AUCA Magazine Spring 2013 by AUCA

AUCA Magazine American University of Central Asia

December 2012

CONTENTS 05 Editor’s Note 05 Message From the President 05 University Update: 05 Bank of Asia Scholarships 05 Breaking Down the Debates 05 Parliament’s Website and Related Issues 05 Media Camp: Russian and Central Asian Youth Leaders 05 In Memory of I. Razzakov

05 Initiation Photo Page 05 Feature: Citizen Media 05 Chris Rickleton 05 Nick Robbins 05 1 Interviews – Dinara 05 Alumni Spotlight: 05 ONE Mag 05 20th Anniversary

AUCA Magazine American University of Central Asia, founded in 1993, is dedicated to educating leaders for the democratic transformation of the region. It is the most dynamic and student-empowering education available, and is the only university in Central Asia with the authority to grant degrees accredited in the United States. AUCA equips its graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to solve problems and open doors in this rapidly changing and developing region and the world beyond...

Publication team Editor-in-Chief: Sven Stafford Copy Editors: Nick Robbins, Svetlana Jacquesson

Contributors: Natali Anarbaeva Altynai Sydykova Nick Robbins Rodger Dillon Chris Rickleton Dinara Orozbaeva Sven Stafford

Pictures: AUCA Archives Aaron Choi Emil Akhmatbekov

Design and Layout: Emil Akhmatbekov

On the cover: "The Kyrgyz Family Tree" by Aaron Choi

You may send your correspondence and subscription inquiries to: AUCA Magazine | American University of Central Asia, 205 Abdymomunov St., Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic 720040 | Tel./Fax: (996 312) 66-45-64, E-mail: magazine@mail.auca.kg, www.auca.kg

The AUCA Magazine has evolved over the past two years from a collection of alumni stories to a theme-based, university-wide publication. We work hard to bring these themes alive in the pages of this magazine with the goal of providing a deeper look into the impact of AUCA students, faculty, and alumni in Central Asia and around the world. In this issue we are breaking more new ground by publishing articles in Russian as well as English. We do so in recognition that the stories we tell have a greater impact on the region around us, and that we want more people in Central Asia to have access to those stories of success and innovation, of democracy and freedom. In future issues we plan to run 1-2 articles in Russian, while keeping the main feature, university updates, and alumni spotlights in English. In our inaugural bilingual edition it is appropriate that we are dealing with the theme of journalism. All over the world it is getting harder to distinguish between objective journalism and opinion. The advent of online and social media blurs the line even further, and has the added danger of entrenching our beliefs, as we close ourselves to whole groups of people and ideas that do not show up on our newsfeed on Facebook. AUCA students, faculty, and alumni are some of the most innovative users of this new media, as well as abusers of it. In this issue you will read about AUCA students from Central Asia who are helping create ‘citizen media’, writing for local audiences, often under pseudonyms to protect themselves, with commentary on everything from government policy to local fashion shows. You will also find out about the role that social media played in the 2010 revolution through research done by AUCA affiliated Fulbright fellow Nora Williams. Finally we have an external assessment of AUCA’s reputation as a result of all its media activity from one of the leading Kyrgyz journalists.

Sincerely, Sven Stafford Editor-In-Chief

I would like to use this last paragraph to thank previous editor Altynai Usubalieva for her great work, and wish her the best from our staff as she and her husband await the arrival of their first child. I would also like to acknowledge the work of Emil Akmahtbekov and Aaron Choi, who provide most of the layout and pictures for our publication.

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We wish everyone a happy and safe holiday season, and hope to see you next year in 2013 as AUCA celebrates its 20th anniversary.

AUCA Magazine*December 2012

President's Column

Welcome to the Winter 2013 issue of the AUCA Magazine. After lots of internal discussion, we are trying some new things with this issue to try to reach out to a broader range of readers and to remain relevant in our increasingly virtual world. One way for AUCA to think about how to do this is to continue to train journalists, both to work in traditional media outlets (which still dominate the scene in Kyrgyzstan) and to be prepared for future developments in new media. The article in this issue that deals with citizen journalism is particularly important, as it illustrates the complexities and potentials for an entirely new world of information gathering and transmission, but one that we are sure has the potential to grow. At the same time, AUCA is not neglecting other media. If you have been around our building recently, you might have noticed a brand new media room filled with 20 Macintosh computers loaded with the latest video editing capabilities, which came to the university as part of a grant from USAID. With these computers and our existing video camera equipment, we are planning an expansion of AUCA’s television journalism, and are even ne-

Andrew B. Wachtel President

gotiating with one of the local cable channels to create a permanent AUCA television channel. Finally, with the support of the Hersh Chadha Family, we have been expanding what we offer in terms of photography classes, and in the new building there will be several classrooms dedicated to our program in journalism and mass communication supported by the Chadha Family.

On the subject of the new campus, those living in Bishkek will have already had the opportunity to see that the core and shell of the building has already reached the third floor and that what used to be merely a dream is becoming (slowly) a reality. You can see construction photographs on our Facebook site (http://www.facebook.com/MyAUCA), and we hope that all readers of this magazine will follow our progress and that all of you will buy a brick to support the construction of AUCA’s new home (http://www.auca.kg/en/brick).

2013 will mark the 20th anniversary of AUCA’s founding. In the course of the year we will have a series of events to mark this momentous occasion, and we invite all readers of the AUCA Magazine to participate to make our celebrations as exciting and momentous as possible, leading up to our move to the new campus, where AUCA will spend the next 20 … 50 … 100 years.

AUCA Magazine*December2012

University update

Bank of Asia

by Sven Stafford

Scholarships

CJSC “Bank of Asia” was established on February 10, 1998, is one of the leading banking institutions in the Kyrgyz Republic. The Bank of Asia ‘Future Support’ program will give

Nazira Beishenalieva, a member of the Bank of Asia Board of Trustees, herself an AUCA alumna, said that many students outside of Bishkek think that AUCA is out of their reach, that even if they are talented enough to get in, that they will never be able to afford it. Nazira was originally moved by the experience of her housekeeper, who was working 3 jobs to be able to send her son to AUCA. Her son did not know that she was doing household labor to pay for his education, and despite all her work, she was falling short of making tuition payments. Nazira decided to step in and help, but she also realized that there were far more students like this one that could benefit from such financial support.

scholarships to students from the regions of the Kyrgyz Republic who demonstrate financial need and outstanding talent. When Nazira originally proposed the program to her board, many asked why they should spend money to send students to AUCA as opposed to the National University of Kyrgyzstan or one of the other state schools. Nazira was adamant that it be AUCA. She said that AUCA is one of the only universities that can guarantee a quality education, and also one of the only universities that can ensure that the scholarship money goes towards education. The scholarships will be awarded to 2 seniors, 2 juniors, 3 sophomores, and 3 freshmen. Each year 3 new freshmen will be awarded with the scholarship and internship program. To find out more details about the program, how it is administered and how the selection process works, please go to www.auca.kg/en/scholarships.

www.auca.kg

AUCA and Bank of Asia are partnering to help increase access to high quality education. Through a new Bank of Asia Scholarship Program, 10 students from the regions of the Kyrgyz Republic will receive a $1,000 scholarship towards their tuition at AUCA. The initial 5-year program will help 20 students to attend AUCA. The students will also receive summer internships at Bank of Asia, which has offices around the entire country.

President Andrew Wachtel and the Member of Advisory Board at Bank of Asia Nazira Beishenalieva signing the certificates

AUCA Magazine*December 2012

University Update

Breaking Down

by Natali Anarbaeva

the Debates

Ambassador Pamela Spratlen and AUCA President Andrew Wachtel sat down with 100 university students on Wednesday, October 24, to breakdown the final presidential debate between Governor Mitt Romney and President Barack Obama. The two Americans shed light not only on important foreign policy issues, but also on the motivations of the candidates, the audiences they were addressing, and the hubris required to become commander-in-chief of the most powerful military in the world. Ambassador Spratlen opened the meeting by remarking that despite dire and destabilizing events in US history, the American people have voted every four years for president, without fail, since the country was founded over 200 years ago. The Ambassador also urged students to see the debate not as an outline of future American foreign policy, but rather as two candidates trying to convince the last set of undecided American voters to vote for them. Students from AUCA, Manas University, Kyrgyz National University, Russian Slavonic University, and the the Academy of Management under

the President of the Kyrgyz Republic attended the event. Several student questions revolved around how a change in leadership would affect American foreign policy. President Wachtel commented on the ridiculousness of the candidatesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; positions, saying that it is impossible to believe that a simple change in leadership in the United States could possibly lead, for example, to a peaceful and prosperous Middle East in four years. Ambassador Spratlen agreed, but also reminded the audience that somebody running for President of the United States does so because they believe they are in a unique position to change the world for the better. An exchange student from France asked why there was no mention of broader global issues such as poverty and disease. Ambassador Spratlen agreed that those issues are important both in the United States as well as around the world. She also said that, despite their importance, the debate over the past year has been framed around the economic success of the middle class and the US deficit. President Wachtel was

blunter, saying that it is good that these issues are important to French students, but that French students cannot vote in US elections. The event lasted an hour, the majority of the time devoted to answering student questions. Questions were prompted through showing small clips from the debate itself, but the main focus of the event was to frame the debate and the process of the debate for a non-American audience. President Obama won re-election, winning 332 of the 538 electoral votes. Anyone interested in finding out more about US elections and how they work can visit the US Embassy site at: http://bishkek.usembassy.gov/.

Barack Obama wins a second term

Results as of 01.00 EST (06.00 UTC 10.00 MSK 17.00 AEST 22.00 PST 6 November)

BARACK OBAMA

538 6

AUCA Magazine*December2012

332 Total Electoral Votes

206

270

MITT ROMNEY

Electoral Votes Needed to Win the Presidency

University Update

Media Camp:

by Natali Anarbaeva Russian and Central Asian Youth Leaders

The media camp was held

built media production skills including

as rising nationalism in Central Asian

on August 17 – 30 in the Kyrgyz Re-

print, video, photography and new

states are dangerous trends propagated

public. The participants spent 2 days in

media tools.

through local media. Propaganda and

Bishkek and 12 days at Issyk-Kul. The

one-sided stereotypical coverage of

12-day media camp provided interac-

interactive sessions and 16 practical

problems and events published in Rus-

tive theoretical and practical workshops

sessions. The interactive component of

sia and Central Asia build caricatures of

for better understanding of develop-

the sessions was a requirement at the

countries and people as well as fuel a

ments in and between the Central

media camp. At the end of the camp

lack of understanding and even arouse

Asian states and Russian Federation.

the students were split into 6 groups

hatred between nations.

