LANGUAGE AND NATIONAL VALUES AS THE FOUNDATION OF NATIONAL IDENTITY

An open curator-led session on “Language and National Values as the Foundation of National Identity” was held for the ФМББ(М)-1-24 group at the E. Umetov Pedagogical Institute under the guidance of the group curator and senior lecturer Minavar Sharabidinovna Matkarimova.The main purpose of the event was to strengthen students’ respect for their native language, national culture, and spiritual values, as well as to discuss the importance of national identity in modern society.The session was conducted in an interactive format, with students actively participating in discussions, case analysis, group activities, debates, and reflection. The participants explored the role of language in preserving national history, worldview, and cultural experience, as well as the importance of national values in shaping personal behavior, responsibility, and relationships within society.Particular attention was given to the role of national values in contemporary life, the relationship between traditions and values, the importance of combining foreign language learning with the development of the native language, and opportunities to promote the use of the Kyrgyz language in the digital environment. Students also presented creative ideas aimed at encouraging the use of the Kyrgyz language among young people.The discussion emphasized that national identity is not limited to preserving the cultural heritage of the past. It also involves developing that heritage in response to modern conditions and passing it on to future generations. It was highlighted that language represents the voice of national identity, while values form its inner substance.At the end of the session, students identified their personal contribution to the development of the Kyrgyz language and national values and outlined specific steps they could take. The event concluded with the idea: “National identity begins with the choices each of us makes today.”