Poem from Farzaneh Dorri

Older dignified looking woman with dark curly hair and a green business dress coat standing in a library with a fireplace.
Farzaneh Dorri

The Scales of Dawn

In loving memory of human rights lawyer Khosrow Alikordi

Iran breathes deep in shadowed hues,

where Injustice holds its heavy chain,

Binding spirits, dimming views,

and hope becomes a whispered pain.

But hark! A stirring, strong and clear,

a call for balance; sharp and bright,

to dry the marginalized tear,

and bring the silenced into light.

Justice angel walks on the earth as a warrior bold

with eyes that hold the sun’s own fire

a story waiting to unfold,

fueled by a deep and unquenched desire.

Her armor forged from Truth’s own gleam,

her voice; a trumpet, clear and strong,

to break the mold, to shatter dream

of ancient wrongs that linger long.

For every door held shut by fear,

for every heart that knows despair,

she brings the promise, ever near,

a breath of freedom in the air.

With steady hand, she lifts the scales

to weigh the hidden and meet the need

until the day that wrongness fails,

and Love and Equity take seed.

Middle aged man with short dark hair and a black suit coat standing in front of the scales of justice.
Khosrow Alkordi

Essay from Rashidova Shohshanam

Young Central Asian woman with reading glasses, long straight dark hair, and a black and white stripy shirt.

MODERN DEVELOPMENT PROCESSES OF THE UZBEK LANGUAGE AND ITS IMPORTANCE IN EDUCATION

Denov Institute of Entrepreneurship and.                      Pedagogica Faculty of Philology
Philology and Teaching Languages:                               Uzbek Language   1st-year student
Rashidova Shohsanam 
sohsanam719@gmail.com 

Abstract: This article discusses the modern development processes of the Uzbek language, the internal and external factors influencing its evolution, and the role of the language in the educational system. The study analyzes how the digital age affects linguistic changes, innovations in youth speech, and modern approaches applied in teaching Uzbek. The article also examines the importance of the Uzbek language in the development of society and highlights urgent issues related to its preservation and improvement.

Keywords: Uzbek language, education, language development, modern approaches, digital era, linguistic culture.

The spiritual world of a nation, its worldview, and historical memory are reflected, first of all, in its language. The Uzbek language, with its ancient history and rich lexical and grammatical system, is one of the most valuable cultural assets of our people. In today’s era of globalization and rapid technological progress, the development of language is accelerating, acquiring new forms and content.

Particularly, changes in youth communication, the influence of digital technologies, and modernization in the education system show that the Uzbek language is entering a new stage of development.
For students specializing in philology, it is essential to understand these processes thoroughly, analyze them scientifically, and convey accurate knowledge of the language to future generations. Therefore, this topic is highly relevant today.

Main Part

Modern Development Tendencies of the Uzbek Language
Throughout its history, the Uzbek language has undergone several evolutionary phases, with unique changes in each period. In the current age of globalization, the transformation of the language has become more dynamic.

Recent years show the following noticeable trends:

Expansion of the Lexicon

Technological, economic, and educational innovations are enriching the Uzbek vocabulary. Examples include digital sphere: online, mobile app, scanner, platform economics: startup, investment, competitiveness education: media literacy, interactive methods, credit-module system. These changes demonstrate the language’s adaptability to modern life.

Growth of Internet-based Vocabulary
Young people actively use social media and online terminology, leading to the widespread usage of words such as: like, trend, repost, channel, content, etc. While natural, this trend increases the need to preserve linguistic norms and cultural correctness.


Simplification in pronunciation and grammar
In spoken speech, many words are pronounced in shortened or simplified forms, for example:
“bo‘lyapti → boptimi”,“borayapsan → borvossan”.Linguists consider this part of the dynamic development of speech.

The Role of the Uzbek Language in Education

Teaching the Uzbek language goes beyond grammar; it shapes students’ thinking, communication skills, and cultural awareness. The educational process faces several important tasks:
Applying modern pedagogical technologies Today’s education effectively uses multimedia tools, electronic resources, and online platforms. These help to: increase student engagement, develop independent thinking, make learning more interesting.

Developing speech culture

Knowing the language is not enough; one must use it correctly and elegantly. Therefore, the following aspects require attention: correct pronunciation, expanding vocabulary, mastering literary norms, reducing unnecessary slang in speech.

National values and language

The Uzbek language reflects national identity, traditions, and the wisdom of ancestors. Literary works, folklore, and historical sources form an inseparable part of language education. Thus, connecting language classes with national values is essential.