The project’s main objective was to

to take part in a competition to create

The media camp Promoting

improve objective regional coverage as

a media project to promote the ideals

Dialogue between Russian and Central

well as to build tolerance and promote

espoused at the camp. The winning

Asian Youth Leaders aimed to raise

mutual understanding.

group, “The Media Beard,” launched

the capacity of young leaders from

The media camp consisted of

The curriculum consisted of 16

several social media sites devoted to fa-

five Central Asian states (Kyrgyzstan,

daily workshops - both theoretical and

cial hair and its meaning in the lives of

Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan

practical - which were open to discus-

Central Asian and Russian people. To

and Tajikistan) and the Russian Feder-

sions of existing problems to increase

see some of the results you can follow

ation to see through the biases in the

the level of tolerance, intercultural

the links below.

media and in their own writing. The

communications, and consequences

camp was funded by the Open Society

of nationalism among the participants.

MediaBeard, Facebook: http://www.

Foundations, and implemented by the

The project made the participants think

facebook.com/MediaBeard, and blog:

American University of Central Asia’s

critically about how they portrayed

http://mediabeard.wordpress.com/

Journalism and Mass Communications

stereotypes, approached traditional

department.

media, and developed stories. It also

Twitter: https://twitter.com/

The Media Camp was sponsored by the Open Society Foundations (OSF). OSF has operated in Central Asia for the past 20 years, and has played an integral role in promoting democracy in the region. OSF is also a long-time supporter of AUCA, sponsoring scholarships for students from the region, and academic fellowships for local professors with Western Masters and Ph.D. degrees. More information on OSF and their programs can be found at: http://www.opensocietyfoundations.org/

AUCA Magazine*December 2012

www.auca.kg

Xenophobia in Russia, as well

Memory of

by Dinara Orozbaeva

Iskhak Razzakov

AUCA students and faculty spend the majority of their time working for the future of Central Asia. This year AUCA has taken the time to look to leaders from the past for inspiration to move forward. As part of this effort, a room in the main campus, the former office of Iskhak Razzakov, is being rennovated as a memorial to the former Head Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Kyrgyzstan. The goal of the memorial is to remind students, all of whom were born after the collapse of the Soviet Union, of the events that helped shape the present day Kyrgyz Republic, and as an amazing reminder that the American University, where they

AUCA Magazine*December2012

currently study, used to be the office headquarters of the Kyrgyz Soviet. Iskhak Razzakov is remembered as a progressive head of the communist party in Kyrgyzstan. He was appointed in 1945 as Chairman of the National Commisars of Kyrgyzstan, and then in 1950 appointed as Head Secretary. He served in this post until 1961, when he was removed for being too supportive of Kyrgyz nationalism. Most of these efforts were squashed by Russian authorities, but Razzakov's support of Kyrgyz history being taught in schools remained even after his removal. Razzakov also implemented several large infrastructure projects

still important to the country today. The Kant-Chuysk railway connects Bishkek by rail to Kazakhstan and Russia. The Ortotokoyskoe resevoir and the Great Chuysk Canal were also projects begun under Razzakov that helped modernize the country. Razzakov also helped found the Academy of Science and commissioned the State Theater of Opera and Ballet, still popular today. Razzakov worked out of the office that is currently room 315 at AUCA. The walls are wood-panneled and thick, with two large chandaliers illuminating the most opulent room of the common laborer. Until last year AUCA has used the room for

Scenes from the opening of the Razzakov Museum at AUCA. Left: AUCA Razzakov Library Collection; Below Top: NGA students; President Wachtel

Pictures of Razzakov are now decorating the walls of 315, and AUCA is in the process of beginning a library collection in his honor. So far the modest collection includes original printings of Razzakov's own works, as well as pieces written during the time he was in office. On the occasion of his 102nd birthday students from AUCA's New Generation Academy gathered to present biographical

research that they had completed as part of an effort to develop resources for the new memorial. AUCA will continue to probe into the past for leadership examples that can help our students and alumni to move the country forward. As AUCA plans to move into a new building in less than two years, it will become even more important that students and faculty find ways to connect to the past, lest they run into the future blind to the mistakes and successes already achieved.

www.auca.kg

guest lectures, meetings with official delegations, and other important university business. This summer the administration decided that the room should also be used as a memorial to the secretary that helped champion Kyrgyz culture and values.

AUCA Magazine*December 2012

The Jogorku Kenesh and Citizens’ Access:

by Rodger Dillon

Parliament’s Website and Related Issues

Unlike the case in many countries, citizens of Kyrgyzstan find it difficult to enter the house where their laws are made. The parliaments of many countries allow individuals to pass relatively freely into the building where legislative hearings and formal floor sessions of the members are being held, subject only to a screening for hidden weapons. At the White House in Bishkek attending generally requires an appointment, or special permission. This is not to say that it is impossible for a citizen to get in. As with many countries and their parliaments, a website and access through the internet is a convenient way for citizens to interact with the governing process. And a good website provides a critical source of information about lawmaking and developments in the government. In the case of limited or restricted access to lawmakers and their daily activities – as is the case in Kyrgyzstan – it is particularly important that the website be comprehensive and fully functional. Kyrgyzstan has not yet achieved this. Gaps exist

AUCA Magazine*December2012

that compromise a free and effective exchange between citizens and their lawmakers. An Overview of the JK Website First, credit must be given where it is due. The lawmakers and staff of the Jogorku Kenesh have created, since the beginning of 2011, a website (http://www.kenesh.kg/) on which there is a great deal of useful information. Members of the JK have clearly been working hard to build out the site, implementing their ideas and getting assistance from local professional website developers, the United Nations Development Program, the Parliamentary Strengthening Program of DAI/USAID, and others. Notably, one of the links on the JK website now leads to the record of the votes of individual members of parliament on specific legislation as each measure has come before the JK for final decision. This information was difficult to obtain just last year, even though such information is vital in order that society and the various interests (teachers, taxi drivers, busi-

ness persons) may determine which MPs are supporting or opposing matters of concern to them. It is commendable that JK leaders have moved forward to provide citizens with this information. In addition, there is a much more available on the website: Rules of Procedure; News; Agendas for JK committee meetings, JK meetings, and Faction meetings; an About Parliament section, including the KR Constitution; Work Schedules; Bills and their movement; Voting Results; the JK Structure, with information about Factions, Committees, a list of JK MPs and their biographies; and a JK Apparatus section that includes information on the senior staff and their telephone contacts. Further, there is a link for Resolutions of the JK; a Press-Center of the JK; Useful Links; and – importantly – a Feedback section where people enter their name and contact information and may then pose a question. Begin to consider, however,

what is not on this website. Suppose a citizen in Naryn or Osh wants to send a copy of a report to an MP who he or she knows is a particular champion/supporter of agriculture. It would be difficult to send such a report to that particular MP because there are no email addresses or telephone numbers for the individual MPs on the JK website. Similarly, if someone thought that the study was important enough to send to all members, the email addresses that would make this possible are not on the website. Some observers of the JK argue that some MPs are not yet accustomed to frequent use of email, but it would seem logical to assume that the individual MPs have some obligation to set up their office and establish an email address in order to facilitate communication with their constituents, the citizens of the Kyrgyz Republic. Some other gaps:

Only two of the Political Parties have an email address on the JK website.

•

On the link for the parliamentary committees only two of the committees have email addresses listed.

•

Three committees have no contact information whatsoever. The committees are where draft bills receive their earliest serious consideration by committees that are devoted to the relevant subject matter.

•

None of the links on the JK website list the member-by-member votes in the parliamentary committees.

•

There is no link to a “How a Bill Becomes a Law” section, where people may be guided to an understanding of how parliament works, and the steps by which laws are adopted. Conclusions and Recommendations

Parliament needs to be more clear in identifying legislation. Although parliament gives proposed legislation a Registration Number, the parliament and its members seldom provide that number when discussing the proposed legislation in public. Nor do the public media provide any reference or registration number when reporting on the legislative news. Many other governmental jurisdictions deal with this issue by establishing a practice of commonly referring to proposed legislation by its assigned registration or reference number, for example SB415 (2012). Identifying them in this way needs to be the common practice, both among parliament members and the media.

Parliament should also provide analysis for all legislation. There should be a reflection of the possible issues, of possible unintended consequences, and the list of constituencies for and against. An analysis of a bill should have a standard form of presentation with, for example, plain-language sections on:

1. Background of the issue 2. What is the current law on this specific matter? 3. What does this bill do to change that law? 4. Arguments of the supporters 5. Arguments of the opponents (if any) 6. Which organizations and/or individuals support this legislation? 7. Which organizations and/or individuals oppose this legislation?

Given that the members of the JK have provided plenty of evidence that they are committed to improving the JK website, it may well be that some of the gaps described here will soon be remedied. Also, it is certainly the case that resources in the country are limited at present, so it may be difficult to speedily close all the loopholes. However, officials in the Jogorku Kenesh, and government, should move forward to make the JK website a more efficient medium for lawmakers-to-citizens and citizens-to-lawmakers communications.

AUCA Magazine*December 2012

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•

Initiation 2012 Initiation is the best expression of the AUCA Spirit. During the first week of every November the AUCA freshmen class, after completing their first midterms, is welcomed into the AUCA community in a raucous concert featuring 60 of their talented classmates. This year was no different, and after the show we invited some of our outside guests to give us their opinion on what they saw. Kregg Halstead, Chief of Party, USAID Kyrgyzstan Parliamentary Strengthening Program - It’s great to see the self-confidence of these young people. Their performance was very professional, and during the show I was thinking to myself that in ten years, when these students start coming into public service resolute, dynamic, and positive, that should be a pretty good show as well. I wish all the students the persistence to make it through the challenges they will face in the future, and have every confidence that AUCA will help guide them on their way. Azamat Arykov, Film director - I am used to going to pretty boring concerts with trite speeches and overscripted, tight performaces. This show bewitched me, and everything from the dancing to the singing to the production was really impressive. It was awesome, and I’m glad I saw it. Stanislav Karpovich, AUCA Board Member, AUCA Class of ‘97

- Nikolay Shulgin was in full force here, but I still give full marks to the students. They were real professionals tonight. All the dancers and singers gave off a real positive energy. It just goes to show that AUCA students are different. I’m a little biased because I went to AUCA, but I think it’s true that our students think differently, expect success, take on responsibility, and enjoy being decision makers. I know that many are in a hurry to graduate and make their way, and I’m sure they will, but it is important to soak up moments like these. The success will come, but the road to success, and the way you walk it, are equally important.

AUCA Magazine*December2012

www.auca.kg AUCA Magazine*December 2012

Becoming the Media:

by Chris Rickleton

The Rise of Citizen Journalism

To whomever had a taste for tea

century, it was explorers from these

can be a journalist. This phenomenon

and the time to listen, Central Asia has

countries that assumed the role of

- often referred to as ‘Citizen Media’

always told its own stories. Whether

relaying the region’s narratives to the

or ‘Citizen Journalism’ - has troubled

in the form of animated monologues

outside world. Under the Bolshevik

autocratic governments across the

imparted by Kyrgyz Manaschi, the

yoke, whole traditions of story-telling

planet and challenged traditional news

verses of the Persian wanderer Omar

were suppressed in favour of bulletins

outlets to update their way of thinking.

