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American Studies Symposium a Resounding Success
Having taken no pre-registration, it was almost impossible for the organizers for the American Studies in Central Asia symposium to determine just how many people would attend the weekend event. The large conference room at the Pinara Hotel in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan was ready to seat 125 attendees, but over 200 high school teachers, university instructors, students, researchers and administrators – all with an interest in American Studies – packed the room.
The first annual American Studies in Central Asia, held in early April 2004, was American in its nature by being multi-cultural and diverse, attracting those connected to both universities and high schools academic professionals and students, to either participate by presenting a paper or being a part of a very active audience. The unique partnership of several participating universities in the country ensured that the interest and benefits of offering American Studies as part of a curriculum is not simply within the domain of any one school but rather a very widespread interest of many. And for those who thought that American Studies was primarily a focus of English language and composition, the papers presented at the symposium provided a different insight. American Studies means history, political science, music, literature, ethnic and multi-cultural studies, poetry and drama, economics, comparative cultures and politics, even health issues.
The event opened with a Plenary Session of welcomes by representatives of all participating universities and the funders, featuring also a keynote address by Professor Alan DeYoung, specialist on educational reform and issues within Central Asia. Registrants continued to pack the rooms for panel sessions on Saturday that offered a variety of topics ranging from the ‘Myth and Reality’ of American Studies and what can be expected to the ‘Historical, Political, Economic and Global Perspective’ of American Studies.
A student and faculty roundtable on Sunday morning continued to attract a large audience as a lively discussion on developing a Regional Association of American Studies in Central Asia became a major focus. The symposium concluded with remarks by Fulbright Scholar Professor George Carter, who addressed the challenges of American Studies in Central Asia.
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American Jazz opened up the symposium
Several hundred people attended the opening night Plenary Session of the American Studies in Central Asia symposium and were treated to a jazz fest of local and international guest artists. Jazz, with its roots in America, set the tone for the remaining weekend, and a very successful symposium. |
Turkish Students end the program with brilliance
Students attending the Turkish Manas University ended the evening with a brilliant performance that brought everyone to their feet. |
Afghan Students performing a traditional dance
Afghan students attending the American University of Central Asia perform a traditional dance. |
A Russian Story told in Dance
This group of dancers from Slavic University in Bishkek told a fine story through dance |
Traditional Music and Dance Popular at American Studies Symposium
Traditional Music and Dance were very popular entertainment at the American Studies Symposium in Central Asia, held recently in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. There was considerable discussion that globalization, and especially western and American influences could detract people from their own local culture and customs, but the traditional entertainment by the young students from several participating universities proved that although they enjoy western music.....they love their own country's cultural traditions. And can perform with beauty and excellence! |
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