant economic and social benefits while supporting sustainable tourism development. Therefore, examining the role of public transportation is essential to understanding how tourism in Uzbekistan can be strengthened in the long term.

  1. Accessibility and convenience for tourists 

A well-developed public transportation system is a fundamental factor in improving accessibility for tourists in Uzbekistan. Efficient railway networks, urban metro systems, and intercity bus services enable visitors to travel comfortably between major destinations, reducing dependence on private transport and minimizing travel-related difficulties. High-speed rail connections such as Afrosiyob significantly reduce travel time and encourage tourists to explore multiple regions within a limited period, thereby enhancing the overall tourism experience. Moreover, clear transport routes, improved service quality, and the availability of multilingual information systems increase convenience for international visitors. As a result, effective public transportation not only improves tourist mobility but also increases Uzbekistan’s competitiveness in the global tourism market by making the country more accessible, attractive, and tourist friendly. Hall, C. M. (2008). Tourism Planning: Policies, Processes and Relationships. Pearson Education.

Inside the ‘black box’ of tourism planning and policy: setting a context

Tourism is now a major area of academic, government, industry and public concern. While it is now an oft-cited truism that tourism is the world’s largest industry, tourism is significant not just because of its size in terms of the number of people travelling, how many people it employs, or how much money it brings into a destination. Tourism is significant also because of the enormous impact it has on people’s lives and on the places in which they live, and because of the way in which tourism is itself substantially affected by the world around it.

The World Tourism Organization’s (1997, 2001, 2006a) forecasts predict that by 2020 international arrivals will reach nearly 1.6 billion. Of these worldwide arrivals in 2020, 1.2 billion will be intraregional and 378 million will be long-haul travellers. By 2020 the top three receiving regions will be Europe (717 million tourists), East Asia and the Pacific (397 million) and the Americas (282 million), followed by Africa, the Middle East and South Asia (Table 1.1).

International tourism flows and patterns do not occur randomly. They are the result of a number of factors including economic growth, cultural factors and access to transport. However, most importantly for the purposes of this book, they are also the result of the activities of states and their policies and planning strategies and behaviours. For example, at the most basic level international travel requires a policy decision with respect to the agreement of a state to allow entry. Nowhere in international law is there en-shrined a right to enter foreign spaces. Even the non-binding Universal Declaration of Human Rights only postulates a right of exit and entry to one’s own country (article 13) (Hall 2006c). Indeed, the right to control and restrict entry into state territory as well as to determine where people can travel within a country has ‘historically been viewed as inherent in the very nature of sovereignty (Collinson 1996: 77).

This chapter will set part of the context for the book by overviewing some of the key concepts of ‘planning’ and ‘policy’ and the relationships between them, as well as discussing the concept of tourism utilised in this book. The chapter will then go on to sketch the scope of tourism planning before briefly outlining the remainder of the book. 

2. Economic and social benefits (Policy and development focus)

Efficient public transportation systems generate significant economic and social benefits that extend beyond the tourism sector. From a policy and development perspective, improved transport infrastructure facilitates greater tourist mobility, leading to increased spending across various regions. This stimulates local economies by supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, including hotels, restaurants, and cultural services. In addition, public transportation development creates employment opportunities and encourages balanced regional growth by improving access to remote and less-developed areas. Socially, enhanced mobility strengthens social inclusion by connecting communities with economic and cultural centers, while also improving the quality of life for residents. Consequently, investment in public transportation serves as a strategic policy tool that supports sustainable economic development and long-term tourism growth. Stephen Page Page, S. J. (2009). Transport and Tourism: Global Perspectives. Even though there is an ongoing controversy over the extent to which tourism can be defined as both an industry and a service activity (see Leiper 2008 for example), 

it is widely recognised that tourism combines a broad range of economic activities and services designed to meet the needs of tourists. It is also evident from some of the recent studies of air transport (e.g. ATAG 2000, 2008; Graham et al. 2008) that the tourism sector is a broad, all-encompassing term which includes accommodation, catering, transport and ancillary services. Therefore, using the term tourism can tend to obscure the wider significance of the transport sector in tourist travel due to the tendency to generalise its role and significance. For example, Figure 1.1 shows that if one looks at the air transport sector as a component of this wider tourism sector, it is a complex amalgam of interests comprising producers and consumers, of which the airline industry includes a wide range of stakeholders.

The same can be said for other transportation sectors that are involved in transporting tourists or in the mobility of tourists. Likewise, if one then considers the interrelationship between air transport and tourism from an economic perspective (Figure 1.2), the wider significance of direct tourist spending on transport and the indirect benefits in terms of employment and other spin-offs is self-evident. All too often there is a tendency by analysts and researchers to overlook these fundamental relationships that become more obvious when an economic perspective is taken and critical relationships between consumers and producers are highlighted.

