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I was always enchanted by the obvious love
that my students have for each other.
I could not resist also feeling great affection for them.
These are very bright freshmen in "American Studies" .
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In a more formal pose--but notice the young man on the left.
He was always the most daring in taking off his mandatory tie,
for which the university threatened to expel him.
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The students in this class of sophmores were preparing
for study in the United States in a special program.
Even those who did not go to the U. S.
have had greater success locally because
of their advanced English skills.
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It is easy to understand that, because of the civil war of 1992,
many of the people with langauge skills, creativity and initiative
justifiably sought better conditions for themselves and their families.
However, I consistently met many individuals with strong capabilities and
great personal diplomatic skill who have remained in Tajikistan,
determined to employ their cultural heritage as a resource
with which to build a country of liberty and security. Their resilience, endurance and intelligence
inspire a deep and enduring respect. I count it a great honor that many still
assist me in research and share their insights, and the love of their culture
with me. The educational system has collapsed for lack of funds after the national economy
entered systemic failure at the beginning of the civil war. However impossible it may seem,
Tajiks retain intellectual and cultural resources of great value.
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