“The Mankurt Feels Especially Relevant Today”: Sherzodkhon Qudratkhodja on Aitmatov’s Legacy
Uzbekistan
In the age of artificial intelligence and digital algorithms, the image of the mankurt created by Chingiz Aitmatov is gaining renewed relevance, serving as a warning about the risk of losing historical memory. Sherzodkhon Qudratkhodja, Rector of the University of Journalism and Mass Communications of Uzbekistan, made the remarks in an interview with Vesti.kg.
According to him, Aitmatov has long transcended the boundaries of national literature to become a figure of global significance. His works, exploring conscience, human dignity, memory and loyalty to one’s roots, continue to be read by new generations in Uzbekistan.
The writer’s legacy is becoming particularly significant amid the rapid development of artificial intelligence. Qudratkhodja noted that the digital environment is increasingly shaping the thinking of young people, while historical and moral reference points risk becoming blurred. In these circumstances, Aitmatov’s works can remind individuals of their origins and responsibilities.
The rector said Aitmatov’s works are included in the university’s educational programmes as a tool for developing the humanitarian thinking of future journalists. In his view, modern media must resist superficiality and the pursuit of clicks, while using new formats to promote literary and spiritual heritage.
Qudratkhodja described Aitmatov as a spiritual bridge connecting the peoples of Central Asia. He also highlighted the importance of the anniversary Issyk-Kul Forum as a platform for open intellectual dialogue amid global crises.
Addressing the younger generation, the rector urged them to read more and preserve historical memory.
“Do not allow anyone — neither information manipulators nor digital algorithms — to deprive you of this memory,” he stressed.
The writer’s legacy is becoming particularly significant amid the rapid development of artificial intelligence. Qudratkhodja noted that the digital environment is increasingly shaping the thinking of young people, while historical and moral reference points risk becoming blurred. In these circumstances, Aitmatov’s works can remind individuals of their origins and responsibilities.
The rector said Aitmatov’s works are included in the university’s educational programmes as a tool for developing the humanitarian thinking of future journalists. In his view, modern media must resist superficiality and the pursuit of clicks, while using new formats to promote literary and spiritual heritage.
Qudratkhodja described Aitmatov as a spiritual bridge connecting the peoples of Central Asia. He also highlighted the importance of the anniversary Issyk-Kul Forum as a platform for open intellectual dialogue amid global crises.
Addressing the younger generation, the rector urged them to read more and preserve historical memory.
“Do not allow anyone — neither information manipulators nor digital algorithms — to deprive you of this memory,” he stressed.
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