Khayyam, or just the idle chatter of

from the Soviet newspaper, Pravda.

the chaikhana, the lands which hosted

If Central Asian peoples continued

mentators still struggle to describe this

the Old Silk Road have long been

to pass their personal and collective

moment without resorting to clichés.

hotbeds of legend, poetic insight and

histories onto future generations then

To some, the world of “Twitter Revolu-

swirling rumour, - networks across

they did so quietly, in the shadows of

tions”, “Cyber Warfare” and “Viral Vid-

which volumes of information as well

an ever-nosy KGB.

eos” is infinitely more dangerous than

as goods were exchanged.

Yet the collapse of the Soviet

But the demise of some of the

In the mainstream media, com-

the one that came before it. To others

Union coincided with the dawn of the

it is a new era of hope for humankind,

greatest trade routes the world has

information age. New technological

offering the potential to build bridges

ever seen transformed Transoxania

tools emerged for getting word out of

between culturally distant and even

from a hub into a hinterland. As the

the furthest-flung corners of the earth,

mutually hostile communities. Amid

Russian and British empires rubbed

spreading it across continents in the

all the word-mincing a field of aca-

up against each other during the

space of seconds. In the era of the

demia has grown up, trying to make

so-called Great Game of the 19th

iPhone we are told almost anyone

sense of trends which at times seem

Citizens around the world are contributing to history like never before. AUCA Magazine would also like to encourage its readers to contribute. We encourage all who have a history with the university to send your stories of AUCA to magazine@mail.auca.kg. We will use the stories as part of our oral history of the university, and add them to the collection of stories that we will feature in our AUCA Virtual Museum Project. You can learn more about this at www.auca.kg/en/20.

AUCA Magazine*December2012

so kaleidoscopic and contradictory that

ing to political figures, international

be double-checked and sifted in order

they almost defy analysis.

organizations and independent experts,

to build up an accurate picture of what

but the ones belonging to ordinary (and

was happening.

media - bloggers, collators, artists, and

often partisan) citizen-internet users

video-makers - the point is less to try

of various countries, people GV refers

also fulfilling the function of security

and explain what is happening and

to as netizens. These opinions, often

briefs: advising the city’s residents on

more to harness its power. This might

represented in the form of blog extracts,

where clashes between looters and vol-

be done with seemingly malicious

tweets or comments under online arti-

unteer armies were taking place, and

intent, by uploading a provocative clip

cles, are then translated as quotes for

which streets angry mobs were heading

such as the now infamous “Innocence

stories written in English before the sto-

down. On our way home on the night

of Muslims” onto a video-sharing

ries themselves are converted into other

of April 8, a sub-division of an angry

platform like YouTube. It can also be

foreign tongues by a team of translators

mob pelted rocks at our car and we

used positively such as a Facebook

working in more than 30 separate

had to swerve down a side street to

campaign promoting peace between

languages. “The World is Talking, Are

avoid an all-out assault. The next day

citizens of two countries seemingly

You Listening?” is the question written

Kloop’s team went back to the office to

destined for war (Iran and Israel).

under the Global Voices logo on its

continuing reporting and translating.

t-shirts, cups, and saris – a question

The World is Talking, Are You Listening? Citizen media has no home, but

the network has earned its right to ask.

Revolutions and looting, however, are only the starting point of a story. The big debates begin afterwards

Asia

Citizen Media in Central

– both in households and on blogging platforms and social networks such as Twitter and Facebook. By this point,

if it has a haven, it is probably the news and advocacy website Global

By nightfall, their reports were

My own introduction to the Glob-

sadly, many of the major international news agencies have already lost inter-

Voices. Perhaps more so than any

al Voices community was accidental,

other online organization, Global Voices

coming via my work as a Russian-En-

and its community of over 500 volun-

glish translator at Kloop.kg, an online

teer authors, translators and part-time

youth media portal managed by my

editors are striving to make discussions

friend, Bektour Iskender. On April 7,

take place in communities across all of

2010, as an still and overcast day

gather the opinions of Kyrgyzstani

the Earth’s 24 time zones accessible to

turned into one of the most dramatic

internet users on the major questions

a wider audience.

and tragic in Kyrgyzstan’s history,

being asked in the months following

Kloop.kg’s team of young journalists

the turnover of power. How should

braved both the physical danger of the

authorities deal with land-grabs outside

streets and the information barricades

the capital? Would there be another

put up by the Bakiyev administration

coup on May 17, or was it just gossip?

to deliver some of the most objective

Should the word ‘secular’ be removed

accounts of events occurring in Bishkek

from the constitution? How popular

at the time.

was the idea of parliamentary gover-

In contrast to the mainstream media, Global Voices’ focus is less on events occurring in the countries of the western world and more on societies covered irregularly by the likes of CNN and the BBC. In the last few months the website’s coverage of the US presidential elections was conspicuous in its

With most other news websites

est. If it isn’t exploding, it isn’t news, or so the logic runs. My friend Bektour suggested I

nance, really? Two years later I still found my-

absence. The London Olympics, mean-

shut down, the security structures

while, were reported thoroughly by the

in chaos and the cabinet decamping

self writing posts for the website. These

site, but mostly from the perspective of

for foreign lands, Kloop journalists

were typically about local reactions

countries winning medals for the first

had to use every resource available

to political scandals, such as when

time or athletes that had been forced to

to pull together reliable information

a prominent oppositionist caused a

overcome a series of social, economic

for news reports. Sometimes their

stir by accusing the Prime Minister of

and cultural hurdles just to compete.

lines of information came via internet

being a “half- blooded” Kyrgyz, but also

forums, where the city’s residents were

about the insane press conferences of

reporting on events happening outside

men who had captured the attention of

their bedroom windows, or via SMS

Russian-speaking internet users across

messages. These claims then had to

the former Soviet space by announcing

Moreover, the “voices” Global Voices authors tend to pick out from the humdrum are not those belong-

AUCA Magazine*December 2012

www.auca.kg

But for practitioners of citizen

the end of winter as we knew it, and

sive. When a protracted conflict took

complex bio-robot”. But while I enjoyed

place this July in Tajikistan’s Gor-

these occasional assignments, I began

no-Badakshan region, AUCA students

to feel something was missing. Firstly,

were the first to document the reactions

I knew only one of the three languages

of social media users to the information

most commonly spoken in Kyrgyzstan,

blackout in the region. When the world

and was thus unconsciously ignoring

forgot to report on the anniversary of

large parts of the conversation. Second-

Turkmenistan’s Abadan explosion, in

ly, these stories simply weren’t mine

which unknown numbers of citizens

to tell. Like the Russian and British

died, AUCA students remembered.

explorers of old, I was putting my own

When Saikal Nogoibaeva, a student in

spin onto local narratives.

the ICP department, covered a debate

AUCA and Global Voices

Join in the Debate Hopefully, the connection between AUCA and Global Voices Central Asia subdivision is one that can keep growing, extending out of the ICP department, where most of the current group of interns are currently studying and going “cross-disciplinary” in its search for yet more conversations taking place in Central Asian cyber space. For students, particularly of the

about banning short skirts and track-

journalism faculty, but of all other

suits in the Kyrgyz parliament, it was

faculties as well, the benefits of being

highlighted and praised by a journalist

a Global Voices author are numerous.

on the Radio Free Europe website,

Firstly there is the opportunity to see

even as the conservative legislator that

your work edited, published, translated

jor interests in my life – the American

raised the question in the first place

into different languages and read by

University of Central Asia and Global

posted a comment objecting to the

thousands of people. Secondly there

Voices – came to me while I was writ-

article!

is the opportunity to improve your

The idea to unite two of the ma-

ing a story about Tajikistan’s enormous flagpole one day, and I had to ask a student for help translating a comment from Farsi into English. In addition to being an academic

The project’s reporting of events in Kazakhstan has been particularly diverse, with correspondent Altynai Sydykova looking at bizarre sheep-shaped pedestrian safety adverts, the contro-

community, AUCA is by default a com-

versy about Kazakhstan’s non-Kazakh-

munity of linguists. Nearly all students

stan-born weightlifting champions, the

at the university know two languages

highly politicized trials concerning the

and some of the super-polyglots know

violent chaos in the country’s oil-rich

five or more. Moreover, the AUCA

western region, and Son Pascal, the

student body is internet-savvy and

Italian singer-song-writer, who is mak-

interested in the world around them.

ing music that encourages Kazakhs to

Who better suited then to the challenge

speak in their mother tongue.

of boosting the quality and quantity of content coming out of the Central Asian region, one of the least well covered in the Global Voices pantheon? Within the framework of a citizen

In Afghanistan, the US presence and the ongoing conflict were the themes most important to local internet users as Vulanga Akhmedova considered popular debates about reforming

media internship project, beginning in

Kabul’s political system and public

the summer of 2012, AUCA students

apathy towards the countless interna-

have been reporting and reflecting on

tional security conferences held in the

some of the most important conversa-

Afghan capital, none of which ever

tions taking place in the former-Soviet

seem to bring about a better security

countries of Central Asia and Afghani-

environment for ordinary Afghans. So

stan. Together, a group of seven citizen

far, the only country we haven’t been

journalists from the ICP department

able to extract any stories out of at all

has produced over twenty reports for

is Uzbekistan: Tell Islom Karimov we

Global Voices, on social, political and

are working on it!

cultural themes.

The results have been impres-

the idea that Vladimir Putin was “a

AUCA Magazine*December2012

writing and learn more about the role citizen media is playing in amplifying discussions happening in societies across the world. Finally, for regular contributors, there is the chance to attend fully-covered five-day bi-annual summits that decide the future of the organization, host discussion panels on citizen media themes and feature guest speakers from mega-tech companies such as Google and Twitter. The last one, held in July of this year, was in Nairobi, Kenya. The only criteria for students to take part in the project are that they are able to write in English, and read in at least one other Central Asian language. Ideally they should be familiar with the way online discussions reflect and represent conversations taking place in any of the region’s diverse societies. The countries covered by the Central Asia GV section are Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan. Inter-

ested students should contact project coordinator Chris Rickleton (chris. rickleton@googlemail.com) or regional editor Alexander Sodiqov (asadikov@ gmail.com).

Becoming the Media:

by Chris Rickleton

About Global Voices

At a time when international

translators, who have formed the Lingua project. Additionally, Global

English-language media ignores many

lators around the world who work

Voices has an Advocacy website and

things that are important to large

together to bring you reports from

network to help people speak out

numbers of the world’s citizens, Global

blogs and citizen media everywhere,

online in places where their voices are

Voices aims to redress some of the

with emphasis on voices that are not

censored. We also have an outreach

inequities in media attention by lever-

ordinarily heard in international main-

project called Rising Voices to help

aging the power of citizens’ media. We

stream media.

marginalized communities use citizen

believe in free speech, and in bridging

media to be heard, with an emphasis

the gulfs that divide people.

