Poetry from Dr. Jernail S. Anand

Older South Asian man in a pink turban and coat and tie standing and reading from a large open book.

THE CHARITABLE HAND 

Life is like a festival of ‘basant’

At which,

Young kids fly kites

And don’t mind using the china twine

Which has a high killer potential.

Govt announcements apart,

Who bothers about life,

That too of others,

When their own joy 

Is at stake? 

While having a post-dinner stroll

We came across a pigeon

Trying hard to fly

But caught in a twine

Which did not oblige. 

We caught the pigeon

And to our horror,

The twine had got round

And round and round

Its body, and clipped its wings.

The pigeon now was scared

The poor thing didn’t know for what

He had been trapped.

Would this hand wrench its neck

And boil it the next moment.

Ohh! The poor thing was 

In the hands of mercy.

We brought a pair of scissors

And started cutting the twine

It was badly wrapped around its wings.

At last the twine was cut,

But it had impaired his wings,

And when we left it free,

It could only move,

And failed to fly. 

We brought it home,

And offered it all it liked to eat.

It is still in our balcony,

But still not able to fly

But it knows what is care and safety.

The story held a lesson for me.

The twine represents the little misses

That we make, 

Which then wrap around our neck

And our wings, and halt our flight.

Rather, they cut our wings sometimes

And we are made vulnerable 

To the vultures,

A moment with a cat 

Was enough to do it in.

Desires, passions, unfilled dreams

Keep us trapped like this twine

And impair our freedom,

Rather put our very life in danger.

Christ is not born in every manger.

Poetry from Mark Young

Atmospherics

Then the lights came on; &,

in the glare, a handful of 

singers squabbling over

who was the first to use

those lyrics in a song.

For Varg Veum

Almost as if there was a

paragraph, or a page, or

a chapter in the book in

which the identity of the

perpetrator was heavily

hinted at, but that partic-

ular part seems to have

been omitted, & you are

left puzzled by the ease

with which the detective 

identified the culprit with 

no obvious facts at hand.  

The Spice Girls Regroup

law infractions that occurred early on Tuesday morning, under a plan which will see settlement temporary neighborhood prepared a 10-year-old Palestinian boy inside a base. Police for “most racist state” in the developed world said ultra-Orthodox Russian President Vladimir Putin praised his Palestinian counterpart Tuesday no problem recognizing a bullet-proof vehicle. Palestinian state twelve Israel Defense soldiers and what he said was the Judea and Samaria District a “responsible” position negotiations with Israel, frozen for nearly Saturday’s social protest that the violence families evacuated to the West Bank four years ago. Israel began evicting the of the Prominent Israeli author Sami Michael said the country’s discriminatory attitude for trafficking in drugs worth some NIS 800,000, according a report released on The which approach its border as a threat and a military target, Prime Minister Tayyip neighborhood in the Beit Commissioner Yohanan claims that although he was in a he men said on Tuesday. A Border Police officer charged with causing the death of visiting Danino on Tuesday accused activists that participated in premeditated. The Police three overnight Monday on suspicion of desecrating the Yad Vashem Holocaust with had to respond after stones were thrown at the car. anti-Zionist slogans two weeks Mizrahi Jews and Arabs qualifies it for the title of junior career officers have been arrest sweep is one of the largest ever in the IDF. Türkiye will treat any Syrian units.

The fence around the moon

Is sometimes hard to see, but a

wooden post & rail fence runs

rings around the moon. There’s

a minimal gap between the fence 

& the lunar surface that deters 

goats or other space inhabitants 

from pushing beneath it. A var-

iety of media — plasma bursts,

lithium batteries, ouija boards, 

Barbra Streisand recordings — 

were tried, but none proved as 

efficacious as wood in keeping 

polka dots out of its displays.

Noted in passing

Rain for several days;

& in the water lying

across the driveway

the reflection of an 

ibis flying by.

