A special issue of OCA Magazine dedicated to Jizzakh has been published in London. In the pages of OCA Magazine: Jizzakh, writers from Uzbekistan, the United Kingdom, the United States, France, India, Bulgaria, and Finland addressed issues of heritage, history, economy, culture, and cuisine of one of Uzbekistan’s most promising regions.
Jizzakh has historically been of strategic importance to Uzbekistan, but the world knows very little about it. Jizzakh is the birthplace of two of the country’s leaders — Soviet era’s Sharaf Rashidov and incumbent President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
The cover story of the issue is about the life of Maria Shevel (Akhmedjanova) and her contribution to shaping the architectural appearance of Jizzakh and the operating sanatorium of the same name in the Zaamin National Reserve, which has long since become the national card of the region.
“I really enjoyed the article about Maria Akhmedjanova and her achievements in Jizzakh! She is a fantastic role model for Uzbek girls and women today, especially in science, technology, engineering, and math. I hope Uzbekistan benefits from her example and that she continues to inspire future generations. The OCA Magazine is an excellent way to introduce people to Uzbekistan and Central Asia. I enjoyed reading it very much!” says Jonas Astrup, Head of the Uzbekistan Vision 2030 Foundation of the United Nations in Uzbekistan.
The issue of the heritage of Jizzakh and the famous personalities connected with it was revealed in the articles devoted to the history of the development of the Hungry Steppe, to which Sharaf Rashidov made a great contribution. Sharaf Rashidov’s name is associated not only with the growth of industry and the development of the region, but also with literature and art. His ‘Kashmir Song’ has received special attention. The review of this wonderful book has been written by Shishir Raj, Advocate, Supreme Court of India, New Delhi.
The special issue of OCA Magazine: Jizzakh also features an article by Akhror Burkhanov, spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan, on the economic potential of this ‘hidden gem’ of the country. The theme of economic and energy development continued with an article by Oxford graduate Nick Rowan on the construction of a nuclear power plant, one of the most controversial issues.
The issue also focuses on education as one of the key areas of development in Jizzakh region. The article by Dr Pradeepa, Vice-Rector for Scientific Work at Sambhram University in Jizzakh, outlines some of the results of the development of education in Uzbekistan during the post-independence period and identifies key aspects for its further strengthening.
“It is exciting to read about further steps to develop and transform Uzbekistan’s education system, and about the development of the Higher Education Sector in Jizzakh Region,” says Steve King, Head of Education Reform, Europe and Central Asia, Cambridge University Press & Assessment.
In the pages of the magazine, readers can find not only an analysis of the region, but also information about its incredible and little-known tourist attractions, such as ancient castles or the legendary Dzhizak Samsa.
“Just love this new format issue as it allows one to get an in-depth view of a region of a country in this case…” H.E. The Hon., Lord Admiral Sir Dr. Thomas A. Cellucci commented on the publication.
The official presentation of the special issue of OCA Magazine: Jizzakh will take place in Jizzakh on 20 September as part of the international conference ‘The Literary Heritage of Sharaf Rashidov in the Context of the ‘New Uzbekistan’ Strategy’. The UK launch will take place as part of the OCA Dialogue Forum on 28-30 November in London and Greenock.
