This is a translated excerpt of Ajara’s post from the Russian-language NewEurasia. As Kyrgyzstan recently celebrated its 16 year anniversary of the Independence Day, I thought it might be interesting to read Ajara’s personal opinion of an overview of where Kyrgyzstan stands and what has been done in 16 years.

Kyrgyzstan is a relatively young republic, which despite everything still tries to achieve democracy, and slowly step by step is approaching its aim. Our republic is a tiny country with a population of more than 5 million people. A small beautiful country, with hospitable and tolerant people, amazing nature and rich history. After the Soviet Union collapse, it gained its independence which entailed a question: Which way to move? Which way to choose? The answer was evident- a democratic path of development that promised free and secure future. However, the results of last 15 years have shown that Kyrgyzstan was going in a false direction, putting on a mask of democracy.

Indeed, during these 15 years the country went through massive changes in the sphere of education, science, culture, economy and politics. But we have to admit that it did not fully use its potential. Many things were done and many problems were put aside and ignored. Obviously, we need to address and solve these problems now; otherwise they will hamper more on the way towards goals.

I deeply believe that people make up the essence of each country and nation. If every citizen asks himself or herself what changes he or she can bring to Kyrgyzstan and tries to resolve the most difficult problems, this will definitely lead to prosperity and healthy growth of the country.

In childhood, I used to believe that I am the chosen one with unusual capabilities and personality. No, it was not about the feeling of superiority over other children. I was just sure that my life will turn out to be different, not like everybody else’s. To be honest, I am still sure it will happen so. Now I surely know that this feeling can be explained by my enormous desire to help my family, relatives, friends, university, city and country. I can be helpful only if I become a strong professional and know all my responsibilities as a citizen of my country.

Who knows, maybe one day my dream will come true and I become a Ministry of Education? This way I would be able to resolve big problems in education field. However, this does not necessarily mean that in order to change your country’s fate one needs to be a highly official. Sometimes a village teacher who is a real professional can do things better than a selfish official who does not know his profession.
In the area of education there are many unresolved problems such as brain-drain, lack of professionals, and of course low level of quality of education. The system needs new reforms and changes. In my opinion, education, science and culture are the most important areas and fundamentals of modern democratic society.

I am really eager to make my own contribution in resolving problems of my country and become a reason and a witness of its dynamic development towards a real democratic state. I have so many ambitious plans and great hopes! I clearly realize that the implementation of my plans and goals will depend on my hard work, strong will, optimism and self-belief. My country needs me, and it also needs its each daughter and son.