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Literature Night: A Look at the Art of Translation and the skills of a Master Translator
March 05 , 2025
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At Nordic University, a special “Literature Night” was held featuring Ibrohim G‘afurov—a renowned writer, exceptional translator, literary critic, recipient of the Order of Friendship, and Hero of Uzbekistan—alongside Rahmon Qo‘chqor, a distinguished literary scholar, recipient of the “Shuhrat” Medal, and the “Excellence in Public Education” titleholder.
Literature uplifts the soul, sharpens taste, and enlightens the mind. This traditional literary event, dedicated to the discussion of world-renowned masterpieces, focused on a deep analysis of Fyodor Dostoevsky’s Crime and Punishment.
The event, attended by students from the Journalism and Music Education faculties, was opened by Rector Sherzod Mustafakulov, who highlighted the creative journey of skilled translator Ibrohim G‘afurov and the author of the "Hayrat" show
Rahmon Qo‘chqor, as well as their significant contributions to literature and academia. He also spoke about Crime and Punishment, one of the most influential and widely analyzed works in world literature, and its unforgettable protagonist.
During the event, Ibrohim G‘afurov provided students with profound insights into the art of translation, its challenges, and the psychological and character intricacies reflected in Dostoevsky’s works.
“Journalism and literature are deeply connected. Discussing Dostoevsky’s works allows us to gain a deeper spiritual understanding of what literature truly is. My passion for literature ignited in childhood, and I believe that if a love for books is nurtured early, it lasts a lifetime, regardless of circumstances. Dostoevsky’s works introduce a fascinating new artistic dimension. When I realized that translation has the power to refine minds, influence morality, and unite people around significant issues, I developed a deep interest in this craft.
Engaging with world literature has transformed my life’s purpose—choosing and translating books that enrich the human spirit, expand knowledge, and promote wisdom, etiquette, and beauty. Dostoevsky’s works, in particular, lack redundancy; their sharp and beautifully structured narratives feel as familiar as our own literature. A translation must be so artistically perfect that the reader becomes fully immersed, experiencing no hesitation or doubt. The most noble and universal emotions must be conveyed as they are. Even as I re-read my own translation of Crime and Punishment before today’s event, I felt a profound sense of excitement and wonder…”
— Ibrohim G’afurov
At the event, Rahmon Qo‘chqor also shared a comprehensive analysis of Crime and Punishment, discussing the artistic brilliance of the novel, the phenomenon of Dostoevsky, and the translator’s unique mastery in capturing its essence. He emphasized that such translations enhance literary literacy and require deep reflection to truly comprehend. Describing Crime and Punishment, he noted that “it is not just the text, but an entire era that has been translated.” He also expressed appreciation for the significance of this literary gathering.
Students gained insight into the inspiration and challenges behind translation, explored hidden truths within the novel, and discovered new analytical perspectives.
The event also featured student reflections on Crime and Punishment, as well as a musical interlude by the “Nordic Taronasi” ensemble, performing classical pieces.
To conclude the gathering, the guests were honored for their participation, and the evening ended on a high note.
As part of the event, the “Yangi asr avlodi” Publishing House hosted a special exhibition of Ibrohim G‘afurov’s translations, including Dostoevsky’s works and many other newly published books.
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“Voice of Poetry”: A Celebration of Verse at Nordik!
Participants passionately recited their favorite poems, striving to convey not just the words, but the deeper meanings behind each line with vivid expression and emotional depth. Every performance stood out with its own unique tone and interpretation.
The most outstanding participants were recognized:
🥇 Ruxsora Khikmatova
🥈 Nodirbek Axadbekov
🥉 Solikha Kutbiddinova
Winners, along with all participants, were awarded certificates and memorable gifts.
✨ The evening once again proved that the magic of poetry has the power to unite hearts.
A High-Level Meeting Held at Nordic University
During the visit, the university leadership delivered a comprehensive presentation outlining Nordic’s activities, modern educational approaches, and achievements in international cooperation.
The distinguished guest paid particular attention to the university’s sustainable development model, the wide range of opportunities created for students, and its growing position within the global academic landscape.
Focus on Strategic Collaboration
The discussions centered on several key priorities, including:
establishing academic partnerships with leading higher education institutions in Norway
supporting joint research and innovation initiatives
developing international exchange programs for students and faculty members.
Towards Expanded Cooperation
The parties also exchanged views on implementing joint projects in education and innovation, as well as further expanding bilateral cooperation.
Recognition and Achievement: Foundation Graduates Awarded Certificates
The Certificate Awarding Ceremony, held at the University of World Economy and Diplomacy, vividly demonstrated the tangible outcomes of this system.
The event marked not merely a conclusion, but a significant milestone that opens the door to new academic and professional opportunities.
Organized at a high level, the ceremony was attended by distinguished figures, including statesman and scholar, Deputy Chairperson of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis, Rector of the University of World Economy and Diplomacy Sodiq Safoyev, as well as Rector of Nordic International University, Professor Sherzod Mustafakulov, and diplomat and Academic Lyceum Director Oydinxon Mannopova. In their remarks, they highly commended the students’ achievements, emphasizing that these results are the product of consistent effort and high-quality education. Graduates were encouraged to demonstrate perseverance, intellectual curiosity, and ambition in their future academic pursuits.
Notably, the effectiveness of the programme is also reflected in concrete figures. This year, 23 graduates were admitted directly into the second year of undergraduate studies — an indicator of both their academic readiness and the success of a modern educational model. In total, 54 graduates successfully completed the Foundation programme and were awarded certificates. As highlighted during the event, this figure has increased severalfold compared to last year’s 9 graduates, underscoring the programme’s growing impact.
The Foundation programme is evolving beyond a transitional phase into a robust mechanism for preparing competitive and capable professionals.
The ceremony was further enriched by musical performances that added a celebratory atmosphere. Lecturers from the Department of Music Education at Nordic International University, pop singers Charosxon Axmedova and Zarnigor Umarova, along with performers Aziz and Laziza from the “Nordik Taronasi” ensemble, delivered captivating performances that elevated the spirit of the event.
This ceremony once again demonstrated that the aspirations of young people are steadily transforming into real achievements. The heartfelt emotions and sincere gratitude expressed by both parents and graduates reflected the profound significance of this milestone.
48 Countries: The Road Is the Greatest Teacher
The guest speaker was renowned traveler and blogger Qobiljon Abdusattorov.
The session encouraged future professionals to look at their field—and the world—with a broader, more open perspective. Through Qobiljon’s stories, one powerful truth became clear once again: travel is far more than beautiful photos, stories, or reels.
The road is a journey of challenges, risks, and invaluable life lessons.
Since 2022, he has been traveling across the world by car—without using airplanes—and has already covered 48 countries. His ultimate goal is to enter the Guinness World Records (current record: 130 countries).
Behind these numbers lie nights spent on the road, unexpected dangers and trials, language barriers, and above all, the traveler’s unwavering determination.
During the meeting, students gained practical insights into:
how to start a journey in tourism,
how to effectively combine blogging with travel,
and how to navigate unexpected situations on the road.
As emphasized during the session, “To become a great specialist, one must first experience being a tourist.”
Indeed, tourism cannot be fully learned from textbooks alone. It must be felt, experienced, and lived—by stepping into the shoes of a traveler. This is where true knowledge begins.
At the end of the meeting, students who asked the most engaging and thoughtful questions were awarded memorable gifts.