Learning Chinese in Uzbekistan: Innovative Methodological Approaches and Their Pedagogical Effectiveness

Abstract: This study focuses on analyzing the pedagogical approaches employed in the teaching of Chinese in Uzbekistan’s education system. Based on empirical research conducted at higher education institutions in Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara, the effectiveness of various methodological strategies has been assessed. The findings reveal that a hybrid pedagogical model adapted to local contexts ensures the highest level of language acquisition.

Keywords: Chinese language, pedagogical innovation, teaching methodology, Uzbekistan, language competence

        In today’s globalized world, the demand for learning Chinese is increasing rapidly. The growing multifaceted cooperation between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the People’s Republic of China, large-scale projects under the “Belt and Road” initiative, and strengthening economic-trade relations have significantly boosted the demand for professionals proficient in Chinese.

Research in the field of teaching Chinese as a foreign language shows that instructors are seeking effective pedagogical solutions, highlighting the necessity of innovative and successful teaching models. Due to its morphological, syntactic, and phonetic differences from Uzbek, Chinese is considered a language that poses significant challenges when taught using traditional methods.

Modern Pedagogical Approaches: Contemporary research in Chinese language education emphasizes three interconnected areas: students, teachers, and the use of new technologies. These focus on learner-centered classrooms, autonomous learners, and the development of innovative teaching methods.

The cognitive-communicative approach plays a vital role in Chinese language instruction. It enhances students’ cognitive abilities while developing their skills in performing real communicative tasks. Pedagogical studies suggest that cognitive activity enables students to understand the internal structure of the language rather than merely memorize grammatical rules, thus fostering independent speech production.

Teaching Chinese involves pedagogical and psycholinguistic challenges, requiring teachers to select methodologies aligned with the unique characteristics of Mandarin. An integrative methodological approach allows the combination of various pedagogical technologies to enhance learning outcomes.

Role of Technology in Chinese Language Learning: The rapid development of digital technologies is transforming the education sector. The integration of information and communication technologies (ICT) in Chinese language instruction not only enhances teaching effectiveness but also significantly boosts student motivation.

Virtual learning environments hold particular importance in Chinese education. Through modern virtual platforms, students can engage in real-time communication with native Chinese speakers and develop practical language skills—experiences that are difficult to replicate with traditional textbooks.

Multimedia learning materials cater to the needs of learners with visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning styles. Interactive video lessons, animations, and audiovisual content simplify the teaching of complex phonetic features of Chinese, such as its tonal system.

Mobile learning technologies offer flexible learning opportunities via smartphone and tablet applications, allowing students to study anytime and anywhere. This approach is especially beneficial for adult learners and working professionals.

Digital Game-Based Learning (DGBL) is considered one of the most effective approaches in language education. Studies by Sandberg et al. (2011), Hung et al. (2014), and Yu & Tsuei (2023) confirm its effectiveness. This method leverages students’ psychological traits, such as competitiveness and intrinsic motivation, by incorporating them into the learning process through games.

Gamification and Chinese Character Acquisition: Research indicates that Chinese language learners, particularly children aged 6–12, benefit significantly from mnemonic and gamified techniques when learning Chinese characters. Games that promote visual memory and logical thinking facilitate easier and more engaging acquisition of complex characters.

According to Prensky (2007), DGBL positively affects students’ academic performance, vocabulary retention, focus, and self-confidence.

Cultural Approach and Project-Based Learning: The deep interconnection between Chinese language and culture necessitates a culture-oriented approach in instruction. As language serves as both a communication tool and a cultural carrier, familiarizing students with various aspects of Chinese culture is essential.

Ancient Chinese literature, philosophical doctrines, and traditional arts provide rich pedagogical content, helping students not only learn the language but also understand the worldview, values, and lifestyle of the Chinese people. This comprehensive approach fosters increased interest and deep motivation.

Topics related to China’s socio-economic development—such as its technological advancements and modern urban life—allow learners to study Chinese in a contemporary context.

