Collaboration with English Universities for Engineering English Modules
The Andijan State Institute of Foreign Languages considers establishing and strengthening connections with higher education institutions in developed countries, particularly with prestigious universities in England, as one of its primary activities. This collaboration has rapidly advanced, especially with renowned English institutions such as NILE and the University of Reading. Several projects are being implemented with these universities, utilizing their expertise in developing educational programs. To further strengthen collaboration and gain experience, Institute Rector Dilshodbek Rustamov visited universities in England.
England is known for its long-standing traditions and extensive academic infrastructure. During the visit, the rector met with representatives from the University of Leeds (TOP-150), the University of Reading (TOP-250), the University of East Anglia (TOP-250), London Business School (TOP-3 by Subject), and NILE. Agreements were made to enhance the development of the institute, including signing contracts and reaching agreements on various matters.
The meeting with representatives from the prestigious University of Leeds, which is ranked in the TOP-150 globally, was particularly productive. Discussions included opportunities for faculty and researcher exchanges, joint educational and academic programs, and the establishment of joint doctoral programs, focusing on learning from advanced practices in the field.
One significant outcome was the exchange of ideas about implementing a tailored English language module for professions that require specialized English skills, such as engineers and construction professionals, in Uzbekistan. It was agreed that Leeds University would assist in developing these specialized English teaching modules.
In a video conference dedicated to preparing engineering professionals, our esteemed President noted, «This year, 122 new major projects will start. This means that in the coming years, we need 10,000 engineers and technologists who can work with complex technologies.» The importance of English language skills in training engineers and technologists was emphasized. The agreement with Leeds University to implement such modules at our institute is a significant achievement.
Additionally, to expand connections not only administratively but also among faculty, an online forum will be organized. Discussions also positively concluded on developing educational programs in collaboration, aligning them with the curricula of TOP-300 universities.
Meetings with David Carter, Head of the International Relations Department at the University of Reading, and other university officials resulted in a memorandum of understanding. This agreement includes joint scientific projects, collaborative research, and the organization of international conferences on English language teaching issues, among other matters. The agreement also included provisions for 20 students from Reading University to participate in a summer camp in Andijan.
Rector Rustamov also visited the NILE Language Institute in Norwich, a leading research and teaching center in language education. Meetings with NILE Director Tom Kiddle focused on various collaboration issues, leading to agreements on sending faculty for professional development, student exchanges, and offering a 20% discount for ADCHTI faculty.
Negotiations with representatives of the University of East Anglia were also highly beneficial. As a TOP-250 university with significant academic potential, the discussions resulted in agreements on appointing scientific advisors for the institute’s researchers, joint research projects, and collaborative academic publications. Plans were made for international conferences on linguistics and language learning, as well as for expanding student and faculty exchange opportunities.
The visit to London Business School, known for its rich history and prestigious alumni network, led to agreements with Dean Kim Soin and Business Development Manager Gaurav Jain on enhancing collaboration.
During the trip, Rector Rustamov also met with our compatriots studying at the master’s level at London Business School, Alisher Khoshimjanov, and Sabriya Latipova, who is currently studying at the University of Reading on a scholarship from the «El-yurt umidi» foundation.
The trip to England was highly productive and beneficial. Agreements and contracts were signed to potentially include Andijan State Institute of Foreign Languages in the global TOP-1000 universities list, adapt educational programs and curricula to those of leading educational institutions in developed countries, and apply their best practices to the educational process, ultimately aiming to prepare world-class professionals. These efforts are expected to bear fruit in the future.