Essay from O‘rinova Diyora

CAUSES OF STYLISTIC ERRORS IN STUDENTS’ SPEECH AND WAYS TO ELIMINATE THEM

O‘rinova Diyora

Master’s student, Namangan State Pedagogical Institute

Abstract

This article examines stylistic errors found in students’ oral and written speech, their underlying causes, and effective methods for eliminating them. The study employed content analysis, surveys, observation, experimental methods, focus group discussions, computational linguistic analysis, and psycholinguistic testing. The findings reveal that students frequently struggle with selecting appropriate speech styles according to text types. Based on the results, practical recommendations are proposed to improve students’ speech culture and stylistic competence.

Keywords: speech culture, stylistic errors, communication, language norms, educational process, statistical analysis, content analysis

INTRODUCTION

In modern education, developing students’ communication culture and ensuring stylistic accuracy in their speech has become one of the most pressing issues. In linguistics, stylistic errors are defined as the use of language units that are inappropriate for a given context or inconsistent with a particular speech style. Such errors negatively affect students’ speech culture, weakening their ability to express ideas clearly, engage in communication, and adhere to literary language norms.

Speech culture plays a crucial role not only in education but also in an individual’s social success. In the digital era, the rapid development of technology has introduced new tendencies in students’ speech. For example, abbreviations, emojis, and informal expressions commonly used in social media are increasingly transferred into formal written language, leading to stylistic distortions. This phenomenon can influence not only students’ academic writing but also their future professional communication.

Therefore, eliminating stylistic errors requires a comprehensive approach that considers not only grammatical but also pragmatic and discourse-related aspects. This article analyzes the main causes of stylistic errors in students’ speech and explores effective ways to address them.

LITERATURE REVIEW AND METHODOLOGY

Numerous scholars have conducted research in the field of speech culture. For instance, G‘afurov analyzed the theoretical aspects of speech culture, while Karimov systematized literary language styles. Qodirova provided practical examples of stylistic usage, and Xudoyberganova examined linguistic features from a psycholinguistic perspective. International researchers such as Smith, Ivanova, and Brown explored comparative, cognitive, and educational aspects of language norms. Recent studies by Yusupova, Petrov, Nurmatov, and Wilson highlight modern teaching methods and the impact of digital communication on speech.

The study was conducted among 100 students from grades 8–9 in Tashkent city and region. Their written works (essays, summaries) and oral responses were analyzed.

The following methods were used:

Content analysis: identifying and classifying stylistic errors

Survey: assessing students’ knowledge of speech styles

Observation: analyzing teaching approaches and classroom speech

Additional methods included:

1. Experimental Method

Two groups (control and experimental) were selected. A “Teaching Speech Styles” program was implemented in the experimental group for three months. As a result, students’ ability to choose appropriate styles improved by 35%.

2. Focus Group Discussions

Five groups (8 students each) discussed the influence of social media language. About 70% of participants preferred writing “as they do on Telegram.”

3. Computational Linguistics

Using the AntConc program, 100 essays were analyzed. Words such as “very” (143 times) and “amazing” (78 times) were overused, indicating excessive use of expressive vocabulary.

4. Psycholinguistic Testing

Only 31% of students correctly identified appropriate stylistic choices in academic contexts.

Additional statistical findings showed that errors in formal letters were distributed as follows:

Introduction – 23%

Main body – 41%

Conclusion – 36%

RESULTS

The analysis revealed the following common stylistic errors in students’ speech:

Mixing formal and informal styles – 43%

Using artistic expressions in scientific texts (and vice versa) – 29%

Pronunciation and stress-related stylistic distortions – 15%

Transfer of internet and colloquial language into writing – 13%

Although 67% of students demonstrated general knowledge of speech styles, only 21% understood the importance of selecting an appropriate style according to the text type.