Consequently, transport provides the essential link between tourism origin and destination areas and facilitates the movement of holidaymakers, business travellers, people visiting friends and relatives and those undertaking educational and health tourism. Transport is also a key element of the ‘tourist experience’ (Pearce 1982; Moscardo and Pearce 2004) and some commentators (e.g. Middleton 1988; Tourism Society 1990) view it as an integral part of the tourism industry. 

3. Sustainable Tourism Development (Strategic Importance)

Sustainable tourism has become a strategic priority for countries aiming to balance economic growth with environmental preservation. According to C. Michael Hall (2010), the development of eco-friendly public transportation systems is essential for reducing the environmental impact of tourism, particularly in historically significant and ecologically sensitive areas. Efficient public transport minimizes private vehicle use, reduces traffic congestion, and lowers carbon emissions, thereby protecting cultural heritage and natural resources. Stephen Page (2009) emphasizes that sustainable transport not only supports environmental goals but also enhances the long-term attractiveness of destinations by improving the quality of the tourist experience.

Furthermore, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO, 2019) highlights that integrating sustainable transport strategies into tourism planning strengthens regional development, promotes social inclusion, and ensures economic benefits are maintained over time. In the context of Uzbekistan, prioritizing sustainable public transportation is therefore a crucial policy measure that can support responsible tourism growth, safeguard the country’s unique cultural and natural heritage, and enhance its global competitiveness as a tourism destination. Hall, C. M. (2011).

Policy Responses to Tourism Sustainability. Policy problem attributes of sustainable tourism. Sustainability is a meta-policy problem that has led to new institutional arrangements and policy settings at international, national and local scales. Sustainable tourism is a sub-set of this broader policy arena with its own specific set of institutions and policy actors at various scales as well as being a sub-set of tourism policy overall.  

It has long been recognised that the various elements of sustainability affect the capacity of public policymaking to provide effective sustainable tourism outcomes (e.g. Bramwell & Lane, 1993; Butler, 1991; Hall & Lew, 1998; Wheeler, 1993). Yet, despite the length of time the policy problem attributes of sustainability have been recognised, there appears little advance in making the sustainability of tourism more tractable to solution. Several reasons for this can be advanced.

Conclusion

In conclusion, public transportation plays a pivotal role in enhancing tourism in Uzbekistan by improving accessibility, providing economic and social benefits, and promoting sustainable development. As C. Michael Hall (2010) emphasizes, well-planned transport infrastructure not only facilitates tourist mobility but also supports regional economic growth and preserves cultural heritage. Stephen Page (2009) highlights that eco-friendly and efficient public transport enhances the overall tourist experience, encourages longer visits, and increases expenditure across local businesses. Furthermore, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO, 2019) stresses that integrating sustainable transport strategies into tourism planning reduces environmental impacts, strengthens social inclusion, and ensures long-term economic benefits. Therefore, strategic investment in public transportation should be a central policy priority for Uzbekistan, as it can improve the country’s competitiveness as a global tourism destination while fostering responsible and sustainable growth.

Reference:

  1. Hall, C. M. (2008). Tourism Planning: Policies, Processes and Relationships. Pearson Education.
  1. Page, S. J. (2009). Transport and Tourism: Global Perspectives.
  1. Hall, C. M. (2011). Policy Responses to Tourism Sustainability

Essay from Nurmurodova Masrura Xurshedovna

Chirchik State Pedagogical University

Faculty of Tourism 1st-year student

Father – Love Spoken in Silence

       My father never speaks much, yet his silence becomes the most reliable presence in our home. In the morning, he closes the door quietly as he leaves for work, and in the evening, he places his shoes neatly in their place. The order he maintains, even on the table, reflects his strong inner discipline. This silence does not feel cold; instead, it creates a sense of stability and reassurance. For my father, life is not expressed through loud words. He values action over speech and sees being a father not as a special status, but as a continuous responsibility. He never feels the need to highlight his efforts, because fulfilling his duties is simply a natural part of who he is.

      My father gives little advice, but every word he says is meaningful and timely. He allows me the freedom to choose while gently guiding my path, showing trust rather than control.

      As time passes, I understand more clearly that my father’s quiet nature comes not from indifference, but from inner calm. He chooses to bring peace into the family and carry worries on his own shoulders, protecting us from unnecessary anxiety. Sometimes I study his face and find support in his thoughtful seriousness and stability. He teaches not through long speeches, but through his actions. His life feels like a lesson written in silence yet filled with deep meaning and quiet strength.

      Today, I know that a father’s love is not always openly expressed. It often lives in quiet care, constant responsibility, and the unspoken words that shape a child’s life.

Essay from Dr. Jernail Singh Anand

THE COSMIC REGENERATION OF MANKIND

Dr. Jernail Singh Anand

[India]

The Great Disconnect

Heart is the radioactive matter placed inside the body of every living being, which receives and radiates messages to the cosmic divine.  In fact, we are, all the time, connected with supernal forces, through our breath, and we are a part of the manifestation of God’s creative magic. The scriptures want us to realize how we are a part of the cosmos, and how we should act, so that we respect that eternal bond. Education is meant to give us light, in which we could see, what we are, and where we stand, and what is the surrounding reality, and how we should relate to it meaningfully. But, education has gone overboard, and overreached its ends, so that now man thinks he can outdo his creator. Science and technology are treated as challenges to the divine authority. 