Developing intercultural communication skills is vital, as miscommunication and cultural differences may arise during interactions. Educators must instill communicative strategies to help students navigate such challenges.

Project-Based Learning (PBL) enhances practical skills and real-life application of theoretical knowledge. Research, creative, and professional projects in Chinese culture, history, literature, business, and legal contexts deepen students’ understanding and competence.

Individualized and Adaptive Learning: Given the diversity in learners’ abilities and styles, personalized approaches are essential. Visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and reading/writing-based learners benefit from differentiated materials tailored to their preferences.

Adaptive learning technologies, powered by AI, track student progress and offer customized learning trajectories. These systems identify strengths and weaknesses, delivering individualized exercises and assessments.

Mentor-student relationships, wherein experienced teachers provide tailored guidance, play a critical role in enhancing student outcomes.

Assessment Methods: Innovative assessment practices are crucial for evaluating learning effectiveness. Traditional methods often fail to capture students’ actual language abilities.

Formative assessment enables continuous monitoring and feedback, allowing instructors to adjust teaching strategies as needed. Portfolio assessment, self-assessment, and peer assessment increase learner engagement.

Summative assessment consolidates learning outcomes and supports certification. Modern approaches include performance-based, authentic, and competency-based assessments, which reflect real-world language use.

Technology-based assessments—such as computer tests, audiovisual tools, and AI-driven speech analysis—offer reliable and objective measurement of language skills.

Teacher Training and Professional Development: Preparing qualified Chinese language teachers is essential. They must possess not only language knowledge but also pedagogical skills, cultural competence, and technological literacy.

Comprehensive teacher training should cover linguistics, pedagogical psychology, methodology, and cultural studies. ICT proficiency is also a key component.

Collaboration with China in organizing professional development programs, participation in language and culture courses, and exposure to modern teaching practices significantly improve teacher qualifications.

Continuous professional development is necessary to keep pace with changes in language, culture, educational technologies, and standards. International Experiences: Global experiences in teaching Chinese offer valuable insights for Uzbekistan.

Adapting international practices to local contexts is a strategic necessity.

European Union countries emphasize harmonized language standards and technology integration. Meanwhile, East Asian countries such as Japan, South Korea, and Singapore offer successful models in applying innovative methods.

Confucius Institutes, established worldwide by China, serve as effective platforms for language and culture education. Their practices can be adapted for use in Uzbekistan.

Future Prospects: The future of Chinese language education lies in advanced technologies—particularly AI, machine learning, and virtual/augmented reality.

AI-powered systems can personalize instruction and provide real-time feedback. Immersive VR environments enable students to explore virtual Chinese cities and interact with simulated native speakers.

Blockchain technology can secure certification and assessment systems, ensuring transparency and verifiability.

Neuro-education technologies, though still emerging, promise to enhance language acquisition by aligning instruction with cognitive functions.

Conclusion: Innovative methodological approaches and modern pedagogical technologies must be actively employed in Chinese language education in Uzbekistan. Learner-centered strategies—such as cognitive-communicative models, game-based learning, project-based instruction, personalized approaches, and cultural integration—can significantly improve motivation and outcomes.

The wide integration of ICT, particularly virtual learning platforms, multimedia, and mobile technologies, enhances teaching quality. However, technology should be seen as a means, not an end.

Teacher preparation and continuous professional development remain key to improving the overall quality of Chinese language instruction. Adopting global best practices, while tailoring them to local needs, will shape the future of Chinese language education in Uzbekistan.

References

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2. Chen, L., & Zhang, W. (2019). Digital game-based learning for Chinese character learning: A systematic review. Educational Technology Research and Development, 67(4), 901-925.

3. Hung, H. T., Yang, J. C., Hwang, G. J., Chu, H. C., & Wang, C. C. (2014). A scoping review of research on digital game-based language learning. Computers & Education, 74, 67-82.

4. Li, D., & Cutting, J. (2011). Rote learning in Chinese culture: Reflecting active Confucian-heritage pedagogy. In Cultural and Social Factors in Language Learning (pp. 165-184). Multilingual Matters.