Millions of people are blogging, podcasting, and uploading photos,

on the developing world.

videos, and information across the globe, but unless you know where to look, it can be difficult to find respected and credible voices. Our international team of volunteer authors and part-time editors are active participants in the blogospheres they write about on Global Voices. Global Voices is incorporated in

Our History

tives emerging from citizens’ media around the world by linking to

innon and technologist and Africa

text, photos, podcasts, video and

expert, Ethan Zuckerman while they

other forms of grassroots citizens’

were both fellows at the Berkman

media.

Center for Internet and Society at project grew out of an international

do not have an office, but work as a

bloggers’ meeting held at Harvard in

virtual community across multiple time

December 2004 and it began as a

zones, meeting in person only when

simple blog. (Here's a written report

the opportunity arises (usually during

and podcast of that meeting). Global Voices quickly expanded thanks to patronage of the Berkman Center, support from Reuters, the MacArthur Foundation, and the energy

Our Projects

and creativity of our contributors.

Global Voices is translated into more than 30 languages by volunteer

ing conversations and perspec-

Tokyo Bureau Chief, Rebecca MacK-

Voices, a nonprofit foundation. We

and donations to cover our costs.

Call attention to the most interest-

2005 by former CNN Beijing and

Harvard University. The idea for the

sponsorships, editorial commissions,

•

Global Voices was founded in

the Netherlands as Stichting Global

our Summits). We rely on grants,

Global Vision Goals

•

Facilitate the emergence of new citizens’ voices through training, online tutorials, and publicizing the ways in which open-source and free tools can be used safely by people around the world to

www.auca.kg

Global Voices is a community of more than 500 bloggers and trans-

express themselves. •

Advocate for freedom of expression around the world and protect the rights of citizen journalists to report on events and opinions without fear of censorship or persecution

Our Primary Goals

Source: globalvoicesonline.org

AUCA Magazine*December 2012

Altynai Sydykova’s GV experience

Reporting on Kazakhstan for

friends when they referred to the

Global Voices turned out to be a great

Kaznet and local sites such as yvision,

experience! I have learned a lot about

the local legend that is Son Pascal,

vantages, I now feel that I became

Kazakhstan’s internet culture, im-

and regional jokes about Pavlodar or

somewhat a victim of social media as

proved my writing skills and become

Shymkent that would otherwise have

well. While searching for the opinions

an active ‘netizen’ with accounts on all

been lost on me. I was surprised by

of kaznetizens on political events and

popular social networks.

the ability to get closer to a foreign

social trends, I found myself opening

culture (albeit one quite close to

up accounts on twitter and VKontakte;

home) through the Internet.

exploring ‘trending’ Kazakh blogs and

What I liked most about GV is that it does not merely translate local news, but it also demonstrates opin-

I also feel that I have improved

Despite all of the great ad-

searching for Kazakh news. It turned

ions and judgments of cyber citizens

my writing skills. Since posts go

out to be an interesting and even ad-

towards what is happening. Since my

through strict editing, I now have a

dictive hobby – I soon started to know

blog was dedicated to Kazakhstan,

better idea about what a well-written

more about current events in Kazakh-

I learned a lot about the views and

blog or news post should look like.

stan than in the Kyrgyz Republic. So

values of our neighbours and their

Currently I am a proud owner of a

even though reporting on the views

everyday life.

Word Press account, who knows how

of ‘netizens’ can be fascinating, being

to embed HTTP links and other techie

too much of a netizen yourself can

stuff.

be a time consuming distraction from

Having written several posts about Kazakhstan, it was particularly interesting to visit Almaty having writ-

on your report from a Spanish citizen.

Moreover it feels great to have

ten several posts about the country.

your post translated into more than 7

I was able to understand my Kazakh

languages and receive some feedback

AUCA Magazine*December2012

reality!

New Media in Kyrgyzstan by Nick Robbins

The quick dissemination of information to, from and between online communities or individuals is a powerful function of the Internet. Still in its infancy, the Internet in Kyrgyzstan played its first role—albeit a highly weak one—in supporting anti-government protests which overthrew President Akayev and his government during the “Tulip Revolution” in 2005. In an all-toocommon attempt to suppress anti-government sentiment or downright dissidence, President Akayev’s government

began blocking access to both domestic and foreign media outlets, such as radio and T.V., which the regime viewed as a threat to itself. In response the opposition turned to other forms of social media, such as Livejournal.com, to provide vital and up-to-date information about the chaotic events. In April of 2005 protesters in Bishkek successfully stormed the White House and President Akayev fled. A study conducted by Melvin and Umaraliev for the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) dubbed this period as the “first political success story of new media in Kyrgyzstan”. After the fall of Akayev the Internet began to take on a more prominent role in Kyrgyzstan. In order to comply with a requirement of the WTO Kyrgyzstan put 77% of the state-owned KyrgyzTelecom up for sale in 2006. Since this process of ICT liberalization has begun ICT infrastructure has become increasingly advanced, more available, and less expensive. Although KyrgzTelecom still owns the bulk of the market with its holdings at about 60%, private ISPs including Megaline, Elcat, and Saimatelecom now service a major portion of the market. Internet penetration levels in Kyrgyzstan vary. The International Telecommunications Union (ITU) claims 20% of citizens have access to the Internet while a recent IREX report on media sustainability claims it could be closer to 40%, which would make internet penetration in Kyrgyzstan the highest in Central Asia. Bishkek, the country’s capital, has the chief concentration of internet access

AUCA Magazine*December 2012

www.auca.kg

The digital landscape of the West is spreading into Kyrgyzstan. Access to information communication technologies (ICTs) has been steadily on the rise. The Internet is arguably the most significant development in ICTs by providing a framework for a new mass media that is shared by citizen authors and readers. Social media (Twitter, for example), blogs, forums and citizen media—independent journalism websites like kloop.kg or neweruasia.net which are comprised of various independent blogs and abide by higher standards of professionalism—are carving out a new frontier in mass communication. These internet media are sometimes collectively referred to as “new media”. Combine this new media with a high level of internet freedom in Kyrgyzstan and the result is a powerful tool that has the possibility to channel citizen opinion, offer an alternative to traditional print, T.V. and radio outlets, and craft new methods by which the citizen or collective interacts with the political and social environment.

(private and public) and the majority of internet users in the country. Around 80% of all users are under the age of 35. The emergence of ICTs has been met with the need for foreign aid and the ability to draft proper ICT legislation, a task often carried our by NGOs. Thus NGOs and international donors— such as the Open Society Institute or Transitions Online—are especially important in the maintenance and enhancement of telecommunications in Central Asia’s republics. But monetary and legislative assistance comes at a high price: in order to receive international aid some historically authoritarian “top-down” governments—like Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan—must permit a more

AUCA Magazine*December2012

open regulatory environment that is “clearly articulated, and permissive of electronic media” within the aid-receiving country, write two researchers, McGlinchey and Johnson, in their study “Aiding the Internet In Central Asia”. Kyrgyzstan has made significant advancements by way of this aid-for-deregulation path. Freedom House’s latest report marks Kyrgyzstan’s Internet as “partly free”. Kazakhstan scored worse on censorship and Uzbekistan’s Internet was concluded as “not free”. (Turkmenistan, a country not examined by Freedom House, unsurprisingly scored extremely poor by OpenNet Initiative’s internet freedom report. Tajikistan was relatively free according their 2010 data.) While foreign aid encourages

the Kyrgyz government to considerably deregulate the Internet and thus provide additional freedom via a top-down government approach, politically or socially active users can in turn utilize this open online media environment to promote change from the bottom-up. In this way, the government is pressured to satisfy the political and social visions of international donors as well as to acknowledge the multifarious and sometimes dissenting viewpoints of a new generation of online citizen authors. According to a study published by two UCLA researchers in the Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication under the title “Internet Authorship: Social and Political Implications Within Kyrgyzstan”, just

Two individuals connected with the neweurasia.net project recently authored a piece which details the history of the website in the article “From Blogging Central Asia to Citizen Media: A Practitioner’s Perspective on the Evolution of the neweurasia Blog Project.” Founded in 2005, its creators were able to successfully find local bloggers in each of the five CIS countries—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan—whose blogs were then compiled and displayed on a single web page for visitors to browse, read and share with convenience. By building partnerships with foreign entities, such as the non-profit Czech media organization “Transitions Online” (TOL), and through the process of “bridge blogging”—that is, the process of connecting blogs that will reference one another and reach across cultural, linguistic and national borders—neweurasia began to spread its appeal and enrich its content. Bridge bloggers, each hailing from the five republics (with the exception of Turkmenistan), would write weekly posts in their native language. Translators were hired to translate between Russian and English. One of the principal goals of donors like TOL was to promote greater media freedom and democratization, and, as is true of Central Asian governments vis-à-vis their international donors, funding was contingent upon the attempt to realize this goal. In one case, neweurasia.net actualized their donor’s wishes by zeroing in on

and supporting groups which lacked representation in the mainstream press of the CIS countries and endorsing their social participation in citizen media. The strategy of using donor aid to actively promote “bridge blogging” and underrepresented groups ultimately paid off. By April of 2007 neweurasia.net had up to 118,000 unique visitors and 100 posts per month, up from a mere 500 posts in the first seven months. At the same time the site’s visitor demographics shifted from being predominately Western to those from Central Asia, with the highest number of visitors coming from Bishkek and Almaty. Taking advantage of its increasing popularity, neweurasia.net accepted donor aid with the proposal of “Strengthening and Expanding Citizen Journalism in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan”. The primary goal was to adopt Western standards of ethical and professional journalism and to promote new media as a tool for advocacy for local NGOs. By 2009 neweruasia.net had become the principle web source of citizen authorship in Central Asia. Today, one can find resources for up-and-coming bloggers on the site, such as “An Easy Guide to Blogging” or the document “Safe Blogging & Online Privacy Made Easy”. One can even read “The Election Blogging Guide”, which instructs individuals on the process of effectively blogging about political elections, including tips on how to do it under the watchful eye of a repressive government. But neweruasian.net isn’t the only such website in Kyrgyzstan. Kloop.kg was founded in 2007 and has since become a popular online news source. On their webpage, kloop.kg reveals that “You also may become a correspondent of kloop. kg, regardless of experience and education”, and as a blogger you may “express your own opinions and write in whichever style you prefer”. In this way, kloop.kg provides regu-

lar citizens with a forum for political and social expression. IREX’s recent 2012 “Media Sustainability Index” noted that kloop.kg and other blogs are ‘providing the foundations for investigative journalism’, exposing internet readers not just to political and criminal issues as the main stream media does, but to analysis of social problems like human migration or the shooting of stray dogs in Kyrgyzstan. In 2010, five years after new media saw its first use as a political tool in the “Tulip Revolution”, the significance of new media was revealed once more when Kyrgyzstan was mired in political conflict between the months of March and June. In March various online communities began reporting on allegations of widespread corruption in then President Bakiyev’s government. Kyrgyzstan’s most well-known digital discussion board, Diesel.kg, was a primary source of dissenting opinion and damaging rumors about government corruption. Having discovered this, the government pressured the owners of Diesel.kg to clear their website of all posts that were critical of the regime, to which the administrators of the forums caved. Regardless, many users still found ways to write posts. Some members were reporting on demonstrations in the northwestern town of Talas, while others were posting under such threads as “Opposition, News, and Events” which centered on the events leading up to, during and after the revolution of April 7 with a combination of personal opinion, observation, foreign news service reports and YouTube videos. Citizen reportage also shifted to new venues, such as Twitter—which expanded its primary role from facilitating private conversation to spreading news about government corruption, abuse and growing political unrest (such as large protests in Naryn). In spite of its further attempts to stifle political and social unrest by censoring traditional Kyrgyz media and blocking access to certain Russian T.V. stations, Bakiyev’s regime was unable to stop the elusive flow of in-

