Uzbek students concurrently study at least three languages. Kamila Usmonova, head of philological studies department at the National Education Center told UT more on that.

- What languages are taught at schools in Uzbekistan today?

- It is mandatory to teach three languages. Firstly this is the language of teaching. Uzbekistan provides school education in seven languages: Uzbek, Karakalpak, Russian, Tajik, Turkmen, Kyrgyz and Kazakh. All non-Uzbek schools provide the Uzbek language as a separate subject. The curriculum also envisages learning of the Russian language and a foreign language. Students can choose which foreign language they want to learn: English, French or German. Besides, there are the schools where the Arabic, Indian, Chinese, Korean, Hebrew and other languages are taught as a foreign language. Language study is prioritized today since knowledge of languages is the gateway to the boundless world of information.

- What works are studied in the literature class?

- A literature course includes the works of world literature. Much attention is paid to the study of Uzbek poets and writers’ creativity, as their works are essential for nurturing the younger generation in the spirit of national traditions and customs. Therewith, the works of Russian, American and European writers are taught as well as they are a very important element for expanding students’ outlook, and acquainting them with the world\'s cultural values. Some works are studied in the original language within the language subjects.

- What has changed in the way of teaching languages and literature?

- Prior to the implementation of the National Staff Training Program, the language teaching was built on in-depth study of grammar, the vocabulary and speaking skills were in the background. Today, these traditions have been preserved only in teaching of the native language. The spoken language is in priority when it comes to foreign languages, and the grammar and vocabulary is linked up. The literature classes provide a deeper analysis of the works and careers of their authors now. This became feasible thanks to the use of modern interactive teaching technologies. It is important that the lessons of literature became interactive and interesting.

- How is the process of introduction of modern multimedia teaching technologies moving in language and literature classes? - I wish this process was more intensive. Now we have modern electronic textbooks, literature, films on creative work of different writers. These supplies are available both in electronic data carriers at schools, and on the official website of the Ministry of Public Education. The website even provides a distance foreign languages course. Meanwhile, the task of creating new national multimedia resources, promotion of their wider application in the educational process is still relevant.

- Could you tell how the National Education Center enhances the quality of language teaching, please?

- We provide methodological support to teachers and promote the best pedagogical practices. We do that through the publication of manuals and professional journals like Til va Adabiyot Ta’limi and Teaching Language and Literature. The seminars and competitions ran by the center yield good outcomes. (Source: “Uzbekistan Today” newspaper)