There is immense knowledge in the vaults of the earth, but it is not available to men in its entirety because earth reveals its mysteries only to people who have the capability to assimilate, and look beyond their self, and see the overflowing reality. The cosmos tests the beneficiaries of its intellectual affluence, and very few stand the severe test of elements, which ensure that after getting knowledge, it will be used, not for the gratification of one person, but for the betterment of the creation. This is the point at which most of the seekers falter and lose to infernal forces. Divinity does not trust people who show lack of higher purpose and whose passion has no higher perspective. That is why, whatever more or less knowledge we have, it is being directed towards destruction of nature and ultimately, man will land himself in a state where he will die of suffocation as the clean air will not be available for breathing. 

This is how education and limited understanding of scriptures has brought us to a situation in which we are in a state of disconnect. We have our own wisdom which is in contention with the divine wisdom. Today men believe that man is born to live for himself, and die for himself, in utter disregard of any higher purpose. Struggle for existence signifies man’s struggle for survival. But now that we have survived so many onslaughts, we have to contend with the unfolding reality of how to live? How to make our life meaningful. We have to think of beauty, decency, goodness and our commitment to the divine for promoting the welfare of the cosmic community going beyond the idea of humanism.

Post Connect 

The world that thought from the heart, and felt from the mind, the world of unified sensibility which T.S. Eliot talks of, has been buried deep in the opaque layers of history. This is the world which only thinks with its mind, which is trained in such a way that it is focused on the elevation of the self. Education now serves to sever a young man’s connection from the society around, and turn all his passions inside, so that he starts thinking nothing matters except the package and then the apex of success. This is not expected from people with a universal consciousness. Rather, it is the rotten mental stuff which will infect the whole lot. Pitiably, we have got millions of teachers now trained in this passion for self-possession, who are imparting tips to the young through videos on you tube, how to serve their self, become rich, and land astronomical packages. And, I have no hesitation in saying, cheating, double dealing, and fraud are tricks in trade, and they are not considered outlandish for this society nurtured on moral complacency. 

Decyphering Disconnect 

The societies are crying hoarse in the name of culture. But folk dresses, folk dances, and folk songs end up only to lend a spectacular splendour only. At heart, nobody looks back. Efforts at cultural revival are proving counter-productive and blowing hot and cold at the same time. Young men in colleges who love modern life, its chores and its thrills, when don traditional dresses, only present a false spectacle of love for the things gone by. Who wants to go back to times of the bullock cart age which is being idealized in our revivalists songs? It is only noise and clutter in the music albums or in social media. Nobody wants to lead a life without a mobile phone. Farmers know their youngsters don’t like to work in the fields, rather they prefer to mortgage their lands, and migrate to cities and enjoy making films on culture. A culture which they have deserted. The culture of parents, village, the water tank, animals. So, what I want stress here is: it has caused a disconnect between what we are and what we profess to be. The electronic songs won’t salvage our condition in which we do not believe. 

The same disconnect is evident in the case of religion also. Look at Youtube and the deluge of the holy hymns being played.  In spite of such an electronic spurt in religious activity, the religious content in human life is on the decline. People who are truly religious believe in a life of piety, humility, compassion, and honesty. But the men we meet who often visit shrines are just the reverse. What is the reason? Even in religious orders, we see instances of indecent behaviour. The idea of righteous living, which means ethical conduct, has disappeared from the life of these people. 

Let me revert to my statement in the beginning of this article, that our hearts are radioactive, and we connect with the divine through our breath, which is a part of the cosmic equipment. We are a part of the spectacle, and the manifestation. So long as our heart is involved in an activity, it is radiated to the cosmos, and Gods listen to our prayers. And they do respond.  But, look at what is going on now. Instead of our heart, instead of our consciousness , it is the TV which is singing religious songs, and those who sang these songs have already made a lot of money. We have lost our connect with the divine, and all our actions aimed at pleasing gods are just playing to the gallery. Contentless. That is why, all our prayers go unheeded. We play games with divine forces and disregard all our cosmic responsibilities.  And this process of disunification is going on at a faster speed. We think we have accumulated knowledge.  I think this knowledge has hastened our fall. All our actions now onwards, when we are overusing knowledge, overplaying our wisdom, we are actually overreaching ourselves. The breakup with the divine is complete and absolute. 

Cosmic Regeneration of Mankind 

Here, the role of literature gains significance. What time has not corrupted is the essential wisdom of the Vedas. The Prophets still say what they said, unaffected by the currents of time. The great poets and scholars and philosophers still stand aloft, no matter how great the storms in the oceans of time were. The wisdom of humanity still remains ingrained in our scriptures. Only the teachers can check this drift of mankind into the ocean of nothingness. It is not enough to dissect the malaise; there have been scholars who have very effectively diagnosed the social issues. In fact, time has come when the philosophers take the lead, and followed by writers, they should impact the thought processes of the upcoming generations, to weed out ambition, and criminal psychology. Scientists who are working with technology and creating new inventions like the AI need to be informed by the saner elements to stop the research which can lead to the extinction of human life. 

