BERLIN, May 28. /Dunyo IA/. Alisher Navoi Uzbek Language and Culture Center has commenced operations in the capital of Germany in the format of a pilot project, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

Established on the initiative of the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Germany, the Center is aimed at teaching the children of compatriots residing in the country their native language, national culture, historical heritage and traditional values.

The first classes in the Uzbek language and national culture have already been conducted at the Center. Prior to the opening lessons, Embassy diplomats congratulated the children and their parents on the launch of the new educational initiative and wished the students success in their studies.

It was noted that the initiative is being implemented within the framework of the Head of State’s programs aimed at supporting compatriots abroad. Particular emphasis was placed on the project’s alignment with the priority objectives of strengthening the spiritual connection of compatriots with their homeland, as well as fostering in the younger generation a strong sense of national identity and belonging to their native country.

The Center in Berlin is intended not only to teach children the Uzbek language, but also to familiarize them with the rich spiritual heritage, traditions, and national values of the Uzbek people. In addition, the project seeks to unite compatriots in Germany around the shared goal of enhancing the international standing and reputation of their homeland abroad.

The classes are designed for children between the ages of 7 and 15 and are organized in separate groups for younger schoolchildren and teenagers. More than 20 children took part in the first lessons.

The first lessons focused on the etiquette of greetings in national culture, the distinctive features of Uzbek and German cultural environments, as well as the state symbols of Uzbekistan. During the classes, children were given the opportunity to communicate in their native language, gain a deeper understanding of national traditions, and broaden their knowledge about Uzbekistan.

On the same day, a roundtable discussion was organized for parents, during which participants discussed issues related to teaching the younger generation the Uzbek language, fostering respect for national values, and strengthening the spiritual connection of children growing up abroad with their homeland through the role of family and the wider community.

The official opening ceremony of the Alisher Navoi Uzbek Language and Culture Center is scheduled for September of this year and will be dedicated to the 35th anniversary of Uzbekistan’s independence. The launch of the Center has become an important cultural and educational event for compatriots residing in Germany, particularly for the younger generation. It is expected that the Center’s activities will contribute to strengthening love for the native language, respect for national heritage, and pride in the country.

Compatriot and German language teacher Ugiloy Primova, in an interview with Dunyo Information Agency, spoke about the importance of the Center for the Uzbek diaspora:

- We are very pleased that, on the initiative of the Embassy of our country, the pilot project of the Alisher Navoi Uzbek Language and Culture Center for our children has begun its activities. I believe it is extremely important to teach children our language, culture, and traditions. Regardless of where we live, we must preserve and develop our national culture, and we highly appreciate this initiative. We, as compatriots, are also ready to contribute to the establishment and further development of this Center. This project will undoubtedly serve as a strong foundation for our children to study the Uzbek language while embracing national values and culture. We are delighted that our children now have the opportunity to learn the language and culture of their homeland here and to make new friends.