THE ETERNAL LEGACY OF AVICENNA AND THE MISSION OF TAJIK SCIENCE IN THE MODERN WORLD

Today, on June 29, 2026, the Tajikistan International University of Foreign Languages named after Sotim Ulugzoda hosted a university-wide conference entitled “The Eternal Legacy of Avicenna and the Mission of Tajik Science in the Modern World.” The event was attended by the Rector of the University, Professor Zhilo Gulnazarzoda, as well as prominent scholars, researchers, faculty members, and staff of the institution.

Opening the conference, Rector Professor Zhilo Gulnazarzoda, Doctor of Philological Sciences, highlighted the initiative of the Founder of Peace and National Unity, Leader of the Nation, President of the Republic of Tajikistan, His Excellency Emomali Rahmon, to establish the International Avicenna Prize in the field of medicine. The Rector emphasized the significance of this initiative in promoting scientific excellence and preserving the intellectual heritage of one of humanity’s greatest scholars.

It was noted that Abu Ali ibn Sina (Avicenna) was an outstanding scientist, philosopher, poet, mathematician, and physician whose achievements have earned worldwide recognition and admiration throughout the centuries.

The conference continued with a presentation by Professor Muhammadjon Qosimov of the Department of Theory and Practice of Linguistics. In his speech, he discussed the origin of the name “Sina,” provided historical information about Avicenna’s Tajik ancestry, and described President Emomali Rahmon’s initiative to establish the International Avicenna Prize in Medicine as a lasting symbol of scientific unity and historical appreciation on a global scale.

Professor Sharifmurod Isrofilniyo of the Department of Literary Theory and History delivered a comprehensive report on the birthplace, remarkable achievements, and enduring works of the great Tajik philosopher. He emphasized that Avicenna was of Tajik origin, born in the village of Afshana near Bukhara, and devoted his entire life to the advancement of knowledge, particularly in medicine, philosophy, astronomy, and literature.

During the conference, first-year doctoral student Shahzod Qayumov also presented a report entitled “The Sage of the East: The Immortal Work of Sotim Ulugzoda.” His presentation focused on the renowned literary work by Sotim Ulugzoda dedicated to the life and scholarly contributions of Avicenna, highlighting its significance in preserving the memory of the great thinker for future generations.

The event concluded with productive discussions in which faculty members and doctoral students actively participated, exchanging views on Avicenna’s intellectual legacy and the role of Tajik science in addressing contemporary global challenges.

As part of the celebration of National Unity Day, the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Tajikistan awarded Certificates of Honor to two distinguished members of the University community: Associate Professor Muhabbatsho Qobilov of the Department of Philosophy and Political Science and Fazliddin Khalifaev, Advisor of the Faculty of International Relations, in recognition of their dedicated service and professional achievements.