The message is very clear. If philosophers and scientists do not come together to halt this suicidal march, there is no hope for mankind.  That is why, I think that after the dystopian times, we need to introduce a new horizon to our life and letters. It is the new world of hope and all efforts of the writers and philosophers, and scientists and technologists should be on the cosmic regeneration of mankind. 

Dr. Jernail Singh Anand, with an opus of 200 plus books, is Laureate of the Seneca, Charter of Morava, Franz Kafka and Maxim Gorky awards, and a Permanent Senator on the International Academy of Rome.   His name adorns the Poets’ Rock in Serbia. Anand is a towering literary figure whose work embodies a rare fusion of creativity, intellect, and moral vision. He is not only one of the most influential voices in contemporary Indian poetry, but a global voice, challenging readers to confront the complexities of existence while offering hope through art and ethics.   

Poetry from students at East West Public School in Bangalore, India

Love Songs and Bloodbath

                 Std. 7 A and B

          East West Public School 

               Subramanyanagar

                  Bangalore

                      India 

            English Lab. depth. 

               Classwork activity 

                      45 mins. 

     Marathon Poetry Carpet Weaving 

“(The power of the pen vs The power of the sword) *

 The power of the sword kills the person

 It doesn’t change the world 

It leads to a valueless balance ,

Bloodshed, hatred and violence.

The sword may rule the world with fear,

The pen shows power and calls another ‘ My Dear.’

The pen shows your signature,

 The sword shows your anger 

 evilness and makes you a greedy. 

 The pen shows that you’re capable of much more,

No way less than the other.

You can erase if you make a mistake.

it’s a big success in itself.”

The sword plays a cruel game 

 it can never be successful. 

Zoya

S- word carries a ‘Special word.’ 

Sharp on edges

 it runs through

butter.

Rough as boulders

but breaks no bones.

Sweet at times laced with hemlock

Time it well by the clock.

Pen reaches the blind end with a dyslexic ‘d’

Perfect is life 

in its natural deformity. 

Black Buddha.

1. Sword wages war and another brings peace through writings.

2. There’s a line in a Kannada movie: “Give a man a gun and he’ll become a terrorist, but give him a pen and he’ll write history.”

3. A great warrior with a sword was Shivaji Maharaj, while Rabindranath Tagore wrote the Indian National Anthem with a pen, stealing our hearts.

4. Kempe Gowda won freedom with his sword on the battleground, while Rashtrakavi Kuvempu wrote the Nada Geethe, stealing every Kannadiga’s heart.

Dhruva 7A

S- word carries a ‘Special word.’ 

Sharp on edges

 it runs through

butter.

Rough as boulders

but breaks no bones.

Sweet at times laced with hemlock

Time it well by the clock.

Pen reaches the blind end with a dyslexic ‘d’

Perfect is life 

in its natural deformity. 

Black Buddha.

  Sword harm people and it can even kill  

The pen is used to change the world and even our future 

Chaitanya. C Reddy 

“Pen is with ink, sword is with blood

Pen gives us education, sword gives us bravery

Many battles have sword with blood, but pen is only with different inks

Pen is beautiful but sword is dangerous

Pen brings people together but sword eliminates people”

Prajitha 7B

S- word carries a ‘Special word.’ 

Sharp on edges

 it runs through

butter.

Rough as boulders

but breaks no bones.

Sweet at times laced with hemlock

Time it well by the clock.

Pen reaches the blind end with a dyslexic ‘d’

Perfect is life 

in its natural deformity. 

Black Buddha.

“A pen can write for a person and ‘kill’ their problems.

What can kill many people in one shot? A sword.

Kings had both- favourite swords to kill, Wise quill pens to write their will. 

A pen can bring many people together to write.

A sword is a great ‘ chopper’,

A pen makes a person a topper.”

Charan.

S- word carries a ‘Special word.’ 

Sharp on edges

 it runs through

butter.

Rough as boulders

but breaks no bones.

Sweet at times laced with hemlock

Time it well by the clock.

Pen reaches the blind end with a dyslexic ‘d’

Perfect is life 

in its natural deformity. 

Black Buddha.

A pen’s power goes beyond writing ✍️

Rana Pratap’s sword claim to fame . Guru Nanak’s words, Calms the brain. 

Pen’s subtle, sword’s the brave 

Pen’s for thinkers, sword’s the action 

Might of ideas vs. might of blade 

Dasharath.

S- word carries a ‘Special word.’ 

Sharp on edges

 it runs through

butter.

Rough as boulders

but breaks no bones.

Sweet at times laced with hemlock

Time it well by the clock.

