Uzbekistan to launch emotional learning for young children

TASHKENT, Uzbekistan (MNTV) —  UK-based nonprofit Think Equal is preparing to roll out a pioneering early childhood education program in Uzbekistan aimed at teaching empathy, emotional literacy, and peaceful conflict resolution to young children.

According to the Dunyo Information Agency, the initiative was introduced during a meeting at the Uzbek Embassy with Leslee Udwin, founder and executive director of Think Equal. The program targets children between the ages of 3 and 6, and emphasizes emotional development alongside traditional learning.

The Think Equal curriculum is currently in use in countries such as India, Kenya, Canada, Australia, South Africa, Mexico, Singapore, and the United Kingdom. The 30-week program consists of three weekly sessions using illustrated storybooks, games, and guided activities to nurture self-awareness, empathy, and nonviolent problem-solving.

Uzbek officials at the meeting expressed interest in partnering with the organization and agreed to pursue further discussions with the Ministry of Preschool and School Education.

The announcement comes amid a broader regional push to improve child welfare across Central Asia. At a recent “Dialogue for Children” conference in Tashkent, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan pledged greater cooperation in pediatric healthcare.

 Kazakhstan also announced a new Proton Therapy Center in Astana, which will treat up to 800 patients annually and serve children from neighboring countries, including Uzbekistan’s autonomous Karakalpakstan region.