New Opportunities in Teaching Uzbek in the Digital Era

Digital tools significantly increase the effectiveness of language learning. For example: audio and video materials improve pronunciation, interactive tests boost student participation,
online dictionaries enrich vocabulary, applications make lessons more engaging. For teachers, digital tools also provide advantages such as electronic lesson plans, online assessments, and multimedia-supported teaching.

Conclusion

The Uzbek language today is developing rapidly, synthesizing ancient traditions with modern innovations. While digital technologies enrich the language with new expressions and opportunities, protecting its literary norms and national essence remains a crucial task. Improving the methodology of teaching Uzbek, applying new pedagogical technologies, and cultivating students’ speech culture are among the most important objectives of modern education.
Language is the spirit of the nation. Preserving and developing it is the responsibility of each of us.

                  References
  1. Karimov N. Issues of Uzbek Language Development. Tashkent: Fan, 2020.
  2. Yuldoshev A. Introduction to Linguistics. Tashkent, 2019.
  3. Qodirova D. Methodology of Teaching the Uzbek Language. Tashkent, 2021.
  4. Mamajonov M. Digital Era and Language Culture. Samarkand, 2022.
  5. Kholmatov O. Foundations of Modern Linguistics. Tashkent, 2020.

Poetry from Juana Del Carmen Soria

Middle aged woman with short curly blonde hair and reading glasses.

Dawn breaks

A new world is emerging
where borders disappear
physical money is virtual
family love is strengthened
with videos or WhatsApp.

We must value health and education.

Let’s practice empathy and solidarity.

Let’s respect children
and the elderly, treasure troves of stories.

Let’s be alert to subliminal messages
and protect ourselves from the powerful.

A new humanity is awakening.

Let’s be young—no matter our age—
capable of taking action against injustice.

Let’s contribute the power of love
and thus build
a better world.

She was born in Río Gallegos, province of Santa Cruz, Argentina. In 2004 they settled in Villa Carlos Paz, where he currently resides. Retired teacher. ///Activities *2014/15: Coordinate The Magic of the Word. Villa Carlos Paz Municipal Cultural Hall.
2016/17: she continues to participate in the Writers’ Meeting, Book Fair, and support The Magic of the Word. /2018: Radio program “Más Allá de las Palabras” and “ Desde las Entrañas”. /Contribution to the arts and Literature. SECH (Society of Writers of Chile Recognition. Contribution to International culture. San Bernardo. Chile. /2019: Presents her book: Balances of Life, at the Buenos Aires International Fair./Universal Ambassador of Culture. Tarija. Bolivia./ Recognition and Illustrious Visitor of San Lorenzo. / 2020: Recognition of the Municipality by the Organization of the First Hispanic American Meeting of Writers and Poets. / She has participated in videos from the provinces of: Chaco and Jujuy. Culture of Villa Carlos Paz.


She has won awards and mentions for her poems within the province of Santa Cruz, Argentina and Italy./Her publications: 1997: ” Desde el Sur” Poemario /1998: “Queoquen en Moquehue” and the Buenos Aires Book Fair in the year 1998. / 2004: Tiempo de Palomas, is the result of a historical compilation of the Schools of Puerto San Julián- Santa Cruz 2011: “Con el Alma Desnuda” (Letters to the grandchildren, prose and poetry) It is her first published book in V: Carlos Paz. Presented in support of the Centennial of the Carlos N. Paz School and in Villa General Belgrano.


2014.- “Between the Waters of the Centuries” presented in various settings in Argentina. /2018.- LIFE BALANCES. Presented at the Buenos Aires Fair. Chili. Bolivia/ 2020.- “River of Silences”. / 2020: she headed the I Virtual Meeting of The Magic of the Word.

Poetry from Richard LeDue

Not Much of a Poem

Why does every poet have a poem

called “poem,” and why do empty bottles

seem more poetic than anything

I ever called a “poem”? 

Metaphorical drowning a joy

like a first drink on a Friday night,

but also the sort of death that feels as if it should rhyme.

On my best mornings, I’m a puddle

in love with its own evaporation,

while the sun writes a ‘Dear John’ letter

all over my closed eyes.

SAD

Winter nights the colour of whisky

because it’s better than darkness

telling the same story about shortening days and snow

clean as a funeral shroud.

Happiness an empty glass,

while blacked out laughter

better than another evening

remembering there’s less and less light

and how my bed is inviting like a grave.

Background Noise

Better than silence,

and even if it doesn’t know

my name and can never learn it,

it welcomes me and this poem home,

along with so many others

who believe they’re louder

than they are.  