Pen reaches the blind end with a dyslexic ‘d’

Perfect is life 

in its natural deformity. 

Black Buddha.

Pens will build society but swords destroy society The pens lead a Person’s life smartly,         

  where as swords lead the person’s life foolishly.   

 Dhanyatha

S- word carries a ‘Special word.’ 

Sharp on edges

 it runs through

butter.

Rough as boulders

but breaks no bones.

Sweet at times laced with hemlock

Time it well by the clock.

Pen reaches the blind end with a dyslexic ‘d’

Perfect is life 

in its natural deformity. 

Black Buddha.

……….

“Pen is mightier than the sword”

Pen, oh my pen, you helped me discover

Pen, oh my pen, you are so powerful

Pen, oh my pen, you’ll help me still

You’ll be alive

Pen, oh my pen, you’re helping me get a good place in society

Pen, oh my pen, the education you’re giving me is wonderful

Sword, oh my sword, you helped me in war

Sword, oh my sword, you are very scary

Sword, oh my sword, you helped me, though the war has ended

Sword, oh my sword, you helped me be a good warrior

Sword, oh my sword, the help you gave saved my life in war

……

Madan

S- word carries a ‘Special word.’ 

Sharp on edges

 it runs through

butter.

Rough as boulders

but breaks no bones.

Sweet at times laced with hemlock

Time it well by the clock.

Pen reaches the blind end with a dyslexic ‘d’

Perfect is life 

in its natural deformity. 

Black Buddha.

……

There is a saying that ‘ a pen is mightier than the sword.’

A knight comes with a sword but a writer conquers with a pen. 

One for destruction ,the other for construction.  

The sword spills blood but the pen spreads divine energy. 

DHRUTHI. 

S- word carries a ‘Special word.’ 

Sharp on edges

 it runs through

butter.

Rough as boulders

but breaks no bones.

Sweet at times laced with hemlock

Time it well by the clock.

Pen reaches the blind end with a dyslexic ‘d’

Perfect is life 

in its natural deformity. 

Black Buddha.

– A pen is not just an object; it is the object that changes our life.

– A sword is not only for killing; it showcases our skills, personality, bravery, and fearlessness.

Parikshith

S- word carries a ‘Special word.’ 

Sharp on edges

 it runs through

butter.

Rough as boulders

but breaks no bones.

Sweet at times laced with hemlock

Time it well by the clock.

Pen reaches the blind end with a dyslexic ‘d’

Perfect is life 

in its natural deformity. 

Black Buddha.

– A sword defends us in war and helps us win, but a pen fights with letters and creates a beautiful poem.

– A pen decides an author, and a sword decides a king.

– A pen attracts us to write, and a sword forces us to fight.

– A pen designs something, and a sword destroys something.

– A pen is a letter of love, and a sword is a letter of of doom.

Pratigna

…………….

S- word carries a ‘Special word.’ 

Sharp on edges

 it runs through

butter.

Rough as boulders

but breaks no bones.

Sweet at times laced with hemlock

Time it well by the clock.

Pen reaches the blind end with a dyslexic ‘d’

Perfect is life 

in its natural deformity. 

Black Buddha.

The sword v/s the pen The power of sword can kill hurt and create fear in many but a pen as the power to change the story of your imagination

Adi

S- word carries a ‘Special word.’ 

Sharp on edges

 it runs through

butter.

Rough as boulders

but breaks no bones.

Sweet at times laced with hemlock

Time it well by the clock.

Pen reaches the blind end with a dyslexic ‘d’

Perfect is life 

in its natural deformity. 

Black Buddha.

Pen can open the eyes of the world

A sword can close them forever.

A pen can open up a heart but the sword shuts it down. 

Pen can change history and the sword too can change it too. 

Sword brings sorrow pens bring joy. 

Pen can build a new future for us and the Sword builds new kingdoms. 

Krithika.  

S- word carries a ‘Special word.’ 

Sharp on edges

 it runs through

butter.

Rough as boulders

but breaks no bones.

Sweet at times laced with hemlock

Time it well by the clock.

Pen reaches the blind end with a dyslexic ‘d’

Perfect is life 

in its natural deformity. 

Black Buddha.

A pen carries ink in itself and can splash it on paper

A sword has nothing , it drinks blood and vomits. 

Vivian

S- word carries a ‘Special word.’ 

Sharp on edges

 it runs through

butter.

Rough as boulders

but breaks no bones.

Sweet at times laced with hemlock

Time it well by the clock.

Pen reaches the blind end with a dyslexic ‘d’

Perfect is life 

in its natural deformity. 

Black Buddha.

The power of pen decides our future

Swords may decide life in a wrong way. 

A pen gives life. 

A sword takes life. 

Srishkand.

S- word carries a ‘Special word.’ 

Sharp on edges

 it runs through

butter.

Rough as boulders

but breaks no bones.

Sweet at times laced with hemlock

Time it well by the clock.

Pen reaches the blind end with a dyslexic ‘d’

Perfect is life 

in its natural deformity. 