5. Liu, M., & Evans, M. A. (2016). Investigating English language learners’ digital multimodal composing practices. Language Learning & Technology, 20(2), 50-69.

6. Prensky, M. (2007). Digital game-based learning. Paragon House.

7. Sandberg, J., Maris, M., & De Geus, K. (2011). Mobile Englis learning: An evidence-based study with fifth graders. Computers & Education, 57(1), 1334-1347.

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O‘tkirava Sevinch was born on June 15, 2004, in Ghazira neighborhood, Jomboy district, Samarkand region, Uzbekistan. She is currently a fourth-year student at Samarkand State Institute of Foreign Languages, majoring in Chinese language.

In the spring semester of the 2024–2025 academic year, she was awarded a prestigious scholarship from the Embassy of China, granting her the opportunity to study in China for one year. In May, she successfully obtained the HSK Level 4 (B2) Chinese Proficiency Certificate.

On June 1–2, 2025, she participated as a translator at the Uzbekistan–China Education Forum held in Samarkand region.

MUNAVVARA SOLAYEVA – THE OWNER OF SCIENCE AND CREATIVITY

Munavvara Solayeva is the first female PhD holder in philology from Urgench State University. The scholar was born on February 2, 1925, in the city of Khiva. In 1954, after successfully defending her PhD dissertation, she was assigned to the Khorezm State Pedagogical Institute. Munavvara Solayeva was one of the pioneers of this prestigious institution, dedicating her entire career to its development. She was among the first women to boldly travel to Moscow, where she defended her dissertation in Russian on the topic “The Lyrics of Uyg‘un”. She devoted 34 years to scientific and teaching activities at the institute where she began her career.

       In 1993, her monograph titled “Navoi and the Poets of Khorezm” was published. In recognition of her lifelong contributions, academic achievements, and ethical qualities, the university administration established a state scholarship named after Munavvara Solayeva.

      One of her exceptional qualities was her poetic talent. Over the years, her numerous scientific, journalistic articles, and poems covering relevant social and literary topics were published. These works, including poems and ghazals, have been compiled in a collection titled “A Heart in Love with Science”, prepared by poet, writer, and member of the Uzbekistan Writers’ Union, Qurbon Muhammadrizo. The book was published by Ogahiy Publishing House in 2023. The presentation of the book took place at Urgench State University named after Abu Rayhan Beruni in a highly spirited atmosphere. As a student, I also participated in the event, where we expressed admiration for Munavvara Solayeva’s courage and remarkable achievements as a woman. We aspire to become brave, active, and dedicated educators and scholars like her.

         The collection “A Heart in Love with Science” includes Munavvara Solayeva’s journalistic articles on important topics such as “What is Humanity?”, “The Literary Relations of the Two Shores”, “The Sultan of Poetry”, “The Owner of Bright Creativity”, and “The Scholar of Poetry and Art”. It also features her scientific articles such as “One Poem”, “The Pain of Poetry, the Love of Science, the Magic of Art”, “The Spirit of Navoi Protects Me…”, “May Your Flight Be High”, “The Evening Came to My Hut”, “The Tragedy of the Ghazal”, “Navoi’s Traditions in Ogahiy’s Lyrics”, “The Image of Women in “Khamsa” “, and “Navoi’s Spring Melodies”.

         By reading these works, readers gain a deep understanding of the historical period, the life, and the creative path of each literary figure discussed, along with new and comprehensive reflections on their legacies. The collection also presents her heartfelt poems such as “To My Mother”, “My Father”, “Navoi and Ogahiy”, “Fable”, “Ode to Spring”, “The Book”, “The Muse of Inspiration”, “Winter and Spring”, “Black Eyes”, as well as her ghazals with refrains “Are You My Beloved?”, “I Am Devoted”, “I Seek”, “Regret” and her muvaššah (poetic form) “The Teacher”. The poetic garden of her works stirs the hearts and touches the souls of readers, undoubtedly leaving a lasting impression on every admirer of literature.