DISCUSSION

The findings indicate that the main causes of stylistic errors include:

Insufficient theoretical knowledge of language styles

Transfer of informal speech into written language

Inability to distinguish between text types

Strong influence of internet and social media language

To address these issues, the following strategies are recommended:

Teaching speech styles through comparative practical exercises

Conducting text-based analysis and discussions

Developing exercises for appropriate stylistic selection

Ensuring teachers model correct speech usage

Limiting the use of informal internet language in academic contexts

One of the key reasons for stylistic errors is the lack of emphasis on stylistic aspects in textbooks and classroom instruction. Additionally, students’ exposure to informal digital communication significantly shapes their language habits. Therefore, teachers should dedicate more time to text analysis and encourage students to practice writing in various genres such as academic articles, formal letters, and essays.

CONCLUSION

Reducing stylistic errors and improving students’ speech culture requires systematic teaching of language styles in both theoretical and practical ways. This not only promotes adherence to literary language norms but also enhances students’ ability to communicate clearly, accurately, and effectively in social and professional contexts.

The following measures are recommended:

For teachers: organize seminars and training sessions on stylistics; expand textbook content

For students: engage in text analysis, speech exercises, and projects (e.g., “Correct Speech” clubs)

For parents: encourage reading and monitor children’s speech habits

For educational policy: develop national programs aimed at improving speech culture

O‘rinova Diyora Kamoliddin qizi was born on November 6, 1997, in Uchqo‘rg‘on district of Namangan region. She graduated from Secondary School No. 25 in her district and continued her studies at an academic lyceum. She obtained her higher education in the field of Uzbek Language at Namangan State University.

Currently, she is a second year master’s student at Namangan State Pedagogical Institute. She holds certificates in both native language and English and is recognized as a highly qualified teacher within her field. She is also the regional stage winner of the “Book-Loving Teacher” competition.

Her main goal is to share her knowledge with young learners and contribute to the development of future specialists through education and scientific activity.

Essay from Yunusova Robiyakhon Khayotbek qizi

Yunusova Robiyakhon Khayotbek qizi

Andijan State Technical Institute

1st-year student of Economics

E-mail: yunusovarobiya90@gmail.com

Development of Financial Technologies in the Context of the Digital Economy

Abstract: This article analyzes the development processes of financial technologies (FinTech) in the context of the digital economy, their impact on the financial system, and their importance in the economy. It also examines the development trends of digital payment systems, mobile banking services, blockchain technologies, and financial services based on artificial intelligence. The study highlights the role of financial technologies in increasing the efficiency of the banking system, improving service quality, and expanding financial inclusion. At the same time, the problems and prospects of FinTech development are also analyzed.

Keywords: Digital economy, financial technologies (FinTech), digital payment systems, blockchain technology, artificial intelligence, digital transformation.

Introduction

In today’s rapidly developing digital technologies, the global financial sector is undergoing unprecedented changes. Innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and big data analytics are transforming traditional models of finance and banking into faster, more transparent, and more efficient systems. In particular, the widespread application of artificial intelligence algorithms in credit scoring, risk prediction, fraud prevention, investment analysis, and personalized customer services is enabling a fundamental transformation of the financial ecosystem [1].The digital financial ecosystem is undergoing major changes, mainly through the integration of machine learning technologies. Machine learning, with its ability to identify complex patterns from large datasets, has become a key factor in improving the efficiency and accuracy of financial services [2].

Main Part

With the development of digital technologies, banking and financial systems are experiencing significant transformations. Advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and big data analytics are expanding opportunities for automating financial operations, enhancing security, and providing personalized services to customers. The application of AI technologies in the global financial market is generating new innovations [1].

In recent years, the expansion of digital financial services (DFS) has not only increased financial accessibility but also created new opportunities from a taxation perspective. For example, according to an OECD report, more than 70% of tax authorities are working to increase tax revenues and reduce tax evasion through the use of artificial intelligence and analytical methods. Research conducted in Africa has also shown that DFS is a strong factor in expanding the tax base (for example, mobile money accounts are currently providing financial services to a large portion of the population). This situation is also important for Uzbekistan: through digital payments, e-commerce, and the introduction of fiscal systems, the economic activity of taxpayers and the tax base can become more transparent [3].

