A new conversational initiative has emerged in the capital of Uzbekistan, aimed at helping Russian-speaking residents and language learners overcome their fear of speaking Uzbek. Every Sunday, participants gather at local cafes to engage in casual, real-world dialogues over a cup of tea. These informal sessions last for a couple of hours and focus heavily on interactive games and practical communication rather than traditional textbook memorization.

The club is led by Abdulaziz Uzakov, a tutor with nearly a decade of teaching experience. Although formally trained in law, Uzakov shifted to language instruction after observing a sharp increase in demand for Uzbek lessons coupled with a severe shortage of qualified bilingual teachers in Tashkent. He notes that the current educational landscape often lacks instructors who can seamlessly bridge the gap for Russian speakers without relying on overly academic or rigid methods.

Uzakov's curriculum prioritizes active speaking from the very beginning, minimizing deep theoretical grammar in favor of immediate verbal output. Meeting topics are chosen collectively by the participants via a group chat, ranging from everyday household scenarios and shopping experiences to personal weekly plans. The instructor places significant emphasis on creating a safe, encouraging environment where mistakes are viewed as a natural part of the learning process rather than a reason for embarrassment.

The club attracts a diverse group of attendees, including individuals who spent years living abroad and have recently returned to Tashkent, as well as ethnic Uzbeks who grew up in predominantly Russian-speaking households. Members highlight that these regular Sunday gatherings provide a much-needed psychological boost, enabling them to navigate daily interactions in taxi rides, local shops, and professional settings with growing confidence.

Source: www.gazeta.uz