Iroda Rakhimova Islombekovna was born on August 8, 2005, in the city of Khiva, located in the Khorezm region of Uzbekistan. She graduated from the School number 11 in Khiva with a gold medal and was admitted to Urgench State University named after Abu Rayhan Beruni on the basis of a state scholarship. Currently, she is a second-year student at the Faculty of Philology and Arts at the same university. Her poems, short stories, and articles have been published in both national and international journals. She is an active member of the “Mushoira” literary club established at the university and continues her creative work through this platform.

My Mother — The Sun of My Heart

Before I ever saw the world so wide,

You held my hand, a silent, guiding light.

At night, you shone like stars that brightly glide,

Your love — my strength, my soul’s most precious right.

You taught me patience with each passing day,

And bore life’s burdens with unshaken grace.

Within your eyes, I found my secret place —

I’ll never forget your love’s endless ray.

When the world pressed hard upon my soul,

You opened your arms, absorbing my pain.

Though you were burning, you’d never let it show —

For me, you lived, enduring in silence again.

Oh Mother, no words could ever define,

Your love — a river that knows no end.

In my life and soul, you eternally shine,

The only true light my heart can send.

Without you, what’s left in this heart of mine?

Cold nights would burn it with silent cries.

In every storm, your prayer is enough —

Your every word, a star in my skies.

The older I grew, the more I could see:

Each breath you took was a silent sacrifice.

If now I shine like a star in the sky,

Know — my light is just your love in disguise.

Life’s trials were sharp as a sword’s cruel blade,

But you walked beside me like a gentle shade.

In heavy moments, you carried hope’s flame,

Never once saying, “Poor me,” — never in shame.

Now I stand as someone my homeland needs,

Your lessons — the foundation of my soul.

Each of my triumphs, each noble deed,

Is a gift to you, who made me whole.

You are my quiet muse in every day,

The light of truth shines deep in your gaze.

Even in dreams, may you still softly pray —

With you, life blossoms in beautiful ways.

Though fate may pave my path with stone,

The strength I bear is from your heart alone.

In my soul lives a word beyond compare —

Each work I begin starts with “Mother” there.

Turayeva Sadoqat Kahramonovna was born on March 26, 2005 in Gurlan district, Khorezm region. After graduating from school No. 23 in Gurlan district, she studied at the Academic Lyceum of Urgench State University between 2021 and 2023. Currently, she is a 2nd year student at the Faculty of Philology and Arts of Urgench State University named after Abu Rayhon Beruni.

(Young Central Asian woman in a black coat with buttons on the sleeves and a white frilly blouse, seated in a cafeteria with yellow chairs).                                                 

A NEW DAY

Dewdrops dance on leaves, in gardens nestled so deep,
Softly drifting, clouds above sing lullabies in sleep.
Like the scent of a tulip, sorrow lifts from the soul,
While grandmas pray for peace and health, making the people whole.

Grass blades greet us warmly, heads risen in delight,
Listening to the cranes returning, crying through their flight.
In emerald green that charms the eyes, they reach toward the skies,
Sunlight glimmers on each bud like gold in children’s eyes.

Some have lived to see these days, and some have not, it’s true,
But spring still whispers words of joy that gently pass on through.
From parents’ heartfelt blessings bloom joy and inner grace,
And on the sky of fate we see youth’s star take its place.

With spring anew, a brand new day, forget the shadows past,
Let pure intentions simmer like sumalak in the pot at last.
Let kites that soar in skyward flight sweep grief from every heart,
And let us share the blooms of love, together, never apart.

Welcome back, O Spring, to my land! You’ve brought such dazzling cheer,
For the sixteenth time I face you, smiling with eyes so clear.
How many times we’ll meet again, I do not truly know,
But angels built a palace in my soul for you to glow.