Like many developed countries, our country has chosen the path of developing the digital economy, which opens new directions in the field of information technologies and electronic document circulation. The shift of society towards digital technologies has been driven by improvements in the global internet network and the development of communication systems. As a result, opportunities have emerged for exchanging and collecting large volumes of data, which in turn enables data processing, forecasting, decision-making, and generating benefits in various ways.

For all this, it is necessary to create appropriate infrastructure, in other words, an ecosystem of global information platforms. However, this also creates risks such as data loss, business loss, job reduction, security threats, and the need for modernization. These issues must be addressed quickly, as delays may lead to serious risks [4].

The development of financial technologies plays an important role in global economic and social changes, as they provide more convenient and cost-effective solutions to meet the financial needs of society. Currently, financial technologies are the fastest-growing segment of the financial services market.

A number of studies have been conducted on the development of financial technologies. For example, Professor Patrick Schueffel of the Fribourg School of Management reviewed more than 200 scientific articles published over the past forty years and defined FinTech as “an emerging financial industry that uses technology to improve financial performance.”Professor Douglas W. Arner, one of the founders of the Hong Kong University Financial Law Center, and his colleagues define FinTech as “the improvement and development of financial services based on technological innovations.” Strategic management expert Hermann Simon defines financial technologies as “the process of adapting the traditional financial system to new, efficient, and secure forms of service through digital innovations.”

These definitions show that approaches to financial technologies are based on service convenience, innovation, and the value added by technology to the financial system [5].Financial technologies are important for technological development and economic stability and are one of the main driving forces of the digital revolution in the global economy. The main factors behind the emergence and rapid spread of FinTech include:growth in the quality and quantity of information technologies, the need for financial and non-financial companies to improve their activities, and changes in consumer behavior [5]

Conclusion

The rapid development of digital technologies is fundamentally transforming banking and financial systems, enabling the creation of automated, fast, and efficient services based on artificial intelligence. The study analyzed the implementation of AI technologies in Uzbekistan’s banking sector, their advantages, and existing challenges. The results show that the widespread adoption of AI technologies improves customer service quality, helps identify credit risks, prevents fraud, and increases operational efficiency.

At the same time, AI integration also creates challenges related to legal regulation, cybersecurity, and the development of technological infrastructure. There are prospects for the use of blockchain, generative AI, quantum computing, and embedded finance technologies in Uzbekistan’s banking system, and their effective implementation will contribute to increasing financial stability and competitiveness [1].

In conclusion, online lending platforms are becoming one of the key drivers of innovative and rapid digital transformation in Uzbekistan’s banking system. The systematic development of this process creates new opportunities for banks, increases convenience for customers, and contributes to the formation of a stable, modern, and competitive financial ecosystem

[6].References

Shakhzod G‘aniyev — Prospects of banking and financial systems in the digital economyLink: https://yashil-iqtisodiyot-taraqqiyot.uz/journal/index.php/GED/article/view/6580Fintech and MSEs Innovation: an Empirical AnalysisLink: https://arxiv.org/abs/2407.17293Umurzoq Radjabov — Prospects for improving tax administration efficiency in the transformation of digital financial servicesLink: https://muhandislik-iqtisodiyot.uz/index.php/journal/article/view/1300R.H. Ayupov, G.R. Boltaboeva — Fundamentals of the digital economy, Tashkent-2020Yakubova Sh.Sh., Po‘latova M.Sh. Development of financial technology market infrastructure // Spanish Journal of Innovation and Integrity – 2024Temurbek Normo‘minov — Cooperation between fintech startups and commercial banksLink: https://yashil-iqtisodiyot-taraqqiyot.uz/journal/index.php/GED/article/view/7945

Poetry from Ananya Guha

March winds have abated

The power, the delirium

The hastiness all gone

But will it come back 

In childhood fury

To measure time by the

Indefinite hour glass?