Essay from Chöliyev Nurbek Rözimbek o‘g‘li

The Importance of Bank Loans and Investment Activities in the Development of Regional Economies

Chöliyev Nurbek Rözimbek o‘g‘li

Karshi State Technical University

1st-year student, Faculty of Economics        

Annotation: The article highlights the role of bank lending and investment activities in the development of regional economies. It analyzes the support of small and medium-sized businesses through bank loans, as well as the provision of housing and social needs for the population via mortgage and consumer loans. Furthermore, the significance of investment activities in modernizing regional infrastructure, creating new production capacities, attracting foreign investments, and generating new jobs is revealed. As practical examples, projects implemented by commercial banks of Uzbekistan, including “Mikrokreditbank,” “Agrobank,” “Ipoteka Bank,” and other financial institutions, are presented. In conclusion, findings and practical recommendations for improving credit and investment policies are provided.      

Keywords: Regional economy, commercial banks, credit policy, microcredits, mortgage, investment activity, infrastructure, small business, foreign investments, economic stability.      

Introduction       

Today, the role of the banking system is invaluable in modernizing the economy and ensuring sustainable development. In particular, bank loans provided by commercial banks and ongoing investment activities play a crucial role in the process of regional economic development. In the Republic of Uzbekistan, the comprehensive development of regions, improvement of living standards, and support for small businesses and private entrepreneurship are among the priority areas of state policy. In this context, the activities of banks, which serve as the main source of financial resources, occupy a special place.       

In regional development, bank lending serves as a key instrument for financing small and medium-sized enterprises and for expanding the agricultural, manufacturing, and service sectors. At the same time, investment activities facilitate the implementation of infrastructure projects, the creation of new production capacities, and the realization of innovative ideas.The relevance of this topic lies in the necessity of ensuring the stable functioning of the banking system in order to accelerate economic growth and reduce disparities between regions. By improving credit policy and further enhancing the investment climate, new jobs can be created in the regions, household incomes can increase, and poverty levels can be reduced.

Therefore, this article analyzes the role of bank loans and investment activities in the development of regional economies, as well as examines existing challenges and possible ways to address them.       

The Role of Bank Loans in Regional Economic Development        

Bank loans are considered one of the main financial sources in the development of regional economies. Loans provided through banks play an important role in expanding production, establishing new enterprises, modernizing existing capacities, and developing the service sector. In recent years, large-scale reforms have been implemented in the Republic of Uzbekistan to liberalize credit policy and create favorable conditions for business entities.       

In particular, in accordance with presidential decrees, the provision of preferential loans by commercial banks has been introduced, yielding significant results in supporting small businesses and entrepreneurship in the regions. According to statistical data from the Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the total volume of loans allocated to the economy by commercial banks in 2023 exceeded 480 trillion Uzbek soums, which is nearly 20 percent higher compared to the previous year. A substantial portion of these loans was directed toward financing small business entities and regional development projects.For example, loans provided by Mikrokreditbank and Agrobank for the development of agriculture and family entrepreneurship have contributed to the creation of thousands of new jobs. In addition, mortgage loans issued by Ipoteka Bank aimed at improving housing conditions have also played a significant role in raising living standards in the regions.

Taking Fergana region as an example, in 2023 commercial banks allocated loans totaling nearly 14 trillion Uzbek soums, of which 60 percent were directed to small businesses and private entrepreneurship entities. This indicator clearly demonstrates the crucial importance of bank lending in regional economic development. Thus, bank loans contribute to regional economic development by:supporting small and medium-sized enterprises;creating new jobs; increasing household incomes;strengthening the industrial potential of regions;modernizing infrastructure.

The Impact of Investment Activities on Regional Development

Another important factor in regional economic development is investment activity. Investments serve not only as a source for expanding production, but also for introducing new technologies, developing modern infrastructure, and establishing the production of competitive goods. In recent years, the investment policy of the Republic of Uzbekistan has undergone significant reforms. Favorable conditions have been created for foreign investors, free economic zones have been established, and numerous investment projects have been financed through domestic banks.

According to statistical data, the total volume of investments attracted to the economy of Uzbekistan in 2023 exceeded 350 trillion Uzbek soums, of which nearly 30 percent were financed through bank loans. In particular, Asaka Bank actively participated in financing large investment projects in the automotive, chemical, and metallurgical industries; National Bank of Uzbekistan supported projects in the energy, tourism, and infrastructure sectors; and Qishloq Qurilish Bank implemented numerous investment programs in the housing and construction sector.Significant results have also been observed at the regional level.

