August 2, 2021 – During a study abroad program on “Politics and Society in Central Asia” for students, professors and staff of the University of Missouri, university representatives led by Vice Provost for International Programs Dr. Mary Stegmaier, signed a cooperation agreement with Toktomamatov International University in Jalal-Abad on July 22, 2021.
The purpose of the agreement is to serve as an indication of mutual interest for cooperation between the two institutions. Specifically, the agreement includes encouragement for faculty to collaborate on joint teaching programs, as well as student and faculty exchange programs. This is the second such agreement between the University of Missouri and a Kyrgyz university, the first having been signed with Jalal-Abad State University (JASU) earlier this spring. On its website, Toktomamatov International University thanked their American counterparts for signing a joint agreement on cooperation and for participating in a discussion on “Realities, Prospects of Cooperation between the United States and Kyrgyzstan.”
In addition to their activities in Jalalabad, the group of 15 University of Missouri faculty, staff and students in the program travelled to other sites in Kyrgyzstan, visiting Bishkek, Osh, Issyk-Kul, attending lectures with leading academics, and visiting cultural attractions such as the Uzgen Minaret near Osh, and the Burana Tower. The group arrived in Kyrgyzstan on July15 and departed August 1.
“This program offers undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to experience the rich culture of Kyrgyzstan and to learn about the political and economic challenges the country and region face. For students who plan to work in foreign affairs or international development, studying in Kyrgyzstan will distinguish them from others competing for international careers.” – Dr. Mary Stegmaier remarked. A graduate student in the Truman School of Government and Public Affairs, Lindal Sambrook exclaimed, “The Kyrgyzstan study abroad program through the University of Missouri has been an incredible experience. I’ve learned so much about the cultures, people, and politics of this amazing country- more than I ever would from being a tourist here.”
The next University of Missouri study abroad program trip to the Kyrgyz Republic is scheduled for May-June 2022.