UCA Hosts Internationally Recognised Instructional Skills Workshop for Educators in Kyrgyzstan

From 23–25 March 2026, the University of Central Asia hosted an intensive three-day Instructional Skills Workshop (ISW) at its Central Office in Bishkek, bringing together educators from various educational institutions across Kyrgyzstan.

The internationally recognised, Canadian-certified 24-hour programme focused on learner-centred and reflective teaching practices, creating a collaborative environment where participants strengthened their instructional skills, explored innovative teaching methods, and built confidence in applying student-centred approaches in their classrooms.

The workshop was facilitated by the only three ISW-certified facilitators currently based in Kyrgyzstan. Throughout the programme, participants designed and delivered three mini-lessons using the ISW lesson design model, refining their teaching practice through peer feedback and reflective learning.

The workshop encouraged educators to experiment with active learning strategies and fostered a supportive atmosphere where participants felt comfortable trying new approaches, learning from one another, and exchanging professional experiences. Beyond individual professional growth, the programme also helped build a growing community of reflective educators committed to advancing teaching and learning practices across Kyrgyzstan.

One of the participants, Zhamal A., described the workshop as a transformative and timely experience.

“This workshop was a great opportunity to refresh my knowledge and put theory back into practice. Right after the course, I facilitated a Professional Development Activity myself, and the knowledge from ISW truly helped me feel more confident,” she shared.

“The three days flew by in one breath, and honestly, I didn’t want it to end. The experience left me with such warm and positive feelings,” she added.

Building on the success of the March workshop, UCA plans to continue offering ISW programmes for educators across Kyrgyzstan, with the next cohort planned for summer 2026. The initiative aims to further expand a network of reflective, student-centred educators and strengthen the quality of teaching and learning throughout the country.