Gulmira Ravshonbekova, daughter of Ruslonbek,was born on August 29, 2005, in Khiva city, Khorezm region.Currently, she is a second-year student at Urgench State University named after Abu Rayhan Beruni. She is a recipient of the “Ogahiy Scholarship” and the “Governor’s Scholarship”. Her first collection of poetry and prose, titled “Love for Enchanting Words”, has been published.She is a winner of several international, national, and regional Olympiads and competitions. Gulmira is also a member and certificate holder of the “Kyrgyz Poets and Writers Fund” of the Kyrgyz Republic. Additionally, she represents Uzbekistan in the international organization “National Human Rights and Humanitary Federation”.Her academic and literary works have been published in journals and anthologies in countries such as Germany, the USA, Turkey, Canada, India, Poland, and others.                                                                                             

First of all, we’re sharing the new project of young leader Muslima Olimova. The online platform Muslima Academy is a secular youth-led educational initiative empowering students with digital skills, international opportunities, and career readiness. More information here.

Also contributor Christopher Bernard has work included in the new summer issue of literary magazine Caveat Lector. Secondly, contributor Timothee Bordenave will have his painting Carte a Jouer auctioned off at L’Olympia.

Disabled contributor, lyric essayist, and ALS activist Katrina Byrd suffered hurricane damage to her home and seeks support to rebuild and make ends meet while she’s getting ready to move. Whatever folks can contribute will make a real difference.

South African poet and essayist Abigail George, whom we’ve published many times, shares the fundraiser her book’s press has created for her. She’s seeking contributions for office supplies and resources to be able to serve as a speaker and advocate for others who have experienced trauma or deal with mental health issues.

Also, the Educational Bookshop in Jerusalem, a store that has the mission of peaceful dialogue and education, invites readers to donate new or gently used books (all genres) that have been meaningful to them, with a note enclosed for future readers about why the books were meaningful. (The books don’t have to be about peace or social justice or the Mideast, although they can be). Please send books here. US-based Interlink Publishing has also started a GoFundMe for the store.

Writer and playwright Gina De Vries has been awarded a fellowship to receive professional coaching from the Lambda Literary Foundation for her drama exploring and challenging the “Doom Loop” narrative about American cities. She’s raising a small amount of cash to cover the portion of the cost that she’s expected to cover.

Next, we have a group of young early-career UC Davis academics who hope to attend an important conference in the field of climate science, but need to privately raise cash to replace grant funds that were removed due to changing conditions in the U.S. They’ve been hosting bake sales to make up the difference.

We’re spreading the word about Claire Jones and Amaranthia Sepia and their work through Sista Creatives Rising, creating accessible virtual shows, spotlighting and giving small grants to women of color to pursue their creative dreams. They’ll host a new show this fall, tickets will be available soon, and are inviting people to donate to celebrate Juneteenth! Any donations we receive will help us support our team, speakers and tech needs such as Adobe, Xfinity Emergency Storm Wi-Fi, editing & captioning apps, accessibility support, and more!

Also, we encourage people to consider supporting the Sun Gallery, which is one of the venues hosting the Hayward (California) Lit Hop festival, co-sponsored each year by Synchronized Chaos Magazine. They’re struggling due to the loss of some important grants and facing possible closure, and we would like to give back to the places that have supported us.

Finally, we’re helping out one of the founders of the Secret Spot, a grassroots performance and visual arts collective launched by low-income artists early in their careers. The Secret Spot is temporarily taking a break while she recovers from injuries sustained in a car accident.

Now, for July’s first issue: Hold This World Loosely. These words of St. Paul from two millennia ago remind us that while there is much to embrace in the world, all is impermanent and we can only protect ourselves from suffering by holding on with a loose grasp. However, this flexibility also frees us to appreciate and create positive change.

Eva Petropoulou Lianou describes the freedom found in holding onto life with a loose hand. Yucheng Tao crafts poetry of fleeting moments, consciousness, grief, and beauty. Dustin Pickering expresses his desire to float away with his love, even down to shadows and the abyss. Jason Ryberg’s poetry evokes dreams, memory, and timelessness. Lilian Dipasupil Kunimasa writes of gales of wind and emotion and the cultural wisdom embedded in a Native American dream catcher. Graciela Noemi Villaverde writes elegantly of a summer train adventure and the need to let go of some of the past to embrace the future.

