President Shavkat Mirziyoyev attended the launch ceremony of the nationwide movement for reading development in Uzbekistan, held at the International Congress Center. This was reported by the presidential press service.
The head of state noted that the world is rapidly changing, with digital technologies, modern gadgets, and artificial intelligence increasingly penetrating our lives. In such complex conditions, the ability to think independently is a huge advantage.
“A person who reads thinks deeply and soundly. And a person with such thinking can change society,” the president said.
It was emphasized that in New Uzbekistan, reading culture and attention to books are being raised to the level of state policy. Reading is not only a matter of education but also the future of the nation, the spiritual power of the people, and an important factor in the country's competitiveness.
The head of state recalled that thinkers such as Imam Bukhari, Muhammad Khwarizmi, Ahmad Ferghani, Alisher Navoi, and Mirzo Ulugbek made huge contributions to human civilization. Their high achievements were based on the pursuit of knowledge and reading books.
In this regard, it was noted that for the country to demonstrate itself as a powerful and highly potential nation on the international stage, it must rely on two solid foundations: scientific and spiritual heritage, as well as modern science and advanced technologies.
The president emphasized that from the first days of his tenure, he has prioritized introducing young people to reading and fostering a love for knowledge. The “Young Reader” competition, held since 2017, has attracted millions of young people to reading. The “Young Reader Family” competition helps bring reading culture into every home.
At the beginning of 2026, a new system to support the most active readers was introduced based on a decision. Recently, the next republican stage of the “Young Reader” competition concluded. It featured 42 of the most knowledgeable young people from all regions of the country. Three winners were awarded presidential gifts — modern cars.
The head of state sincerely congratulated the winners, their teachers, and parents, noting that such talented, inquisitive, and knowledge-thirsty young people are the true support of New Uzbekistan.
The ceremony also focused on international experience in reading development. In particular, the “Arab Reading Challenge” program, launched in 2015 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in the United Arab Emirates, has become one of the largest educational movements in the world, covering over 200 million readers in a short time.
Within the framework of close friendship and strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and the UAE, it was decided to elevate this noble idea to a new level in the country based on national spiritual heritage.
To this end, the “National Reading Movement” program is being launched. The president noted that he recently signed a separate decree on active state support for this program.
Now, the final stage of this event will be held annually at the presidential level. The total annual prize fund of the program is $240,000. The grand prize winner will receive $50,000. The movement will cover all regions of Uzbekistan. Students from grades 1 to 11 of general education schools can participate.
The president stressed that this initiative will serve to strengthen the reading environment in schools, families, and society, awakening a new creative spirit in the hearts of young people.
“I view this program not just as a book reading competition, but as a strategic investment in the future of our beloved Motherland. If we put a good book in our children's hands today, tomorrow they will certainly be able to build the great future of New Uzbekistan,” the head of state said.
At the ceremony, the president called on all students, teachers, parents, and the general public to actively participate in this nationwide movement.
It was noted that a nation that reads, strives for knowledge, and understands good meanings will never be defeated. The importance of implementing the idea of enlightened ancestors, “There is no salvation except through knowledge,” on a national scale was emphasized.
Source: www.gazeta.uz