AUCA Magazine*December 2012

www.auca.kg

like traditional journalism is vital for sustaining democracies, online citizen authorship is “open to participation…constantly in process [and] the property of all the participants” and likewise can “invigorate democratic activity”. One such noteworthy citizen journalism website—neweurasia. net—promotes free political expression and is participant owned insofar as its sustenance relies on citizen authorship from grass-roots bloggers in CIS countries like Kyrgyzstan, and it further represents the possibility for political and social community building in Central Asia.

formation running through new media outlets. On April 7 an estimated 10,000 protesters gathered around Bishkek and successfully stormed the White House, forcing President Bakiyev to flee the country. What role did new media play in actually igniting the protests? In order to better understand where new media fit into the demonstrations that day, I sat down with Nora Williams, a visiting Fulbright Scholar and Indiana University graduate student at AUCA who is currently finalizing her thesis on social media and political mobilization during the 2010 Bishkek protests. She does not believe that social media (a branch of new media) built a civil society or some sort of political coalition which was responsible for the demonstrations. While it is certain that social media played a part in spreading the word about political corruption in the government, facilitating widespread dissent, Nora Williams believes one needs to be

AUCA Magazine*December2012

cautious about overestimating social media’s significance that day. In her estimation sites like Facebook and Twitter were “more impactful in posting what happened afterwards [by] sharing where there were fires, where there was looting…where you should go, what’s happening” and so forth. Based on a year’s worth of research and hundreds of surveys, she concludes, in part, that the massive crowds in Bishkek were formed through “face-to-face” connections with friends and family. Social media, she says, was “basically mobilizing [their] existing network.” Hypothetically, she does not believe that the protesters would have been fewer if not for social media. In this incident, the Internet, in a broad sense, took on a more informative role during and after the chaos of the revolution rather than providing a foundation for political mobilization.

shifted to ethnic chaos in the south, particularly in the provincial capital of Osh, only one month after the President had fled overseas. From June 10th—14th ethnic tension between Uzbeks and Kyrgyz broke out into a four day riot that resulted in 470 deaths and an additional 300,000 internationally displaced, according to the Kyrgyz Inquiry Commission (KIS). Traditional Kyrgyz media lacked adequate coverage of the events and as a consequence the Internet filled the information vacuum for those who had been displaced in the South and for those in Bishkek wanting a clearer picture of what was happening there. Twitter accounts and forum membership increased, particularly from people in the South, who wished to report to the rest of Kyrgyzstan about the events and share their personal opinions on the issue.

New media again took on a largely informative role when the political upheaval in the north

Diesel forum once again became a social platform on which those concerned about the recent

But new media is not limited to times of revolution and governmental collapse. Times of peace, or tentative peace as in Kyrgyzstan, also give new media participants (passive or active) an occasion to share amongst a digital community their socio-political views. According to the same UCLA researchers cited earlier in this piece, this vibrant online community is interwoven with personal experiences shared by individual authors,

who, through expression of these experiences, come to identify, focus and solidify their social and political positions. Through this animated Internet discourse bloggers and citizen journalists naturally begin to shift their socio-political dialogue from the digital world to the physical—cafes and restaurants—uniting people and building stronger communal ties. Nevertheless, it is arguable as to what extent this community can affect political and social change in Kyrgyzstan. In spite of new media’s active role in social and political issues today in Kyrgyzstan, there are still signs that the number of active writers is relatively low. According to the authors of “From Blogging Central Asia to Citizen Media”, in terms of blogging and citizen media, there seems to be little understanding as to its relevance in people’s daily lives, and the authors believe that blogging will “remain and activity limited to certain cultural elites such

as higher education students, civil society activists, and journalists”. Kyrgyzstan has nurtured an ICT environment that is impressively free from government intrusion and more developed in terms of infrastructure than most of its neighbors. As the Internet gathered strength after the “Tulip Revolution” and the proceeding liberalization policies, some citizen authors utilized the Internet as a convenient way to express their opinions or to quickly inform the Internet-connected populace when the traditional Kyrgyz media failed to do so. Bloggers, social media users, forum posters and citizen journalists on sites like kloop.kg and neweruasia.net have been, and still are, building and sustaining an alternative means by which individuals and online communities interact with their political and social environment.

AUCA Magazine*December 2012

www.auca.kg

events in southern Kyrgyzstan could gather, sharing stories, opinions and news with one another. One such thread—“Events in the South and the City of Osh”—included updated news posting gathered from various online news outlets, while another thread on Diesel reached out to its users for donations to help victims in Osh and Jalalabad. On June 20th a series of YouTube videos were uploaded by a Bishkek user under the heading “We want peace in Kyrgyzstan” which depicted youth of various nationalities promoting peace.

Динара

Знание - сила, но лишь при условии, если это

телевидение «КООРТ», генеральный продюсер; Газпром

знание новое. Необходимость адаптироваться к

Нефть Азия, глава пресс службы; Институт Войны и

изменениям, столь стремительно происходящим

Мира (IWPR), эксперт.

сегодня, обязывает нас приобретать все новые знания и навыки. Непрерывное обучение сегодня не только стиль жизни, но и основной фактор профессионального успеха каждого из нас…

талант проводить журналистские расследования и преподносить свою работу обществу в доступной, качественной и оригинальной форме. Его

На эту тему мы и решили побеседовать с Омурбеком Дуйшебековичем.

многочисленные работы всегда имеют актуальность, всегда интересны. Также он любящий муж и отец

Сатаев Омурбек Дуйшебекович – журналист и руководитель ТВ и радио вещаний

Омурбек Дуйшебекович имеет необыкновенный

«Азаттык».

четверых детей. - Американский Университет в Центральной Азии

Самый популярный и выдающийся журналист имеет

существует уже не первый год, и я знаю, что вы когда–

репутацию одного из самых весомых личностей не

то здесь работали. Расскажите, в чем на Ваш взгляд

только в Кыргызстане, но и далеко за его пределами.

заключается особенность данного университета, а так

Талантливый журналист, обладающий деловой хваткой, родился 31-декабря 1964 года. Он сделал

же в чем его отличие. - Отвечая на Ваш вопрос об особенности

успешную карьеру: Государственное Телерадиовещание

данного ВУЗа, могу сказать, что профессиональный

Кыргызской ССР, главный редактор; Международная

и личностный рост студентов - главная забота его

государственная теле-радио корпорация «Мир», главный

руководства. Это есть и основное отличие АУЦА.

редактор; Жогорку Кенеш (Парламент Кыргызской

Когда даются только АКТИВНЫЕ знания, которые

Республики), глава пресс-службы; Internews Network в

будут постоянно востребованы и задействованы в

Кыргызской Республике, исполнительный, директор;

деятельности и карьере.

Кыргызское общественное образовательное радио

Расскажите об основании и открытии университета, а также об идее его создания и сути американской системы образования в Кыргызстане. Общеизвестно, что история АУЦА в Кыргызстане ведётся с 1993года, когда был образован Кыргызско - Американский факультет в Национальном Университете КР. Собственно Американский университет в Бишкеке был создан в 1997, а в 2002 вуз переименован в

AUCA Magazine*December2012

Американский университет Центральной Азии. И за годы своего существования университет, несомненно, достиг огромных успехов в подготовке высококвалифицированных специалистов и непрестанно делает стремительные шаги в развитии и усовершенствовании своих образовательных программ. Что же касается сути системы образования, отмечу, что это международное много дисциплинарное сообщество,

построенное в Американской традиции вольных гуманитарных наук. То есть, студент в праве сам выбирать дисциплины на том или ином факультете? Совершенно верно. Состав учебных программ университета помимо подготовительной включает порядка одиннадцати программ по выпуску бакалавров, а так же программу магистратуры. Таким образом,

Итак, на сегодня АУЦА первый университет в Центральной Азии, который прошел аккредитацию в Соединенных Штатах. Не могли бы Вы рассказать об этом подробнее. Какие преимущества возникают в связи с этим? Действительно, АУЦА — первый в Центральной Азии, предлагающий своим выпускникам дипломы университета, аккредитованного в США посредством партнерской программы с Университетом Бард (Bard College) в США. Сразу замечу, что помимо партнерской программы с Университетом Бард, АУЦА участвует в ряде партнерских программ со многими университетами и организациями по всему миру. А преимущества очевидны: тысячи выпускников продолжают учебу в самых уважаемых учебных заведениях. Например, в каких? В таких учебных заведениях как, Гарвард, Йель, Университет Индианы, Сорбонна, и Центрально европейский Университет (CEU). Кроме этого выпускники имеют возможность и работают в престижных компаниях и организациях по всему миру: BBC, Citibank, Cisco Systems, Deloitte&Touche, Google, IBM, USAID, Всемирный Банк. Я

назвал лишь несколько из числа наиболее известных. Говоря другими словами, Американский университет в Центральной Азии - это международный вуз гуманитарных наук американского типа, предлагающий обучение наивысшего качества? Верно. И по окончании обучения студенты получают два диплома: американского и кыргызского образцов. Что же касается степеней, присуждаемых АУЦА? Они действительны во всем мире, поскольку действующая в университете система кредит часов является международным стандартом. Действуя в регионе, известном своим высоким уровнем коррупции в области высшего образования, хотелось бы услышать Ваше мнение относительно американской системы образования и отбора студентов в АУЦА? АУЦА имеет все основания, гордится своей репутацией честного учебного заведения, во всех отношениях. Как среди студентов, так и среди преподавателей. Я уже говорил, что АУЦА принимает абитуриентов из Центральной Азии более пятнадцати лет, и на протяжении всего этого времени продолжает предоставлять лучшее высшее образование тем учащимся, которые хотят изменить свой мир к лучшему. А материальная поддержка студентам?