Welcoming personal and societal change and growth can be a positive thing. Qobulova Gulzoda honors the forward-thinking Jadid leaders in Uzbekistan’s heritage who promoted education, science, and literacy. Gulshoda Jorabekovna Baxtiyorova offers up patriotic praise for Uzbekistan’s current presidential administration and its efforts to promote education, science, women’s rights, and athletics. Xoliqulova Husniabonu reflects on the bravery and dedication of her nation’s historical heroes. Priyanka Neogi urges people to achieve personal greatness by working hard to develop their talents and growing in their character and respect for others.

As an example of scientific research, Davlatyorova Iqbol outlines the medical causes of and treatments for hyperglycemia. Anorov Sirojiddin outlines approaches to treating urological diseases. Turning to the arts, Federico Wardal points out two films, flautist Andrea Ceccomori’s “Anita” and Joe Mantegna’s “Kamilah the Miracle Filly,” which have crossed national borders to be featured in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Italy.

Oyatillo Jabboraliev highlights the value of student exchange programs for helping young people learn life skills as well as cultural literacy. Mamatova Diyora explores ways to help students stay motivated to learn foreign languages they don’t frequently hear. Munisa Asimova reflects on the work of a caring teacher who helped her achieve her writing dreams, and Sobirjonova Rayhona also offers up a poetic tribute to a dedicated teacher. Rakhmonova Diyorakhon discusses the importance of experiential and participatory education for young people. Muslima Olimova announces the launch of her online startup which aims to help young people around the world learn the skills that will prepare them for work and also outlines the advantages of different backend programming languages.

Ibodullayeva Dilnura analyzes the effects of combining online and in-person education. Surayo Nosirova relates her experience with an environmental education project involving young people in solving today’s challenges. Odina Bahodirova highlights the role of environmental education in promoting future sustainability.

Rushana Raupova celebrates the wonder and joy children can bring to the world and her dedication to benefiting them with her life. Aytuvova Khurshida outlines the importance of integrating the latest psychology findings into children’s education.

Mario Loprete renders urban style into the gallery with concrete tributes to rap and culture. Sabina G’iyosiddinova builds upon and expands traditional Uzbek art styles in her abstract work.

Dr. Jernail S. Anand suggests a positive role for artificial intelligence in enhancing human life and promoting pro-social behavior. Tursunova Ismigul suggests strategies, including technology-based platforms, to improve access to healthcare in rural communities.

Speaking of traditional rural villages, Manik Chakraborty revels in gentle, sunny village life. Holding onto the world with a light touch does not mean giving up one’s love for one’s world, heritage or past. Maftuna Rustamova honors the creative legacy of Uzbek poet Zulfiya Khanim. Dilnura Khahhorova affirms the importance of celebrating the traditional culture of Uzbekistan while Bektosh Kenjayev honors the self-sacrificing military heroism of historical tribal leader Shiroq. Iskandarova Dilnoza affirms her Uzbek history and culture in poetry. Mickey Corrigan reflects on the complex and intriguing life of James Bond actor Ian Fleming. John Dorsey speaks in his poetry to American culture, memory, and reflection.

David Sapp expresses thoughtful wonderment and fascination for art and the natural world. Irma Kurti speaks to excitement, love, grief, the sky’s various moods, and summer breezes. John Thomas Allen offers a mystical ode to the esoteric arts. Alan Catlin probes the uncanny side of nature in his surreal poems. Joseph Ogbonna describes a road trip where tension among fellow travelers arose, then dissipated as everyone explored the calm and quiet Nigerian countryside. Saiprakash Kuntamukkala listens to an elegant rainfall. Mahbub Alam reflects on patience and how nature blooms on its own timescale. Christina Chin and Jerome Berglund exchange tan-renga lines about mowing the lawn, ants crawling, film noir, and many other topics.

Mary Bone remembers outdoor winter celebrations with friends and family. Brian Barbeito reflects on escaping a garish urban landscape by taking refuge by the sea. Don Bormon speaks to the vast natural renewal each year after the monsoon rains.

