Dissertation Defense: Interdepartmental Scientific Seminar Held

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.

The Legacy of Amir Temur in the Minds of Youth

During the roundtable discussion, renowned Temur studies scholar, Candidate of Historical Sciences, and Professor Akbar Zamonov delivered an in-depth and analytical presentation. He elaborated on the personality of Amir Temur, his unique approaches to state governance, and the enduring relevance of his historical legacy in the modern world.

The primary objective of the event was to strengthen a sense of historical awareness and national pride among young people, while fostering key qualities such as strategic thinking, leadership, and responsibility through the example of Amir Temur.

The meeting featured an analytical lecture followed by an interactive Q&A session and open dialogue with students. This engagement not only enriched participants’ historical knowledge but also encouraged independent and critical thinking.

Students from the university’s History and Journalism programs actively participated in the roundtable discussion.

International Dialogue: Integrating Analysis and Education

During the visit, a substantive exchange of ideas took place with the esteemed guest — an international expert possessing extensive experience in journalism and educational management. The discussions focused on key global education trends, contemporary governance approaches, and emerging models of academic development, while also outlining prospective avenues for collaboration.

Particular attention was given to launching joint initiatives, including the organization of international conferences, the development of sustainable solutions, and the creation of evidence-based practical frameworks. The dialogue also emphasized knowledge exchange and the establishment of new academic platforms for students and researchers.

As a result of the meeting, mutual understandings were reached on expanding international scientific and analytical platforms, paving the way for deeper institutional cooperation.

Partnership with ETS: Advancing International Certification and Academic Mobility

The delegation was led by Anna Gutkowska-Zając, Regional Director for Eurasia and Central Asia at Educational Testing Service (ETS).

During the visit, both parties engaged in comprehensive discussions focused on enhancing the quality of education. Key areas of cooperation included professional development for faculty, the organization of joint training sessions, seminars, and webinars based on ETS-certified modern content, and the implementation of advanced methodologies in English language teaching.

Particular emphasis was placed on effective preparation for the TOEFL iBT examination, improving assessment literacy among students and educators, and fostering a systematic approach to international certification. In addition, both sides explored opportunities to establish a solid foundation for global academic mobility.

As a significant outcome of the visit, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the two institutions. The document outlines clear strategic priorities aimed at improving educational quality, expanding the adoption of innovative approaches, and strengthening international integration.

This partnership is expected to further reinforce long-term collaboration between the International Nordic University and ETS, contributing to sustainable development in education and broader global engagement.