Материальная поддержка, насколько я знаю, определяется финансовым положением студента и его успеваемостью, Что-то в районе от 200 до 1700 долларов США. И порядка семидесяти процентов наших студентов ею пользуются. Кроме того, студентам оказывается помощь в поиске жилья. А что касается преподавательского состава? Университет привлекает только самых лучших профессоров со всего мира, которые по-настоящему любят Расскажите об основании и открытии университета, а также об идее его создания и сути американской системы образования в Кыргызстане. Общеизвестно, что история АУЦА в Кыргызстане ведётся с 1993года, когда был образован Кыргызско - Американский факультет в Национальном Университете КР. Собственно Американский университет в Бишкеке был создан в 1997, а в 2002 вуз переименован в Американский университет Центральной Азии. И за годы своего существования университет, несомненно, достиг огромных успехов в подготовке высококвалифицированных специалистов и непрестанно делает стремительные шаги в развитии и усовершенствовании своих образовательных программ. Что же касается сути системы образования, отмечу, что это международное много дисциплинарное сообщество, построенное в Американской традиции вольных

www.auca.kg

добиваясь высочайшего уровня подготовки специалистов, АУЦА придерживается принципов свободы самовыражения, критического подхода к исследованиям, и академической честности.

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AUCA Magazine*December 2012

гуманитарных наук. То есть, студент в праве сам выбирать дисциплины на том или ином факультете? Совершенно верно. Состав учебных программ университета помимо подготовительной включает порядка одиннадцати программ по выпуску бакалавров, а так же программу магистратуры. Таким образом, добиваясь высочайшего уровня подготовки специалистов, АУЦА придерживается принципов свободы самовыражения, критического подхода к исследованиям, и академической честности. Итак, на сегодня АУЦА первый университет в Центральной Азии, который прошел аккредитацию в Соединенных Штатах. Не могли бы Вы рассказать об этом подробнее. Какие преимущества возникают в связи с этим? Действительно, АУЦА — первый в Центральной Азии, предлагающий своим выпускникам дипломы университета, аккредитованного в США посредством партнерской программы с Университетом Бард (Bard College) в США. Сразу замечу, что помимо партнерской

AUCA Magazine*December2012

программы с Университетом Бард, АУЦА участвует в ряде партнерских программ со многими университетами и организациями по всему миру. А преимущества очевидны: тысячи выпускников продолжают учебу в самых уважаемых учебных заведениях. Например, в каких? В таких учебных заведениях как, Гарвард, Йель, Университет Индианы, Сорбонна, и Центрально - европейский Университет (CEU). Кроме этого выпускники имеют возможность и работают в престижных компаниях и организациях по всему миру: BBC, Citibank, Cisco Systems, Deloitte&Touche, Google, IBM, USAID, Всемирный Банк. Я назвал лишь несколько из числа наиболее известных. Говоря другими словами, Американский университет в Центральной Азии - это международный вуз гуманитарных наук американского типа, предлагающий обучение наивысшего качества? Верно. И по окончании обучения студенты получают два диплома: американского и кыргызского образцов.

Что же касается степеней, присуждаемых АУЦА? Они действительны во всем мире, поскольку действующая в университете система кредит часов является международным стандартом. Действуя в регионе, известном своим высоким уровнем коррупции в области высшего образования, хотелось бы услышать Ваше мнение относительно американской системы образования и отбора студентов в АУЦА? АУЦА имеет все основания, гордится своей репутацией честного учебного заведения, во всех отношениях. Как среди студентов, так и среди преподавателей. Я уже говорил, что АУЦА принимает абитуриентов из Центральной Азии более пятнадцати лет, и на протяжении всего этого времени продолжает предоставлять лучшее высшее образование тем учащимся, которые хотят изменить свой мир к лучшему. А материальная поддержка студентам? Материальная поддержка, насколько я знаю, определяется финансовым положением студента и его успеваемостью,

А что касается преподавательского состава? Университет привлекает только самых лучших профессоров со всего мира, которые по-настоящему любят работать со студентами. В АУЦА соотношение “преподаватели: студенты” составляет “1:5”, что позволяет уделять особое внимание каждому студенту. Давайте вернемся к системе образования в АУЦА? Суть вопроса заключается в самом названии ВУЗа – АМЕРИКАНСКИЙ университет в ЦЕНТРАЛЬНОЙ АЗИИ. Здесь, на мой взгляд, все просто, АУЦА, как американский университет, который привержен критическому мышлению, энциклопедичности знаний и индивидуальному подходу в обучении. Но, как ВУЗ, расположенный в Центрально Азии, в АУЦА глубоко понимают и признают необыкновенное культурное многообразие, в котором учатся студенты. И, на мой взгляд, это особенно важно, хотя бы потому, что благодаря этому, многие из выпускников смогут посвятить свою жизнь осуществлению столь необходимых сегодня, для всех Кыргызстанцев, социальных изменений. АУЦА не собирается останавливаться на достигнутом. И уверенно смотрит в будущее в поисках дальнейших нововведений, возможностей сотрудничества и дальнейшего роста. Каким Вы видите ближайшее будущее АУЦА? Я человек осведомленный – профессия обязывает. И я знаю, в АУЦА разрабатываются новые программы, ориентированные на нужды сообщества, которому

он служит. Взять, к примеру, курсы в рамках Центра дополнительного образования: гражданское воспитание, переподготовка военных, а так же, планы, связанные с открытием студенческого городка в городе Оше. Я так же наслышан, что довольно скоро, например студенты начнут учиться в новом, современном студенческом городке. И, что АУЦА также приобретает общежитие с целью привлечения новых иностранных студентов, особенно из Европы и США. Ну, раз уж мы затронули эту тему, то попутно, хотелось бы узнать, чем же еще, помимо учебы, заняты студенты в АУЦА? О жизни студентов в университете? да (смеется) Ну, она разнообразна и никогда не бывает скучной. В течение учебного года Офис по студенческим делам организует различные шоу и концерты. Студенты АУЦА закрепили за собой имидж исполнителей и постановщиков интересных развлекательных программ и мероприятий, таких как Ориентационная неделя, Посвящение в студенты, Выпускной бал, День Благодарения, Рождество, Хеллоин, День влюбленных и многих других. Я знаю, что в АУЦА существует Студенческое Правительство – некая уникальная форма самоуправления. Что она дает студентам? Студенческое правительство позволяет студентам активно участвовать в принятии важных для Университета решений. Кроме того, студенты участвуют в различных спортивных мероприятиях и работе нескольких десятков клубов и организаций, которые, в свою очередь позволяют им интересно проводить

досуг и развивать навыки лидерства и презентации. И чтобы максимально облегчить жизнь своих студентов, АУЦА оказывает им дополнительные услуги. Ну, к примеру, университетский автобус, компьютерные лаборатории, и библиотека. Вплоть до кафетерия с горячим питанием. В завершении нашей беседы, хотелось бы услышать наиболее полный список компаний, предоставляющих работу выпускникам АУЦА? Работодатели охотно принимают на работу не только выпускников, но и студентов АУЦА, потому что они отвечают их высоким требованиям. И в этом отношении АУЦА может гордиться процентом занятости своих выпускников. Они, как правило работают в ведущих компаниях Соединенных Штатов, Европы, России, СНГ и Кыргызстана. Таких как: Немецкий Банк, Лондон; Итальянский Медицинский Центр, Москва; ПРООН, ЮСАИД, ОБСЕ, Всемирный Банк, Азиатский Банк Развития, Национальный Банк КР, Банк Демир, Министерство иностранных дел КР, Министерство финансов. Министерство образования и культуры. Кыргыз Алтын, Кумтор Оперейтинг Компани, Проктр и Гэмбл, Реемтсма, АКСЕЛС, Хельветас, Корпорации Карана и Прагма, Бител, Ареопаг, Госэнергосбыт, Центрально-Азиатская Группа, Турецкие Авиалинии, ТРК КООРТ, “Times of Central Asia”, “РИФ-обозрение”, “Вечерний Бишкек”, агентство Интерньюс.

www.auca.kg

Что-то в районе от 200 до 1700 долларов США. И порядка семидесяти процентов наших студентов ею пользуются. Кроме того, студентам оказывается помощь в поиске жилья.

AUCA Magazine*December 2012

I am glad to know that I can be a journalist here at home

Dina Karabekova studied Jour-

a thirst for uncovering the truth, but

nalism and Mass Communication,

by laziness and circumstance. When

and graduated from AUCA in 2012.

I was in school I actually wanted to be

Earlier this year she began to work at

a therapist. In the 10th grade some-

the lifestyle magazine for men, #ONE

thing in my head told me that I should

MAGAZINE, where she is now a copy

go and do an internship at a television

editor. Dina decided to share with us

station, which was my first taste. Then

her opinion about profession of journal-

I really just decided that medical school

ism, local media, and its future.

was going to be too difficult, and that

-Why did you choose journalism? I was not led to journalism, like many of my colleagues, by curiosity and

writing was more fun and interesting. That decision allowed me to choose AUCA, which was really the university

of my dreams.

magazines that you see around the

the time. I wish I had the luxury to

world such as Vogue, or more closely

take some time to be inspired. That

ning that you wanted to work at a

GQ, since the magazine is directed

would be nice.

newspaper or magazine?

towards men. Since #ONE MAGA-

-Did you know from the begin-

Not right away, no. Even while I was at AUCA in the journalism department I did not really know what I wanted to do with my education, or even where I wanted to do it. When I was a junior I even started to have doubts that I had chosen the right major for me. I thought that the only way out would be to go abroad and get a masters degree, that it would be a sort of escape. But in the end, everything worked out quite differently, and I am now sincerely happy to be working in Bishkek on One Magazine. I have not completely given up the idea of studying abroad

seen two or three competitors pop up here in Bishkek. This is pretty astounding considering that this market did not even exist two years ago. And I think there is also a big future for more here, since all of us combined do not yet cover even a third of the Bishkek market. We are a growing magazine though, and I think it is exciting that people are starting to read what we are putting out there. -Are social networks important for your magazine? Why? We view social networks as an

-What would you say to AUCA journalism students? Journalism is fun. You do not have to be a mathematician or follow a complex set of rules. You just need to be able to do the most banal things, perhaps the human things. You need to listen, write, read, and try to get a response from your audience. The most complicated task is to ask the right questions, which you have to learn from experience. Journalism students - Write! Start a blog or get a column in a paper somewhere. Writing ability is not granted with your diploma, it is a skill that needs to be worked and

somewhere, but for the meantime

advertising medium, as a way to get

honed over time. Learn as many

I am glad to know that I can be a

readers interested in the print ver-

languages as you can. The limit of

journalist here at home.

sion of our magazine. Many of these

your language is the limit of your

networks are still new to Bishkek,

world, and by learning other lan-

so it is not clear yet which forum

guages you open up to yourself the

people will eventually settle on, but

power of the word. Also try to take

it is clear that more and more are

courses in as many disciplines as

signing up every day to get on these

you can, because you never know

networks. It will be interesting to

when you will have to write about it.

