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 Kukeldash madrasah impressed the foreign guests not only with its historical appearance but also with how it embodies our nation’s rich traditions of science, culture, and craftsmanship.
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During this seminar–practical project lesson in the subject Logopedia II, third-year students actively participated in group work and demonstrated their creative approaches.
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On October 25, 2025, the official opening ceremony of the Rowan University Center was held at the Nordic International University.
On October 25, 2025, the official opening ceremony of the Rowan University Center was held at the Nordic International University.
The Center was established in line with the instructions of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan to develop the higher education system based on international standards, expand cooperation with prestigious foreign universities, and improve the quality of personnel training.
Organized in partnership with the prestigious Rowan University (USA) (https://www.rowan.edu/), the opening ceremony was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Higher Education, the Republican Scientific-Methodological Center for Education Development, officials from the U.S. Embassy, the leadership of Rowan and Nordic Universities, academics, media representatives, and the general public.
Rowan University, located in New Jersey, USA, is a dynamic public institution known for its innovative approach and has recently been recognized in U.S. rankings as one of the “fastest-growing universities.”
During the ceremony, the symbolic ribbon was cut by Dr. Ali Houshmand, President of Rowan University, an internationally renowned scholar and reform-oriented leader; Kungratboy Sharipov, Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation; and the leadership of Nordic University.
Opening the event, Professor Sherzod Mustafakulov, Rector of the Nordic International University, emphasized that the establishment of this center represents not only an achievement for Nordic University but also a new milestone for Uzbekistan in the field of international education. He highlighted that the new center will bring new opportunities, ideas, and open the doors of global education for the youth.
Minister Kungratboy Sharipov noted that this day marks a historic and proud moment for higher education in Uzbekistan, stating:
“We express our deep gratitude to the leadership and team of the Nordic International University and Rowan University, as well as to all specialists who actively participated in implementing this project. I am confident that the Rowan University Center will play a vital role in preparing innovative, globally competitive professionals in our country. It will give new impetus not only to students but also to our entire education system.”
“The collaboration between Rowan University and the Nordic International University symbolizes the exchange of knowledge, innovation, and international experience. Together, we aim to provide students with globally competitive education,” said Dr. Ali Houshmand during his speech.
Dr. Houshmand was also awarded the honorary title of “Honorary Professor” of the Nordic International University.
Alisher Juraev, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Nordic International University and Honorary Consul of Finland in Uzbekistan, noted that the Rowan University Center will offer educational programs aligned with U.S. academic standards for Uzbek and international students, as well as joint scientific projects, student and faculty exchange programs.
Distinguished guests highlighted that the establishment of the Rowan University Center is a significant step toward strengthening international higher education ties, integrating education and innovation, and aligning the training of professionals in pedagogy, engineering, IT, and medicine with global standards.
Fighting Ignorance Through Enlightenment!
The meeting was organized in cooperation with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation and the International Islamic Academy of Uzbekistan. During the event, Ramzjon Isakdjonov, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Islamic Studies at the Academy, emphasized the importance of combating ignorance through spiritual wealth, knowledge, and intellect.
The event, moderated by Najmiddin Qodirov, Head of the Department for Youth Affairs and Spiritual Development at NIU, featured the university’s Vice-Rector and the Rector’s Advisor on ensuring socio-spiritual stability. They held an open dialogue with students on key topics such as human dignity, rights, tolerance, and patriotism.
Under the slogan “The Primacy of Human Dignity and Rights — the Foundation of Progress,” students were encouraged to treat everyone with respect in their interactions.
The speeches also highlighted that Islam is based on the principles of peace, tolerance, and mutual respect, and that the most effective weapon against ignorance and fanaticism is knowledge and enlightenment.