Black Buddha.

Pen can design beauty 

Sword hunts for blood. 

Surag.

S- word carries a ‘Special word.’ 

Sharp on edges

 it runs through

butter.

Rough as boulders

but breaks no bones.

Sweet at times laced with hemlock

Time it well by the clock.

Pen reaches the blind end with a dyslexic ‘d’

Perfect is life 

in its natural deformity. 

Black Buddha.

Power of pen vs Power of sword

The power of pen and the power of sword are equal but there is just one difference.It is that the sword is powerful in reality and a pen is powerful in imagination.A pen is a signal of love and sword is a signal of mayhem 

Sricharan K.Y.

S- word carries a ‘Special word.’ 

Sharp on edges

 it runs through

butter.

Rough as boulders

but breaks no bones.

Sweet at times laced with hemlock

Time it well by the clock.

Pen reaches the blind end with a dyslexic ‘d’

Perfect is life 

in its natural deformity. 

Black Buddha.

 If we give a pen to a person it is a gift but if we give a sword to a person it is a weapon.

 A sword will create pain in a person ‘s heart but a pen will create hope in a person ‘s heart.

A sword kills people but the pen writes beautiful stories of lives. A sword sends a letter of horror and sorrow but a pen writes a letters love and joy.

Hasini

S- word carries a ‘Special word.’ 

Sharp on edges

 it runs through

butter.

Rough as boulders

but breaks no bones.

Sweet at times laced with hemlock

Time it well by the clock.

Pen reaches the blind end with a dyslexic ‘d’

Perfect is life 

in its natural deformity. 

Black Buddha.

– A pen can create an author, and a sword can make a king.

– A pen is filled with ink, while a sword is stained with blood.

– A pen helps us write, but a sword helps us win battles.

– A pen writes ink on paper, and a sword spills blood on the ground.

– Pens come in different colors, but a sword’s color is just one – blood.

©️ Yashitha GR

S- word carries a ‘Special word.’ 

Sharp on edges

 it runs through

butter.

Rough as boulders

but breaks no bones.

Sweet at times laced with hemlock

Time it well by the clock.

Pen reaches the blind end with a dyslexic ‘d’

Perfect is life 

in its natural deformity. 

Black Buddha.

For project 

Youth and 

POETRY EAST WEST PUBLIC SCHOOL ACADEMIC ADVISER INT.ISA COORDINATOR 

GRACE SITHARAMAN

Essay from Brian Barbeito on his new book Of Love and Mourning

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Mini Essay on The Book of Love and Mourning (prose poems and photographs)

87 pages print 

105 pages electronic 

colour photography 

independent 

publication, (February 2026)

-Brian Barbeito

The book is out and a copy arrived. I think it’s well done in content (the writings and photos) and the physical book looks and feels nice. A large softcover work, perfect to go on coffee tables or carry around, not dissimilar to the first two collections, Still Some Crazy Summer Wind Coming Through, and When I Hear the Night. The covers and the yellow of this one are cheerful and upbeat, positive. 

Plus, it’s different, interesting, and unique. Inside and the actual book as I said. When I think of it; who needs another book that looks like all other books? There are millions that look so regular. Something different has been done! For instance, there are not nearly as many ‘prose’ poets as there are regular poets in the poetry worlds. Secondly, the poet is the photographer and it’s his work (my work), on the covers and throughout. 

Everything about it is original. 

If Tara hadn’t put this volume together, though I had written and photographed and compiled the manuscript, I don’t know if I could have. It takes patience and some technical skill and learning. Also, there is a picture of Bear and one of Paws (next to Raquel’s artwork, a painting of dogs on the wall beside Paw’s cat tree in the picture). So, Bear, nearer the start of his life, represents new beginnings, and Paws closer to the end of his life, the last chapter if one will, is seen dignified and independent and is remembered, honoured, immortalized through this photograph. Love and mourning. We love them of course when they are with us, and we mourn their loss. 

The book works on several levels. Poetry book. Photography book. Travel companion. Coffee table work. Conversation piece. Honoring the past. Acknowledging the present. And looking to the future…

-Brian Barbeito 

February 2026. 

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Essay from Suyunova Zuhra Oybekovna

The Importance of Teaching Writing Skills in English Language Learning

Abstract

Writing is one of the most important skills in English language learning because it allows learners to express ideas clearly, logically, and accurately. Writing plays a vital role in academic success and professional communication. This article explores the significance of teaching writing skills in English language classrooms, the role of writing in language development, common challenges faced by learners, effective teaching approaches, and the teacher’s role in improving students’ writing competence.

Keywords: writing skills, English language learning, academic writing, process writing, language development

Introduction

In the modern world, English has become a global language used in education, science, technology, and international communication. Among the four basic language skills—listening, speaking, reading, and writing—writing is considered one of the most complex and challenging skills to master. Writing requires learners to generate ideas, organize thoughts, use appropriate vocabulary, and apply grammatical rules accurately.

