“Mawarannahr Summer Seminars” Continue to Expand International Reach

The Fifth Mawarannahr Summer Seminars officially commenced at the Institute of Islamic Thought in Ankara, Türkiye, bringing together young researchers for an intensive academic training program dedicated to the intellectual heritage of Mawarannahr.

This year’s edition marks a significant expansion in international participation. The month-long program has brought together 30 researchers from 10 countries, including Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Azerbaijan, Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, and Tatarstan (Russian Federation), reflecting the growing international interest in the scholarly legacy of Central Asia.

Among the five participants representing Uzbekistan is Jonibek Jumayev, Head of the Department for the Development of Pilgrimage Tourism at the Imam Bukhari International Scientific Research Center.

The official opening ceremony was attended by Prof. Mehmet Görmez, President of the Institute of Islamic Thought, and Prof. Bünyamin Erul, who welcomed the participants and extended their congratulations and best wishes for a successful program.

During the ceremony, Mr. Jumayev conveyed the sincere greetings and best wishes of the leadership and staff of the Imam Bukhari International Scientific Research Center to the Institute’s administration and presented commemorative gifts on behalf of the Center.

It is noteworthy that when the Mawarannahr Summer Seminars were first launched, participation was limited to researchers from Uzbekistan. In subsequent years, scholars from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and other neighboring countries joined the initiative. This year, the program has reached a new milestone with participants representing ten countries, highlighting its steadily growing international profile.

Over the course of the month-long training program, distinguished scholars and leading specialists will deliver lectures on key disciplines in Islamic studies, with particular emphasis on the rich scholarly heritage of the Mawarannahr intellectual tradition. The seminars aim to strengthen international academic cooperation while fostering a deeper understanding of Central Asia’s enduring contribution to Islamic civilization.