Chimezie Ihekuna praises the power of love and expresses a child’s tender love for their father. Elbekova Shohsanam thanks her parents for their constant and sacrificial love. Mashxura Fazliddinova Nuriddinovna offers up a tribute to both her parents. Wansoo Kim speaks to centering oneself and listening to the voices of faith and conscience rather than other less meaningful distractions. Turkia Loucif celebrates family, love, nature and creativity. Rhian Elizabeth’s maybe i’ll call gillian anderson, reviewed by Cristina Deptula, speaks to family and romantic relationships and makes space for love, grief, and change.

Sometimes remembrance is tinged with sorrow. Poet Hassane Ajbouh carries forth an ecstatic spiritual love through writing of his departed beloved. Mesfakus Salahin’s poetry evokes the pain of separation from a loved one amid the hot monsoon rains. Duane Vorhees writes figuratively, yet sensually, of romantic pairings of opposites and of people left longing or bereft after someone leaves. Greg Hill sends up images of fall, loss, and departure, contrasted with a lively preteen sleepover.

Paul Murgatroyd evokes death, decay, and the persistent memory of youth. J.J. Campbell speaks to aging, disillusionment, loneliness, frustration, and despair. Taylor Dibbert’s narrator reflects on the long shadow of his beloved dog’s memory. Leslie Lisbona mourns a friendship of many years that went awry after her friend’s move and some off-base comments. Mirta Liliana Ramirez remembers a person she lost by the sea they both loved. Stephanie Elendu’s short story presents three different characters grieving the deaths of school children in a Nigerian truck accident from three different perspectives.

Mykyta Ryzhykh speaks to love, physical passion, death, the extreme trauma of wartime, and the psychological violence of having to hide a big part of himself. Palestinian poet Ahmed Miqdad looks to death as a release from the extreme suffering he sees in Gaza and Eva Petropoulou Lianou interviews him about his writing and his hopes for peace and human rights in the region. Abdulrasheed Yakubu Ladan also speaks to the human suffering in Gaza and the people’s determination to survive. Patricia Doyne lampoons Donald Trump and the state of American politics and the possibility of war. Noah Berlatsky grieves the loss of a loved one to social violence at the hands of laws and lawmakers who said they didn’t belong, reminding us of the human cost of policies.

Yuldasheva Oyshakhon reminds us to cherish our parents while we have them. Bill Tope remembers the unspoken rejection he felt after losing his father. Maja Milojkovic recollects the ways her deceased father made an impact on her life. Dan Flore writes of the lingering effects of divorce on now-adult children. Abigail George reflects on her loneliness and depression when her own mother forgot her birthday, and how she found comfort from looking to writers and the human experience.

Sayani Mukherjee speaks to feeling part of nature’s family, one of the plethora of creatures in a continually changing universe. Mohidil Sultanova evokes the joy, wonder, and community of a vibrant Uzbek street market, where she can feel the pulse of humanity interacting. Mahmudova Sevara uses cuisine as a lens to explore points of intersection between Uzbek and Korean culture. Bazarbaeva Inabat analyzes business connections between Thailand’s media and tourism industries.

Several students cover themes of cultural exchange within the field of linguistics. Hafizullayeva Kamolaxon outlines the influence of Turkish on the Uzbek language. Nigora Abdurazzakova explores cognitive development in children bilingual in Russian and Uzbek. Tojimurodova Latofat discusses ways to help speakers of Russian, Uzbek, and English remember words. Aliasqarova Muslima discusses attitudes towards regional and country dialects in the Uzbek language. Baxtiyorova Feruza’s essay deals with the role of common nouns and verbs in Uzbek and English speech. Berdiyorova Nargiza compares idiomatic expressions in English and Uzbek. Jo’rayeva Aziza explores multimodal teaching methodologies for Uzbek as a foreign language. Odilova Diyora looks into how translation strategies impact the interpretation of culturally specific terms in Uzbek. Sa’dullayeva Dilshoda highlights the role of language preservation in claiming and reclaiming culture and identity. Nasirova Xurshedabonu looks into ways to help students gain confidence in speaking foreign languages.

