Life in the Regions: A Young Teacher with a Rare Name from Balıkçı Made it to the Top 25 Educators in the Country

Марина Онегина Society
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Zubarzhad Jalilova, a resident of Balykchy in the Issyk-Kul region, has aspired to become an English teacher since her early years.

Born in 1998 in Otuuk, Naryn region, she received her name from her father, who wanted it to reflect originality, similarity to her older sister's name, and have Arabic roots meaning "emerald." Currently, Zubarzhad lives in Balykchy and graduated from Bishkek State University in 2020, earning a diploma in "Philological Education" with a focus on the English language. "I am proud to be an English teacher," she shares.

According to Jalilova, her love for the English language began in childhood through participation in Olympiads and the support of her grandfather, who brought her dictionaries. "My interest was also inspired by the professionalism and creative approach of teachers at school. Since September 2020, I have been working at secondary school No. 6 in Balykchy and actively participate in educational activities, including projects and seminars," she recounts.

Zubarzhad employs a variety of teaching methods, including critical thinking and problem-based learning. "My students engage in projects, research, and creative activities, which develop not only their language skills but also their leadership qualities. I believe that modern education is impossible without digital technologies, so I actively use interactive boards and online platforms. I strive to make my lessons interesting and inspiring, creating an atmosphere where everyone can freely express their thoughts," she adds.

Sometimes funny moments occur during lessons, especially during role-playing games when students show creativity. Although Zubarzhad started her career only five years ago, with the support of colleagues and the school administration, she has achieved significant success. In 2024, she participated in the "Teacher of the Year" competition, where she won in the city and regional rounds and then became one of the 25 finalists at the national level, receiving awards from the Ministry of Education and Science.

"The professional achievements of my students are my main reward. They take prize-winning places in Olympiads. For example, in the 2021-2022 academic year, my student Aziz Elebesov took III place in the city Olympiad, and this academic year my student Toktoeva Azhara took II place," she said.

Some of Zubarzhad's students have become winners of the FLEX program and are studying in the USA. "I strive to develop by participating in various training sessions and community life. In the future, I want to continue improving my qualifications and teach other teachers, sharing my experience," she emphasizes.

Gallery: Zubarzhad Jalilova.
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