EWB National Conference and EL Expo 2024 in Dushanbe: A Landmark Event in English Language Teaching
Dushanbe, Tajikistan, October 25-26 – The fourth annual EWB National Conference and English Language Expo brought together over 120 English language professionals from across Tajikistan, with special guests and speakers from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, the USA, Russia, Ghana, and Egypt. This year’s theme, “Empowering English Language Teaching: Innovation, Inclusivity, and Sustainable Professional Development,” underscored a commitment to advancing English language education through transformative practices.
Attendees engaged with a rich lineup of topics, including Leveraging Technology for Innovative English Language Teaching, Effective English Language Teacher Development and Professionalism, Culturally Responsive and Inclusive English Language Teaching, and Prioritizing Student Engagement and Motivation.
The conference featured a thought-provoking panel discussion titled “Impactful Outcomes of Educational Programs in Tajikistan: Progress and Challenges.” Esteemed panelists included Nafisa Gulshaeva from The Aga Khan Education Service (AKES), Mina Gavell from American Councils Tajikistan, Zarina Kurbonbekova from INCLUSION: Promotion of Social Change and Inclusive Education in Tajikistan, and Nasiba Mirpochoeva from EWB Network, who shared valuable insights on the successes and obstacles in educational initiatives within the region.
Key sessions included 15 in-person and 3 online workshops, two poster sessions with over 30 presenters, and an English Language Expo that showcased the contributions of organizations working in the education sector across Tajikistan. This dynamic event offered participants extensive opportunities to exchange best practices, build networks, and celebrate professional achievements.
Highlighting the celebration of excellence, Zarrina Mirzo was awarded EWB Innovative Teacher of the Year 2024, and Dilfuza Goibova received the EWB Inspirational Teacher of the Year award. Additional recognition was given to the Most Active EWB Webinars Participants and 21 newly certified EWB Master Trainers. A special tribute was made to Munavar Zaripova, honored as the newest EWB Honorary Member, for her impactful role as an EWB Regional Representative in Sughd, where she built a thriving community and continues her dedication as an EWB Master Trainer and mentor.
The EWB National Conference and EL Expo 2024 served as a powerful platform for learning, collaboration, and professional growth, sparking new ideas and connections that will further elevate English language education across the region.