Sometimes we experience life as if it’s been mistranslated, as if we aren’t sure exactly what’s happening and what to make of our circumstances and senses. Mark Young writes of off-kilter scenes from daily life, observed from a distance. Iduoze Abdulhafiz escorts us through a holographic world of surreal prose. Yongbo Ma recollects a hazy dream about attempting to repair a muddy road, then adding to the confusion.

Christopher Bernard reflects on what it means to age when one never quite fit with one’s own generation.

Ben Nardolilli explores possibility and reality, human minds and our role in the universe, and suggests that we belong here. Wansoo Kim urges us to pull out of selfishness and despair and follow our consciences as guides. Nasir Aijaz perseveres in his life despite society’s many ills. Jasmina Ergasheva expresses resilience and hope for her future. Murodillayeva Mohinur reflects on her determination to rise towards her dreams even amidst obstacles.

Michael Robinson speaks to the new life and healing he has found in Jesus Christ. Eva Petropoulou Lianou expresses a wish for people to choose humanity over greed, and in another piece translated by Sumaya Al-Essmael, urges peace on earth for everyone’s best interest. Azamova Feruza highlights the importance of peace and stability for developing, or all, nations.

Vo Thi Nhu Mai contributes a gentle, tender love story where a young man finally gets up the courage to embrace his first beloved. Isaac Aju crafts a hopeful, second-chance romance. Sushant Thapa’s piece celebrates friendship and art’s power to encourage the soul.

Peter Cherches contributes a humorous poem making a bold claim to its own existence. Svetlana Rostova highlights the power of words and ventures to rewrite her own story. We hope that this issue inspires and frees you to do the same in your own words and media.

A WONDERFUL LIFE

Kathy, lovely Kathy,

you’re just seventeen,

a sixth former with slip-on self-assurance,

doing an additional A-level

(in Sophistication),

talking Blake and Camus over coffee,

inhaling Coltrane and Beethoven’s late quartets,

Kathy with the liquefying lips and willing breasts

and spring in your smile.

You’re free from

the quagmire of kids

(nappies, potties, snot, spots);

games of happy families with cardsharper in-laws

and the Oedipean, Oresteian tragedy

of turning thirty;

after that the long death-march across mindless plains,

mediocre amid mediocrities,

just another Cycladic head;

days, weeks, months, years, decades of sameness –

dull, dull, dull, dull, dull,

only enlivened by prostate trouble and piles;

finally a joyless retirement from a meaningless job;

then afternoons of staring at dust-motes in wintry sunbeams;

unliving your life by forgetting bits of it;

waiterly disdain and the furious indifference of shop assistants;

insidious dilapidation – wonky eyes and ears, squiggly fingers,

insubordinate bowels

and the ultimate betrayal, by the bastard liver –

falling asleep after four drinks.

Kathy, lovely Kathy,

you’re free from all that

and still seventeen

over sixty years later.

You’ll always be seventeen

until I die

and with me my memories

of my first girlfriend

before the move for dad’s new job

made me lose touch with you.

Actually

she’s almost certainly snuffed it by now,

or is slowly zimmering off into the sunset,

like me,

fallen among husks

that are drooling in the death row of armchairs

in front of the shouty TV,

confounded by Coronation Street,

here in our frigging home from home –

the Enchanted Elders Serenity Centre.

SYNECDOCHE

Two trees

grey gaunt

no leaves no buds no nests

branches and twigs clenched in agony,

a madman’s scribble on the sky

motionless writhing

speechless screaming

two contorted torture victims;

refugees from lands of famine and flood

reaching out Belsen-thin fingers and arms;

when the wind blows,

skeletons jerking in a dance of death

a prodigy beside a portent.

The man had been pissed off because these two trees at the bottom of his

neighbour’s garden blocked the sunlight for his boozy barbecues, so one

night he leaned over the fence and poured diesel oil on their roots,

murdering nature.