President Shavkat Mirziyoyev launched a nationwide movement on Friday to promote and develop a culture of reading, according to the presidential press service. Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, the Minister of Cabinet Affairs of the United Arab Emirates, also attended the event.
In a world changing at a breakneck pace—where digital technologies, modern gadgets, and artificial intelligence are embedding themselves ever deeper into our daily lives—the absolute greatest advantage a person can have is the capacity for independent thought, the president declared.
"A person who reads stands out for their deep and healthy intellect. Armed with that kind of mindset, an individual has the power to transform society," he said.
The leader of the country added that a love for books is not merely a matter of education; it is a vital factor that shapes the future of the nation, the spiritual resilience of its people, and the global competitiveness of the country.
Shavkat Mirziyoyev recalled that from the very beginning of his presidency, he has prioritized engaging the youth in reading and fostering a genuine passion for knowledge. This commitment saw the launch of the "Young Bibliophile" competition in 2017, alongside the "Young Reading Family" contest, whose winners are awarded brand-new cars. Earlier this year, a novel incentive system was introduced to further boost reading activity. Government agencies are now opening "reading corners," establishing dedicated reading hours, and tracking employee metrics, with the most avid readers receiving cash bonuses. Financial rewards have also been set aside for students, supported by the newly established Fund for the Development of Reading Culture.
The president has officially launched the "National Reading Movement" program for primary and secondary school students from grades 1 to 11. The initiative is modeled after the "Arab Reading Challenge," a program introduced in 2015 by the Emir of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, which has reportedly engaged over 200 million readers.
The final stage of the annual competition will be held with the personal participation of the President. The program features a total prize pool of $240,000, with the grand prize winner taking home $50,000—marking the largest monetary reward ever dedicated to promoting literacy in Uzbekistan.
"I view this program not merely as a book-reading competition, but as a strategic investment in the future of our homeland. If we place good books into the hands of our children today, they will undoubtedly have the capability to build the great future of New Uzbekistan tomorrow," the head of state declared.
The president called upon all students, teachers, parents, and the general public to actively participate in this nationwide movement.
He emphasized that a nation that reads, strives for knowledge, and embraces high ideals can never be defeated.
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