Shokhsanam Niyazmetova is currently working in Urgench as an ESN Coach Counterpart to support ESN Coaches strengthen teacher-training practices and build local language teachers’ English skills and teaching competencies. We asked Shokhsanam a few questions about her background, motivation, and interests in working with ESN Coaches in Uzbekistan. Shokhsanam shared her opinions and ideas with us, highlighting her motivation.
“I love children and I am always ready to accept something new.” - Shokhsanam Niyazmetova
Prior to joining the ESN program, what educational teaching/teacher training experience(s) did you have in Uzbekistan or abroad?
I have experience teaching English at Specialized Secondary School in Urgench for 14 years. After earning my master`s degree in 2016, I became a Senior Teacher at the regional Teacher Training Center. In 2013, after Presidential Decree #1875 about increasing foreign language teaching, I became a Teacher Trainer and attended special courses in Tashkent.
What motivated you/prompted you to work in education, either as a teacher or a teacher trainer?
First of all, I can say that I like teaching English. I love children and I am always ready to accept something new. And another thing that motivated me most is my mother`s example. She was a model English teacher.
What do you think is one of the most significant ways in which ESN Coaches can contribute toward developing English language education and teacher training in Uzbekistan?
One of the most significant ways in which ESN Coaches can contribute toward developing English language education and teacher training in Uzbekistan is that they can increase the level of teaching English. It is a good opportunity to practice English with native speakers.
What advice or recommendation would you make to ESN Coaches so that they can observe and experience all of the different cultural offerings that Uzbekistan has to offer?
When they have free time, they can visit different social events. There they can know different customs and traditions of Uzbek people.
What do you look forward to learning/experiencing with your ESN Coach and as part of the ESN program? How do you think you will grow as a professional in your field alongside your ESN coach?
Learning/experiencing with our ESN Coach and as part of the ESN program is really effective to me. It develops not only my speaking and teaching skills but also inspires me to continue working with English teachers.
What are your personal/professional goals that you hope to accomplish while you are an ESN Coach Counterpart?
My professional goals that I hope to accomplish while I am an ESN Coach Counterpart are to attend and observe teacher training courses. It helps me to become a more professional teacher and I can share my experience.
What is the most interesting/surprising thing you have experienced in working with your ESN Coach so far?
Our coach, Mina Gavell, is open minded and always ready to support with her innovative ideas. She is modest like many Uzbek people, but the most surprising thing is that she is a workaholic - being busy always creating something for her participants.
To learn more about the ESN Coaches program, please visit https://www.esn-teachers.org/programs/coaches-program