For students learning English as a foreign language, writing is essential for academic achievement. Essays, reports, exams, and research papers all require strong writing skills. Therefore, teaching writing should be given special attention in English language education.

The Role of Writing in Language Learning

Writing plays a crucial role in developing overall language proficiency. Through writing activities, learners practice grammar, sentence structure, and vocabulary in a meaningful context. Writing helps students internalize language forms and improve accuracy.

Moreover, writing enhances critical thinking skills. When learners write, they analyze information, organize ideas logically, and express opinions clearly. Writing also improves learners’ reading skills, as good writers are often careful readers. Thus, writing supports integrated language development.

Common Challenges in Learning Writing Skills

Many English language learners struggle with writing due to several factors. Limited vocabulary is one of the most common problems, making it difficult for students to express ideas effectively. Grammatical errors, poor sentence structure, and lack of coherence are also frequent challenges.

Another major difficulty is learners’ fear of making mistakes. When teachers focus too much on error correction, students may lose confidence and motivation. As a result, they may avoid writing tasks. These challenges highlight the need for supportive and effective teaching strategies.

Approaches to Teaching Writing

One of the most effective methods of teaching writing is the process-based approach. This approach views writing as a continuous process that includes planning, drafting, revising, editing, and finalizing. Students are encouraged to focus on ideas first and improve accuracy gradually.

Another useful approach is genre-based writing, which helps learners understand different types of texts such as essays, letters, reports, and narratives. Teachers provide models and guide students in analyzing structure and language features.

Collaborative writing and peer feedback are also effective techniques. They encourage interaction, improve motivation, and help learners learn from each other.

The Teacher’s Role in Developing Writing Skills

Teachers play a central role in teaching writing. They should act as facilitators, guiding students through the writing process. Providing clear instructions, sample texts, and constructive feedback is essential.

Teachers should create a positive learning environment where students feel comfortable expressing ideas. Choosing interesting topics and allowing creativity can significantly improve learners’ writing performance. Continuous practice and encouragement help students develop confidence and competence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, writing skills are an essential component of English language learning. Writing supports language development, academic success, and effective communication. Although writing is challenging, the use of appropriate teaching methods and supportive classroom practices can greatly improve learners’ writing abilities. Therefore, teaching writing should remain a key focus in English language education.

References

Harmer, J. (2004). How to Teach Writing. Longman.

Brown, H. D. (2007). Principles of Language Learning and Teaching. Pearson Education.

Hyland, K. (2003). Second Language Writing. Cambridge University Press.

Richards, J. C., & Renandya, W. A. (2002). Methodology in Language Teaching. Cambridge University Press.

Nunan, D. (1999). Second Language Teaching and Learning. Heinle & Heinle.

Suyunova Zuhra Oybekovna was born on October 25, 2006, in Toyloq district of Samarkand region. She graduated from Secondary School No. 27 in her district. Currently, she is a second-year undergraduate student at Samarkand State Institute of Foreign Languages.

From a young age, Zuhra has been highly interested in learning languages and communicating independently in them. As a result of her dedication and strong motivation, she can now speak four languages and has obtained relevant certificates.

Her articles on various topics are regularly published in mass media. Zuhra’s goal is to learn even more languages in the future, travel to foreign countries, and continue her professional activities on an international level.

Essay from Suyunova Fotima Oybekovna

Safeguarding the Planet: Environmental Protection as a Normative Obligation of Global Society

Suyunova Fotima Oybekovna

Student of Samarkand State Institute of Foreign Languages                                        

English faculty, XTA, 2407 group

Abstract: In this study, I examine environmental protection as a normative moral obligation of global society within the context of accelerating ecological degradation. Moving beyond purely economic and regulatory interpretations, I argue that environmental preservation constitutes an ethical imperative grounded in justice, intergenerational equity, and human rights. Through qualitative normative analysis and interdisciplinary reflection on environmental ethics, sustainability theory, and global governance frameworks, I demonstrate that ecological collapse represents not merely a scientific crisis but a profound moral failure. My findings suggest that safeguarding the planet must be institutionalized as a universal ethical commitment embedded within political institutions, economic systems, and social values.

Keywords: environmental ethics, sustainability, global responsibility, moral obligation, intergenerational justice, ecological crisis

1. Introduction

In the contemporary era, I observe that environmental degradation has evolved into a multidimensional crisis affecting ecological systems, economic stability, and social cohesion. Climate change intensifies extreme weather events, biodiversity loss destabilizes ecosystems, and pollution undermines public health worldwide. While environmental protection is frequently framed as a matter of policy regulation or technological innovation, I contend that such perspectives underestimate its normative dimension. In my view, the Anthropocene — an epoch characterized by significant human impact on planetary systems — compels humanity to reassess its ethical responsibilities toward nature. The unprecedented scale of human-induced environmental transformation has altered the moral landscape of global society. Because our collective actions now shape atmospheric chemistry, ocean composition, and terrestrial ecosystems, I argue that environmental protection must be regarded as a binding moral duty rather than a discretionary political agenda. This research therefore seeks to answer the following question: Why should safeguarding the planet be conceptualized as a normative obligation of global society?

