Shamsullo Mirzoev: Second English Access Debate

Students pose with their certificates after the debate

     English Access students from Tajikistan gathered at the American Corner in Gharm for their second debate tournament, which took place between January 15th and 17th. Participants included four teams from Rasht Valley, two teams from Dushanbe, and one team from each region of Vahdat, Isfara and Penjakent.

Morgan Taylor, Information Officer at
the U.S. Embassy, meets with students

     Students were instructed in the methods and techniques of formal debating, with a particular focus placed on developing their public speaking, leadership skills, critical thinking, negotiation skills and communication skills. The workshop provided students with the unique opportunity to experience Rasht Valley’s famed hospitality; many of the participants had traveled outside of their respective regions. 

     

Anna Khandors, Fulbright ETA, presenting on education in the U.S.

     Topics debated include women’s roles in Tajik society and development, the importance of the English language, access to equal education, and the role of technology in changing the world. Along with the official tournament, students were treated to a variety of enriching seminars. Firdavs Nurov conducted a presentation on writing grant proposals and project reports; Anna Khandros, Fulbright English Teaching Assistant, spoke with the students about education and colleges in America. Mansur Hayotov and Mahina, Daler introduced the idea of photojournalism to the participants and its use in creating picture narratives. 

     All students were presented with a certificate for their outstanding work and commitment.