For example, in Fergana region, investment projects totaling more than 2 trillion Uzbek soums were financed through banks in 2023. As a result, new manufacturing enterprises were launched, and more than 7,000 new jobs were created in the region.Investment activity influences regional development in the following ways:modernizing infrastructure (roads, electricity supply, water networks);increasing industrial capacity and creating new production facilities;expanding employment opportunities and increasing household incomes;enhancing the investment attractiveness of regions and attracting new foreign investments.Thus, cooperation between investment activity and the banking system plays a decisive role in ensuring regional economic stability.

Conclusion and Recommendations

The analyses presented above demonstrate that bank lending and investment activities play a decisive role in regional economic development. Loans provided by commercial banks contribute to the growth of small businesses and private entrepreneurship, increase agricultural efficiency, improve housing provision for the population, create new production capacities, and expand the service sector.Investment activity, in turn, serves as a key factor in establishing modern infrastructure in regions, introducing advanced technologies into production, creating new jobs, and enhancing the overall economic potential of regions.

Cooperation between banks and international financial institutions strengthens the inflow of foreign investments and facilitates the integration of regions into the global economy.

Based on these findings, the following conclusions and recommendations can be proposed:

1. Diversification of bank lending is necessary. Increasing the volume of financing for various sectors, including tourism, services, and innovative projects, will enhance the effectiveness of credit policy in the regions.

2. Expansion of microfinance services is required. In particular, increasing microloans to support family entrepreneurship, women’s businesses, and youth entrepreneurship will have a positive impact on regional economic development.

3. Further improvement of the investment climate is essential. Creating favorable conditions for attracting domestic and foreign investments through banks, along with strengthening tax incentives and guarantee mechanisms, is highly advisable.

4. Strengthening the financing of regional infrastructure projects. Expanding bank lending and investment programs for transport, energy, housing, and social infrastructure development will ensure regional economic stability.

5. Acceleration of the digitalization of the banking system. Simplifying lending processes and monitoring investment projects through digital technologies will improve the efficiency of financial services in the regions.In conclusion, the importance of bank lending and investment activities in regional economic development cannot be overstated. Credit policies and investment projects implemented by banks are creating new economic opportunities in the regions, improving living standards, and contributing to the overall economic stability of the country.    

References

1. Resolution of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan. “The New Uzbekistan Development Strategy for 2022–2026.” Collection of Legislative Acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Tashkent, 2022.2. Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan. “Statistical Data on the Banking and Financial Sector of the Republic of Uzbekistan (End of 2023).” Official website: www.cbu.uz3. Karimov, A. Banking and Financial Markets. Tashkent: Economics Publishing House, 2021.4. Abdurahmonov, Q. Theory and Practice of Investments. Tashkent: Science and Technology Publishing House, 2020.5. Ministry of Economy and Finance of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Collection of Regional Development Indicators, 2023. Tashkent.6. Mikrokreditbank Official Website. “Microfinance Practices and Projects.”

www.mikrokreditbank.uz

Essay from Avazbekova Rayyonakhon

Central Asian young woman with curly dark hair and a yellow and blue top.

EFFECTIVE METHODS FOR STRENGTHENING IMMUNITY AMONG YOUTH

Annotation

This article provides a scientific analysis of the factors contributing to weakened immunity among young people and explores effective methods for strengthening the immune system. It highlights the biological functions of the immune system, the impact of a healthy lifestyle, the relationship between psychological well-being and immunity, the role of nutritional habits, and the significance of physical activity. Research results indicate that healthy nutrition, regular physical exercise, quality sleep, stress management, and avoidance of harmful habits significantly enhance immune strength.

Keywords: Immunity, youth health, healthy lifestyle, vitamins, physical activity, psychological stability.

Introduction

Youth represent the foundation of a healthy society. Their physical and mental well-being directly affects national development, social stability, and the advancement of future generations. In the context of modern globalization, increased information flow, poor nutritional habits, unhealthy lifestyle choices, and environmental challenges have negative effects on the immunity of young people. According to experts, weakened immunity leads to various infectious diseases, chronic fatigue, sleep disorders, and reduced gastrointestinal function.

Therefore, studying scientifically proven methods of strengthening immunity among youth, applying them in practice, and enhancing preventive measures remain among the most urgent tasks today.

Main Part

1. Immunity and Its Biological Importance

Immunity is the body’s ability to resist various harmful factors. It consists of innate (natural) and acquired (adaptive) immune systems. Innate immunity serves as the body’s natural defense mechanism, whereas acquired immunity forms after exposure to a disease or vaccine. During youth, the immune system actively develops; however, poor lifestyle choices and psychological stress can weaken its functioning.