2. Literature Review

In reviewing existing scholarship, I find that environmental ethics provides the foundational framework for understanding moral responsibility toward nature. Scholars such as Aldo Leopold (1949) introduced the concept of the “land ethic,” arguing that humans are members rather than masters of the ecological community. This perspective redefined moral consideration to include ecosystems and non-human life. Contemporary philosophers such as Hans Jonas (1984) further developed the idea of responsibility in the technological age, asserting that humanity’s expanded power requires an expanded ethical framework. Jonas emphasized the “principle of responsibility,” according to which technological societies must act cautiously to preserve the conditions necessary for future life. Additionally, sustainability discourse, particularly as articulated in the Brundtland Report (1987), introduced the concept of intergenerational equity, defining sustainable development as meeting present needs without compromising future generations. This framework significantly strengthened the normative dimension of environmental policy. More recent studies in climate justice literature argue that environmental degradation disproportionately affects marginalized populations and developing nations. Scholars highlight the ethical necessity of distributive justice in climate mitigation and adaptation policies. Despite extensive research on environmental governance and sustainability, I observe that many policy-oriented approaches treat environmental protection as pragmatic necessity rather than explicit moral obligation. My study seeks to contribute to the literature by synthesizing environmental ethics and global governance discourse to demonstrate that environmental protection is normatively binding.

3. Methods

In conducting this study, I adopted a qualitative normative methodology rooted in conceptual analysis and interdisciplinary integration rather than empirical experimentation. I began by systematically clarifying key concepts, including “normative obligation,” which I define as a morally binding duty derived from universalizable ethical principles, and “environmental stewardship,” understood as responsible, precautionary, and sustainable interaction with ecological systems. I then applied foundational ethical principles—harm prevention, distributive justice, intergenerational equity, and human rights-based reasoning—to contemporary environmental phenomena such as climate change, biodiversity decline, and transboundary pollution. By examining whether environmental protection satisfies established criteria for moral obligation within philosophical discourse, I constructed a comprehensive ethical argument demonstrating that ecological preservation transcends voluntary activism and enters the domain of moral necessity. This approach allowed me to integrate philosophical reasoning with socio-political analysis, thereby producing a coherent normative framework that positions environmental protection as an ethical imperative for global society.

4. Results

My analysis reveals that environmental protection fulfills multiple interrelated conditions required for classification as a normative obligation. First, the principle of harm prevention establishes a compelling moral mandate, as environmental degradation generates foreseeable and preventable suffering in the form of intensified natural disasters, displacement, food insecurity, water shortages, and public health crises. Because such harms are largely anthropogenic, failing to mitigate them constitutes ethical negligence rather than unfortunate inevitability. Second, intergenerational justice introduces a temporal dimension of responsibility, compelling present societies to consider the rights and life prospects of future generations who lack representation in current political processes yet will bear the long-term consequences of ecological mismanagement. Third, environmental degradation undermines fundamental human rights, including the rights to life, health, security, and adequate living conditions, thereby transforming ecological preservation into a matter of safeguarding human dignity. Finally, the transboundary nature of environmental systems demonstrates that ecological harm is inherently global, necessitating collective accountability among nations, institutions, corporations, and individuals. Taken together, these findings substantiate the claim that safeguarding the planet is not discretionary but normatively binding within any coherent ethical framework.

5. Discussion and Implications

Reflecting upon these findings, I maintain that the ecological crisis exposes structural deficiencies within prevailing economic and political paradigms that prioritize short-term growth and profit maximization over long-term sustainability. The normalization of environmental externalities—whereby ecological costs are displaced onto vulnerable communities or future generations—reveals a profound moral imbalance embedded within global capitalism. I argue that technological innovation and regulatory reforms, while indispensable, remain insufficient without a corresponding ethical transformation that redefines humanity’s relationship with nature. Educational systems must cultivate ecological literacy and moral awareness; international institutions must strengthen cooperative governance mechanisms; corporations must internalize environmental accountability within strategic decision-making; and individuals must adopt sustainable consumption patterns. In my view, redefining progress in terms of ecological resilience, social justice, and long-term sustainability rather than mere economic accumulation represents a necessary paradigm shift. Ultimately, environmental stewardship reflects civilizational maturity, as it demonstrates humanity’s capacity for foresight, solidarity, and ethical responsibility in the face of existential risk.

6. Conclusion

In conclusion, I assert that environmental protection constitutes a normative obligation of global society. The ecological crisis is fundamentally a moral challenge requiring ethical evolution alongside scientific and technological innovation. Through the principles of harm prevention, intergenerational justice, human rights protection, and global solidarity, I demonstrate that safeguarding the planet is an ethical necessity. The future of humanity depends not only on our technological capabilities but on our moral commitments. Recognizing environmental protection as a binding normative responsibility is essential for ensuring sustainable and equitable global survival.