Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The U.S. Embassy in Tashkent welcomed 20 American English teachers this week to begin teaching and professional development programs throughout Uzbekistan, joining local teachers to provide direct classroom instruction to students. 

These teachers are just one part of the U.S. Government’s vast commitment to strengthening English language education in Uzbekistan, including training more than 18,000 English teachers across the country, ensuring high-quality English instruction for the nation’s students. Since 2018, the U.S. Government has invested more than US$31.2 million in English language teaching and learning in Uzbekistan. The U.S. Embassy has partnered with the Ministry of Preschool and School Education and the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Innovations to support Uzbekistan’s education reforms and to ensure that graduates are equipped with the linguistic and professional skills needed to support Uzbekistan’s economy. 

The 20 American educators will support English language teaching and learning in 10 different regions of Uzbekistan for the 2024-2025 academic year. Upon completing their grants, they will return to the United States to share their experiences and Uzbek culture, fostering deeper connections between the two countries. Since 2019, 98 American English teachers have worked at 21 public schools and more than 30 universities across Uzbekistan.

U.S. Ambassador to Uzbekistan Jonathan Henick welcomed the American teachers during their orientation in Tashkent on Monday. “You all are playing an integral role not only in improving English language skills, but in strengthening cultural connections between the United States and Uzbekistan,” he said.