2. The Impact of Nutritional Habits on Immunity

Since nearly 70% of immune functions are linked to gut activity, nutrition directly influences the state of immunity. Vitamins A, C, D, E, B-complex vitamins, as well as minerals such as iron, zinc, and selenium play a leading role in strengthening the immune system.

Widespread consumption of fast food, sugary drinks, sweets, and foods rich in preservatives among youth weakens immunity. Therefore, a healthy diet should include vegetables, fruits, buckwheat, fish, nuts, natural dairy products, and whole grains.

3. The Importance of Physical Activity and Sports

Regular physical activity improves blood circulation, activates metabolism, and strengthens the immune system. According to scientific research, at least 30 minutes of moderate daily exercise increases immune function by 25–30%. Promoting sports among young people not only encourages a healthy lifestyle but also reduces stress and improves sleep quality.

Running, swimming, cycling, yoga, and Pilates are among the most effective activities for boosting immunity.

4. Sleep Quality and Its Impact on Immunity

Sleep is the period during which the immune system restores itself. Young people who do not get sufficient sleep experience reduced lymphocyte levels, which weakens the body’s resistance to diseases.

Experts recommend 7–9 hours of quality sleep per day for youth. Excessive use of electronic devices and spending long hours online at night slow down the production of melatonin — the sleep hormone.

5. The Influence of Stress and Psychological Factors on Immunity

Young people often experience stress due to academic pressure, social media influence, interpersonal conflicts, and personal challenges. The stress hormone — cortisol — suppresses immune cell activity.

Practices such as meditation, breathing exercises, reading literature, spending time in nature, and engaging in creative activities effectively reduce stress and help strengthen immunity.

6. Consequences of Harmful Habits

Tobacco products, energy drinks, and alcohol significantly weaken the immune system. The frequent consumption of energy drinks, in particular, negatively affects cardiovascular health and increases immune dysfunction.

Promoting a healthy lifestyle among young people is crucial for preventing harmful habits.

7. The Role of Prevention and Medical Check-ups

Weakened immunity is often detected late. Therefore, young people should undergo general medical examinations at least twice a year. Vaccination, especially seasonal influenza immunization, helps support immune function and prevent infectious diseases.

Conclusion

Strengthening immunity plays a vital role in improving youth health. A strong immune system not only prevents diseases but also enhances intellectual activity, productivity, emotional stability, and social engagement. Scientific analyses show that healthy nutrition, regular physical activity, quality sleep, stress management, and avoiding harmful habits constitute the key components of strong immunity. Promoting a healthy lifestyle among young people, increasing preventive measures, and ensuring regular medical check-ups will contribute significantly to the creation of a healthy future society.

References

1. Karimova N. Youth Health and the Immune System. Tashkent, 2020.

2. Kholmatov A., Rasulov U. Foundations of Immunology. Tashkent Medical Publishing House, 2018.

3. World Health Organization (WHO). Youth Health Reports (2019–2023).

4. Ministry of Health of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Healthy Lifestyle Program. 2021.

5. Smith J., Brown L. Nutrition and Immune Function in Youth. New York: Springer, 2022.

Avazbekova Rayyonakhon was born on March 12, 2008, in Andijan city, Andijan region of the Republic of Uzbekistan, into an intellectual family. She is a first-year student of the Andijan Branch of Kokand University, Faculty of Medical Treatment, group 25-11.

Poetry from Pat Doyne

PROMISES, PROMISES, PROMISES!

A bully. Liar. Con man. Lifelong cheat.
Convicted felon. No respect for law.
Uneducated voters think he’s God—
or sent by God to fix an unfair world
where being male and white is not enough.
They call on God—the other one, on high—
to bless their hatred with prosperity.
And God—the one in D.C—answers prayers
by suing foes, unleashing private armies
on immigrants, and posting diatribes.

But now the presidential crown’s at risk.
Epstein’s ring of wealthy pedophiles
provokes the cry, “Release the Epstein files!”
He stalls, resists, twists arms— then flips. Agrees.
In videos and photos, Don and Jeff
are partying together, side by side.
So—yes, he says he’ll do the big reveal.
But will the files be whole– or missing chunks,
with names redacted, segments lost or trashed?
And Epstein’s dead. Convenient. He can’t talk.

You think we’ll finally see hard evidence
that “grab ‘em by the pussy”—basic rape,
two dozen charges, one conviction– rape
has always been a hobby? Would an isle
of teen-aged girls be catnip to this tom?
Release the Epstein files? He signed the bill.
But will we ever see them? Sure! When hell-
fire freezes solid, grocery prices fall,
and health care is available to all.
His handlers won’t finance a losing game.

Copyright 11/25 Patricia Doyne