Once more I step  on these

Hills, light footed, light winged

To answer the rains which 

Come catapulting into night skies

And walk the ways of a thousand

Roads.

Ananya S Guha

Shillong

INDIA

Ananya S Guha lives in Shillong in North East India. He has been writing and publishing his poetry for the last forty years, and has ten collections of poetry to his credit.

Short story from Doug Hawley and Bill Tope

Originally published in the Gorko Gazette.

Le Penseur

Stan sat before the old television set, unmoving. He was just dimly aware that his torso and limbs were arranged in the same posture as Rodin’s “The Thinker,” only in flesh tones instead of the bronze of the sculpture. While Le Penseur had for more than a century captivated observers with its monumental reflection of profound introspection, Stan knew only that he was stoned on peach-flavored vodka and ersatz Nyquil. Like the statue, Stan was totally nude.

It had been a long night. Leaving his sleeping wife alone in the middle of the night to grab a beer and catch some professional wrestling on the tube, he had gotten wildly drunk and stayed that way into the morning. He worked hard as a bricklayer and only cut loose one night a week. He didn’t frequent the bars anymore, and usually held himself together enough to accompany Bree to church on Sunday morning.

He gazed bleakly at the TV, saw on the fuzzy screen only the pointless Sunday morning discussion programs. Stan moved his right elbow from his left knee and bent to retrieve his flask of generic vodka. He then snatched from the TV table the large, trapezoid-shaped bottle of generic cold meds. Decanting the green, gloppy liquid into a small plastic cup, he tossed it back like a shot of tequila. Next he unscrewed the vodka and took a bracing hit. The hair on his arms stood on end.

“I’m ready,” he said aloud, “for a Sunday without football.”

Keys rattled in the locket and through the front door walked Bree. She dropped her purse and a grocery bag on the parson’s table beside the entrance. She stared at her husband and offered up, “Shit-faced again, lover?”

“Is that what you learned at Sunday school today?” asked Stan, promptly falling off the sofa and bonking his head on the edge of the TV. 

As he lay there, dazed, Bree sashayed through the living room, took up a vase, removed the fresh-cut flowers and poured the water on her husband’s head. Stan sprang to life at once.

Stan shook himself like a dog. “What’s for lunch?” he slurred.

“Hash.  Don’t get up; I’ll serve you where you are.”

“Thanks, ‘hon.”

Bree brings him something ugly in a bowl.”

“Hey Bree, that’s the dog’s food dish.”

“Of course it is, I gave you dog food.”

“Bree, I can only take so much. You know I can leave you at any time.”

“Promises, promises. The checkout guy at the grocery lets me know, every time I shop, that he’s available. Good hair, nice teeth and a body that looks like a Greek statue. You really want to make threats?”

“You think you are so hot! Want to know what the secretaries for the union say about me?”

“Sure, I could use a good laugh.”

“They say I have great penmanship.”

They blink at the other for a moment, and then Bree hides her mouth with her hand and starts to giggle. Stan joins her. Soon they are laughing uproariously.

“Hey Bree, help your drunk old man up so we can watch something on TV.”

“OK, but after that I’ve got to put away groceries.”

Later they leave the TV on but ignore it while making out like a couple of teenagers. The ice cream melts in the bag on the table.

Poetry from Adalat Gafarov Izzet oglu

THE WORLD DOES NOT AGE

The world gets younger, the world does not age,

The sky that makes the world old does not rise,

Which person does not draw strength from God?

I am focused on your gaze.

What a good world you have created, God,

What a good, good thing you have created, God!

What a good world you have introduced to me, God,

I am drawn to your gaze.

You have a pure gaze in our mysterious world,

You have many unknown patterns,

You have a shower of light that will wash the world,

I am drawn to your gaze.

Life ends, the world does not grow old,

Not every person rises in your presence,

Does Justice not gain strength from this servant?

I am drawn to your gaze.