Nordic University Navruz Celebration
March 21 , 2025
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On March 21, Nordic International University widely celebrated the Eastern New Year — the national holiday Navruz — under the inspiring slogan "May Your Values Remain Eternal, Navruz."
As nature awakens with the breath of spring, the university grounds were adorned with festive spring decorations reflecting our national heritage. The Nordic community welcomed this beautiful occasion in traditional Uzbek attire, demonstrating unity and hospitality.
As part of the "Uzbekistan Trek-2025" program, Nordic University warmly welcomed a group of Harvard University master's students and researchers visiting Uzbekistan.
The rector of Nordic University, professor Sherzod Mustafakulov, congratulated the event participants and guests, extending his heartfelt wishes.
Charos Akhmedova, a teacher at Nordic University and winner of the international competition "European Stars," along with Zarnigor Umarova — a talented singer, "Nihol" award winner, and participant in the international music show "The Voice" — captivated the audience with their outstanding performances. Other gifted vocalists also delighted the guests with their artistry.
The immortal spirit of Navruz, with its universal and timeless values, shone brightly as international guests from various countries were invited to explore the university grounds. Guests admired beautifully arranged tables filled with traditional delicacies from different regions of Uzbekistan, spring dishes, exhibits of folk arts, handicrafts, and national attire.
The traditional "full cauldron" ritual, symbolizing abundance and prosperity, was showcased. The time-honored dish sumalak, cooked overnight, was served to the guests. Freshly baked kuk samsa was presented straight from the tandir ovens, and fragrant Uzbek pilaf was generously offered.
Throughout the celebration, guests eagerly participated in traditional games such as tug-of-war and besh tosh. Women also engaged in the customs of applying usma and henna.
Colorful kites filled the clear sky, and doves — symbols of peace and friendship — were released into the air.
The Harvard University guests expressed their gratitude to Nordic University for the memorable celebration and warm hospitality.
As a token of appreciation, they were presented with traditional Uzbek clothing.
Members of the distinguished delegation, representing various nationalities, witnessed Uzbek customs firsthand, actively joining in the festivities. They left heartfelt impressions in Nordic University's "Dil Izhorlari"(expressions of the heart) book.
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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.
Point of View: A Powerful Force Showcasing National Prestige
In an article published in the Xalq so‘zi newspaper and authored by the Rector of the International Nordic University, Sherzod Mustafakulov, the key priorities emphasized during the meeting are thoroughly analyzed, alongside a number of forward-looking approaches and proposals aimed at building an effective system.
As highlighted in the article, a continuous vertical integration model — “school–federation–university” — ensures the consistent development of talented youth, while individualized development programs remain crucial for each athlete. Particular attention is also given to advancing the sports economy, establishing clubs and academies, ensuring digital transparency, and strengthening the integration of science and sports. Sport, it is argued, should become one of the central pillars of the national development strategy.
To deepen the analysis, the article also examines the best international practices in promoting mass sports development.
A more comprehensive insight and extended perspectives can be found in the April 10 issue of Xalq so‘zi.