-What is it like working at a magazine? Working there is very interesting. #ONE MAGAZINE is in many ways a new product on the Kyrgyz market, which makes it a sort of journalism experiment. I am not exactly applying what I learned at AUCA in my new job. We do write a little bit about democracy, but anything that is politically charged you

see which ones become dominant, and how that effects advertising and how magazines like ours relate to their readers. -How do you find your inspi-

can forget about. What I do apply

ration? For example, how do you

from my education is the flexibility

decide who and what to write about?

to do a lot of different tasks. Every-

I used to think that inspira-

-What is your opinion about the future of Kyrgyz media? Our media is dependent on the political parties running the country. Although the media here is much more free than in our neighboring countries, it is a little like being the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tallest dwarf. I am not sure

one at work is united in trying to put

tion, for me, came from my sense of

that our politicians really understand

out the most creative and unique

romance, love, music, and possibly

what it means to have a free press

product possible, which means that

coffee. I am not sure what role

and how that works in a democra-

we are all involved in almost every

inspiration really plays in what I am

cy. But I also think that as more

aspect including text and editing,

doing now. When you have creative

newspapers and magazines come on

photo shoots, and marketing. It has

people, but then you sit them in an

to the market they will stop covering

really been a valuable experience.

office with office furniture and tell

new hairstyles and VIP parties and

them that they have to produce an

turn their attention to the things that

article every month, I do not know if

really matter.

-What is the role of your magazine? I already mentioned a little about the magazine being completely new to the Kyrgyz market. It is done in the tradition of the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Glossyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

ZINE has come out we have already

AUCA Magazine*December2012

inspiration is playing a role or not. Getting money to feed yourself, that becomes the inspiration, to have the brains and stamina to produce all

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(996 312) 66 11 14 www.business.auca.kg mba@mail.auca.kg Student admissions office (996 312) 66 10 89 AUCA Magazine*December 2012

Салима Бекболотова:

Знания в области финансов необходимы всем руководителям Аббревиатура MBA становится все более популярной в Кыргызстане. Однако одни люди плохо понимают, что скрываются за этими тремя буквами. Другие же уверены, что MBA – это золотой ключик, открывающий заветную дверцу к карьерному росту и престижной профессии. Но дает ли степень МВА преимущества при устройстве на работу? И возможно ли в Кыргызстане приобрести качественные знания в этой области? «ВБ» решил разобраться в этой проблеме. Помочь нам согласилась руководитель программы MBA АУЦА Салима Бекболотова. - Салима, расскажите, пожалуйста, какие знания можно приобрести, поступив на курс делового администрирования? Для чего нужна степень? - Если переводить дословно, то Master of Business Administration (MBA) – это магистратура со специализацией в области управления бизнесом, степень мастера делового администрирования. Однако бренд «MBA» уже давно вырос из своего магистерского прошлого. Сейчас MBA – это высшее дополнительное образование, носящее прикладной характер. Для подобных программ важно, чтобы знания носили не только теоретический характер, но и приобретались практические навыки. В результате человек учится разбираться в современном

динамично развивающемся мире. Эти знания нужны тем, кто планирует создать свой бизнес или продвигаться по карьерной лестнице. Кроме того, чтобы быть успешным лидером, необходимы знания в области финансов и управления. Поэтому большинство поступающих на программу - это бакалавры или уже работающие люди, получившие неэкономическое образование. Если открыть в газете «Вечерний Бишкек» рубрику “объявления”, то можно увидеть в списке требований к кандидату на тот или иной пост в тех же международных донорских организациях степень магистра и МВА. Кстати, и президент «Кока-Колы» говорил, что если вы хотите добиться успеха и иметь свое дело, то нужно разбираться в финансах. - Качество образования в Кыргызстане вызывает у экспертов большие сомнения. Не лучше ли получить степень за границей? - Получить образование за рубежом – это, конечно, здорово, однако средняя стоимость там варьируется от $50 до 70 тыс. за год. Это не по карману среднестатистическому кыргызстанцу. Студенты АУЦА, например, могут получить знания уровня Пенсильванского университета (University of Pennsylvania) за гораздо меньшую цену.

Кроме того, при получении степени МВА важно иметь возможность общаться с представителями местных бизнесструктур, чтобы они не только делились опытом, но и показали студентам реальное положение дел в бизнес-сфере. У каждой страны есть свои особенности в области ведения бизнеса. К тому же это возможность завязать какие-то контакты. - Нужно ли адаптировать западные стандарты МВА в плане методики, учебные планы и куррикулум, учитывая особенности страны? - Можно найти баланс. Западные стандарты отличаются тем, что материал студентам дается последовательно и в логичном изложении. Однако практические ситуации лучше

По данным журнала The Economist, в Европе и США наблюдается спад интереса к дипломам MBA. В то же время эксперты отмечают рост интереса к MBA в Азии. Средний возраст слушателей MBA составляет 27-30 лет. Средний рост планки доходов после получения диплома – от 40 до 110% (в зависимости от региона и бизнес-школы). Среди основных мотивов получения степени MBA сегодня преобладают следующие: развитие карьеры (35%), образовательный опыт и личностное развитие (35%), рост заработной платы (20%), расширение коммуникативного потенциала (10%).

AUCA Magazine*December2012

- Вы упомянули, что полученные в рамках программы знания используются на практике в местных компаниях. Каким образом? - Уделяя должное внимание магистерским диссертациям. Ведь чтобы защитить диссертацию, необходимо доказать актуальность и применимость в реальной ситуации. Соответственно, каждый студент, который изучает магистерскую программу, берет отдельное предприятие или отрасль и исследует определенную сферу. Это большое дело, которое необходимо развивать, дабы исследования были востребованы местным бизнес-сообществом. Соответственно, нужна обратная связь - партнеры, которые дают свои направления исследования. Лично моя студентка исследовала

Директор программы MBA одной из самых престижных бизнесшкол Великобритании профессор Амир Шариф выделил основные факторы, которые должны знать те, кто желает получить степень MBA. 1.

Расположение. Где именно вы будете проходить обучение? Будете ли ездить ежедневно на занятия? Стоимость. Сильно ли процесс обучения скажется на вашем бюджете? Как вы намерены оплачивать обучение - самостоятельно или посредством семьи? Сколько стоит обучение с учетом проживания, расходов на транспорт, учебного материала.

делать?”.

ситуацию в Красном кресте, выявила проблемы и дала практические рекомендации, которые применяются в этой организации.

- Я категорически не согласна с данным мнением. MBA – это не просто подготовка менеджера, который продает чужие товары. На самом деле МВА – это гораздо больше. Программа учит, как быть гибким в быстро меняющемся мире, быть лидером, понимать законы, принимать очень быстрые решения.

- Сплошные плюсы… А есть ли у программы МВА недостатки? - Минус в том, что это довольно интенсивная программа. Занятость у студентов колоссальная. Однажды провели исследование, сколько времени студент МВА уделяет семье. Так, у одного студента получилось всего лишь два часа в неделю. Хотя у него маленький ребенок. Сначала это тяжело. Однако к третьему семестру студенты с этим справляются гораздо легче. Ведь за этот период они приобретают очень многое для себя, и к тому же это их выбор ради получения знаний и результатов.

Если сторонники MBA делают акцент на том, что это образование дает представление об основных бизнес-стратегиях и процессах, то противники записывают то же самое в минусы. Как известно, в классических программах MBA отражен принцип, что общество конкурентная среда, в которой выживает сильнейший. В то же время некоторые экономистыноваторы, к примеру Эдвард Деминг, известный ни много ни мало тем, что поднял экономику Японии, выступают с критикой этих принципов. Концепция управления качеством Деминга и другие теории остаются за рамками MBA.

- Есть мнение, что разразившийся мировой кризис, а вернее, его последствия, кроется в том, что те самые руководители, получившие данное бизнесобразование и оказавшись в иных условиях (то есть условиях, отличных от тех, в рамках которых они решали бизнес-кейсы во время обучения), не смогли разработать антикризисный план развития компании, то есть по сути ответить на вопрос “Что

Материал взят из онлайнгазеты “Вечерний Бишкек” www.vb.kg

Известно ли вам, какие из данных методов вам подходят?

Аккредитация, репутация. Осознаете ли вы значение рейтингов и в соответствии с каким принципом они составляются? Прошла ли аккредитацию программа обучения? Управление временем. Есть ли место образованию в вашей жизни? Какие усилия нужно приложить для получения образования? Поддержит ли ваша семья ваше решение относительно обучения? Методики преподавания. Какие методы преподавания предусмотрены образовательной программой?

Поступление и график обучения. Наблюдается ли соответствие графика обучения в школе бизнеса вашим желаниям? Прост ли процесс поступления? Что вам нужно для поступления в школу бизнеса?

Содержание курса. Что именно вы сможете изучать?

Перспективы. Каковы перспективы карьеры? Существует ли четкость ориентации на карьеру? Известны ли вам успешные ученики этой школы бизнеса?

AUCA Magazine*December 2012

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использовать на примере местных компаний. Студент должен иметь возможность анализировать полученные знания на предмет применения в конкретных условиях, в стране, где он намерен их реализовывать. Что такое западные стандарты вообще? Это рыночная экономика, которую мы строим и в Кыргызстане. Мы должны понимать, куда идем, и учитывать при этом особенности нашего региона.

Беседа с

Женишбеком Арзыматовым Старший эксперт Программы USAID по содействию Жогорку Кенешу КР.

Женишбек Арзыматов на протяжении долгих лет работал в различных программах по укреплению верховенства права и демократическому строительству в Кыргызстане. Он проработал в программах ведущих международных организаций (USAID, ОБСЕ/БДИПЧ, Aмериканская Ассоциация юристов и т.д.). Имеет магистерскую степень по демократическому управлению и верховенства права юридического колледжа Огайского Северного университета, США. Также он является тренером по избирательному праву, по вопросам адвокатской этики, стандартам справедливого судебного разбирательства. Американский Университет в Центральной Азии существует уже не первый год и непрестанно трудится на благо высококачественного профессионального, также

AUCA Magazine*December2012

личностного роста нынешней молодежи не только Кыргызстана, но и приезжающих к нам учиться из зарубежных стран. Расскажите, в чем на Ваш взгляд заключается особенность данного университета, а так же в чем его отличие. Считаю, что данный ВУЗ является одним из ведущих центров подготовки высококвалифицированных кадров разного профиля отвечающий международным стандартам обучения, а также предлагает спектр профессий необходимых в современном мире. Например, обучающие программы АУЦА по антропологии или бизнес управлению готовят востребованных и новых специалистов, в которых остро нуждается наша страна и не только. Как я понял программа Антропология — первая и единственная на территории Центральной Азии программа, обеспечивающая всестороннюю подготовку студентов в

антропологии, и фокусирующаяся на независимом, аналитическом подходе к обучению и предлагает своим выпускникам большие возможности по устройству на работу в различных международных исследовательских проектах и продолжению собственных полевых исследований. В связи с этим можно уверенно утверждать о том, что есть вполне обоснованный спрос выпускникам на рынке труда ближнего и дальнего зарубежья. К тому пример трудоустройство выпускников в ведущих компаниях и организациях мира как Google, Всемирный Банк, BBC и так далее. Особенностью Вуза является в безграничных возможностях для студентов создавать, усиливать и реализовывать человеческий и интеллектуальный потенциал. Возможности заключаются в наличии сильного и профессионального профессорскопреподавательского состава, материально технической

Расскажите про суть американской системы образования в Кыргызстане и нужен ли он нам ( или насколько он у нас актуален). Считаю, что суть американской системы образования заключается в подготовке и обучении молодых и перспективных кадров, с особым акцентом на развитие критического мышления, способности анализировать и проводить исследования, коммуникативных навыков, лидерства, независимости и уверенности в себе. Для студентов открывается доступ к мировому сообществу как потенциального и полноправного члена. Тому пример владение в совершенстве английским языком, который является глобальным инструментом общения и профессиональными навыками. Полагаю, что для Кыргызстана очень важно перенимать новейшие и успешные модели образования развитых стран мира, включая США, которая показала мировому сообществу свою экономическую мощь и важную роль. Естественно, опыт американской системы пойдет только в пользу, если правильно и грамотно адаптировать с учетом менталитета и особенности нашей страны. Как Вы смотрите на идею права студента самому выбирать дисциплины на том или ином факультете и, по Вашему мнению, что это дает. Это элемент демократии

и свободы выбора. Студенты имеют право выбирать косвенные предметы, которые могут быть по его/ее мнению полезны в карьере. Однако, это не является абсолютным правом, так как имеются предметы, которые он/она должен/на обязательно прослушать, что бы получить соответствующую квалификацию и специальность. Итак, на сегодня АУЦА первый университет в Центральной Азии, который прошел аккредитацию в Соединенных Штатах. Не могли бы Вы рассказать об этом подробнее. Какие преимущества возникают в связи с этим? Честно говоря, я не эксперт по вопросам аккредитации вузов и естественно не позволяется возможным подробно рассказать об этом процессе. Однако, как я понимаю, аккредитация предполагает официальное признание вуза уполномоченным органом о том, что он соответствует определенным стандартам и качеству образования. Преимущество в том, что в стране, где АУЦА прошла аккредитацию котируется диплом и у выпускника есть отличная возможность трудоустроиться. Ваши рекомендации, направленные на улучшение качества образования. Я бы рекомендовал руководству и преподавательскому составу АУЦА ориентировать студентов также на местный трудовой рынок. Пропагандировать важность работы в государственных структурах, вносить посильный вклад в развитие и укрепление кыргызской государственности. В целом нам известно что, к сожалению, выпускники в основном работают в частном секторе или в международных организациях. Предлагаю открыть кафедру административного права и процесса и готовить специалистов по государственной и муниципальной службе.

АУЦА не собирается останавливаться на достигнутом. И уверенно смотрит в будущее в поисках дальнейших нововведений, возможностей сотрудничества и дальнейшего роста. Каким Вы видите ближайшее будущее АУЦА? Могу с уверенностью заявлять, что АУЦА ожидает блестящее будущее, которое принесет еще очень много плодов. Попутно, хотелось бы узнать ваше мнение насчет жизни, активной деятельности студентов помимо учебы в АУЦА. Я думаю, что АУЦА не только ВУЗ где можно получить качественное образование, но и второй дом который дарит теплоту и уют для студентов. Также очень много внеучебных мероприятий, такие как танцы, курсы пения, клубные и общественные мероприятия и так далее. Точно можно сказать, что социальная жизнь студента будет очень активной, что очень позитивно сказывается на личностном совершенствовании. Как Вы знаете, в АУЦА существует Студенческое Правительство – некая уникальная форма самоуправления. Что она дает студентам? Чувство ответственности, искусить вкус власти и понять сложность управленческого процесса и принимать решения, также идеальная возможность реализовать свои амбиции. В завершении нашей беседы, хотелось бы услышать Ваши пожелания АУЦА? Достижения больших успехов и высот и не останавливаться на начатом!

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базы, доступа к новейшим информационным технологиям и другим ресурсам которые позволяют эффективную подготовку кадров. Также, хотелось бы особо отметить, что важными отличительными чертами АУЦА являются прозрачность академических процессов и отсутствие коррупции. Поэтому, АУЦА пользуется большей популярностью не только среди молодежи Кыргыстана, но и ближнего и дальнего зарубежья.

Спасибо!

AUCA Magazine*December 2012

20th Anniversary In 2013 the American University of Central Asia is celebrating its 20th Anniversary. To do so we are having a year-long celebration highlighting the value of an American-style liberal arts education, the success of our students and alumni, and that in only 20 years AUCA has become an indispensible institution in Central Asia and will continue to lead and develop leaders for the democratic transformation of the region. AUCA’s 20th Anniversary celebration reflects the widening impact of AUCA in Central Asia and around the world, and we have planned events around 4 themes: • Excellence through Liberal Arts • Diversity • AUCA Success • A New Generation of Leadership

AUCA Flag Project The AUCA Flag Project’s goal is to show the incredible reach of AUCA students, faculty, alumni, and friends around the world. How the project works is simple: Buy an AUCA Flag (www.auca.kg/en/flag), Take a picture or video with you and the flag, Send us the picture or video so we can post it on the website. The AUCA Flag Project is one way for the entire AUCA Community to show its creativity and diversity. For more information on the AUCA Flag Project email develop@mail.auca.kg.

AUCA Virtual Museum The AUCA Virtual Museum is a collection of videos, photos, and artifacts (like books) that have accumulated over the past 20 years. AUCA students, faculty, and friends will also have the opportunity throughout the year to submit their memories to the Virtual Museum, and have them displayed in our online gallery. In October, AUCA will make the Virtual Museum into a physical gallery exhibition for two weeks, leading up to Initiation the official 20th Anniversary of AUCA on November 7th.

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Calendar of Events 2013 Core Events

Year-Long Projects

January

22-25 – Diversity Week

AUCA Flag Project

February

2 - Open Doors Day 14 – Stream Music Competition 28 – Student Theater ‘Debut’

March

16-22 Green Week

April

4 – AFP Conference (tentative) 12 – Brian Ring

May

18 – TEDxAUCA 25 – Alumni Day of Service and Reunion

June

1-2 – Commencement Weekend

September

14 – AUCA & Peace Corps ‘Volunteering Festival’ 27-29 – CASI Conference

October

12 – New Campus Dedication 24 – Nov 7 – AUCA Virtual Museum Gallery

November

7 – Initiation

AUCA Virtual Museum AUCA Department Weeks $20, $200, $2,000

Gifts and Grants 2011-2012 Friends of AUCA John and Joan Von Leesen John O'Keefe Joe and Margaret Flanagen Mary Schweitzer Martha Merrill Ellen Hurwitz Helen Smith Sharon Bailey Gulnara Dreier Madeleine Reeves Hersh Chadha Henry Myerberg Tatiana Gfoeller Rodger McGrail Eugene Huskey Emita Hill Mary Ford Maeberta Bobb Matha Taylor Bridget Morris Frank and Sallie Pullano Amy Sturrock Board of Trustees Ishenbai Abdurazakov Jonathan Becker Almas Chukin Stanislav Karpovich William Newton-Smith Matt Nimetz Alumni Elnura Djenish Kamila Muslimova Lilia Muslimova Vyacheslav Akimenko Temerlan Moldogaziev Elina Karakulova Aziz Soltobaev Erina Kadyralieva Seyitbek Usmanov Sanjar Tursaliev Rinat Aksianov Nazgul Cholponbaeva Azamat Akeleev Felix Tsoy Melis Turgunbaev Amina Hirani Mamatkhalil Razaev Maksat Korooluev Corporate Partners Mina Group Kumtor Operating Company Coca-Cola Bishkek Bottlers Demir International Bank

Summer Language School AUCA’s 8-week summer program, in collaboration with Bard College (USA) and the Central Asian Studies Institute, gives you a full academic year of language study, cultural and language immersion, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the unspoiled nature of Central Asia. Bishkek is one of the friendliest places to learn Russian, and is one of the most diverse cities in the region, with large local populations of Tajik, Uzbek, Afghan, Uighur, and, of course, Kyrgyz. Additionally, students from the United States, Europe, and Asia trust AUCA to deliver high quality courses and an incredible experience.

Languages Offered Russian Kyrgyz Tajik

Uzbek Dari Uighur

Program advantages • • • •

All Professors are Native Speakers Excursions and Adventures Included Student Peer Conversation Groups Intro to Central Asia Class

SLS COORDINATOR: DINA LUKYANOVA EMAIL: summer@mail.auca.kg PHONE (USA): +1 845 790 0882 PHONE (KG): +996 312 661 119 ext. 248 WWW.AUCA.KG/EN/SLS

Nazgul Albanova, BA 09, Magna Cum Laude After graduating from AUCA Nazgul planned to continue her education and obtain an MBA. Not even her impending marriage deterred her from this goal. In October 2011 she started the MBA program at Goethe University in Frankfurt am Main, located in the financial center of Europe. Nazgul recently completed her MBA, and thanks to the solid base she got at AUCA she was able to become a competitive student who was among top 10% in the class. Now back in Bishkek, she looks back on the year with no regrets about a fascinating and exciting journey with valuable professional and interpersonal experience. Nazgul discovered new countries, new cultures, new people and most importantly, new sides of herself. Though she misses her new friends a lot, she is happy to start a new chapter of her life with her family in her home country.

Abdujalil Abdurasulov, ICP 04 Abdujalil covered the Euro 2012 football tournament for BBC News in Ukraine. Recently, he also covered breaking news stories in Tunisia, Libya, Egypt and Syria (from the Turkish border) as a producer/cameraman. Abdujalil is a BBC producer based in Almaty.

Bektur Chynaliev, ECO 10 After graduating from AUCA Bektur devoted himself to entrepreneurship. He moved to Almaty, Kazakhstan, and started his own business. The past 2 years he has been turning theory into practice. He attracted investors to his business through connections to other AUCA graduates. Now he can say that AUCA is not only one of the best universities in Central Asia, but also a place to network for success.

Rashid Daurov, BA 04 Rashid attended a Master's program in Management from the University of Bristol (UK), where he studied on the Kazakhstani government scholarship "Bolashak". He earned his Certified Public Accountant (USA) accreditation as well. He has worked as an auditor at Ernst&Young and a transaction support consultant at Deloitte. Currently he is Chief Financial Officer at HSBC Kazakhstan. He is happily married to his lovely wife Katya and they have a wonderful 2-year-old son Denis.

Kurman Otorbaev, BA 2006 Kurman works at Colgate-Palmolive (Kazakhstan) as a brand manager and is responsible for the Kazakh and Kyrgyz markets. He is responsible for all marketing campaigns in both countries.

Ildar Yunusov, BA 06 Ildar works for Nestle Food Company in the sales department. He can honestly say that he uses his AUCA degree every day. He gives great thanks to his professors and classmates, as he could have not gotten through without their support and friendship.

AUCA Magazine*December2012