By: Sarvinoz Ismoilova
It was during my university entrance preparation years. At that time, I could never have imagined that one day I would become a teacher, pursue doctoral studies, or inspire others.
In the society I was born into, girls are not always encouraged to dream big. In some families, a girl gets married before she even has a chance to receive an education. Back then, my family was of modest means. Pursuing education required significant financial resources. To gain admission to the university, I needed to attend preparatory courses in several subjects, which required a certain amount of money.
But my mother — my wise, loving, and heroic mother — made a small but powerful decision one day: she decided to send me to a preparatory course. She recommended a young and knowledgeable teacher named Adolat Mamonova. Ms. Mamonova, a native language teacher, trained students for university entrance exams.
I vividly remember my first day in her class. The classroom was small, but it was filled with powerful energy. My teacher Adolat was only 22 years old, but she was serious, knowledgeable, and demanding. Despite her young age, she treated each student with care and, in particular, always expected answers from me with determination. The lessons were very engaging. She spent most of her time with us — even on weekends, she would conduct Q&A sessions and give us extra assignments.
One day, I came to class unprepared. I hadn’t completed my homework and couldn’t answer any questions. My teacher asked me a question related to the topic — I couldn’t respond. A heavy silence fell. Our eyes met. Then she said firmly:
“You’ve completely stopped studying. I will inform your mother about this.”
I was shocked. I was terrified that my mother would hear about this and lose faith in me. At that time, that would have been a great shame for me.
After returning home, I pulled myself together. I redid all the tasks, made even greater efforts than before. I wanted to be active in class, to get my teacher’s attention, and most importantly, to make sure my mother only heard good things about me. From that day on, I always completed my assignments on time — and even went beyond expectations.
That’s how my university entrance preparation days passed. I applied to study psychology. While waiting for the results, I was anxious — “What if I don’t get accepted?” I thought. But the news came — I had been accepted! I had received the highest score in the native language subject!
My mother and I rushed to share the joyful news with my teacher Adolat. She was even more thrilled than we were. She praised me a lot. She told my mother:
“This girl has knowledge, determination, and spirit.”
At that moment, there was pride in her eyes and gratitude in mine.
Today, I am a teacher myself. I am pursuing a PhD in psychology. I teach at one of the prestigious universities in Uzbekistan. I am one of the students’ favorite lecturers.
Every time I enter the classroom, I ask myself:
“Have I managed to be just, demanding, and sincere — like my teacher Adolat?”
Adolat was the one who inspired me to pursue the path of knowledge. Teaching is not only about transferring knowledge — it’s about instilling confidence, igniting the inner flame. I learned from my teacher that everyone has potential — if only someone believes in them and shows them the way.
Today, I am young, dedicated, and knowledgeable — just like my teacher Adolat.
But… life doesn’t always go the way we wish.
Adolat, my beloved teacher, did not live to see my later achievements. During my student years, I received the heartbreaking news of her passing. My mother and I were deeply saddened. A devoted, knowledgeable, and sincere teacher had left our society. I never had the chance to express the gratitude I held in my heart.
But every lesson I teach, every bit of love I give to my students, every accomplishment I achieve — it is all part of her legacy. Because teachers, too, have teachers — and mine was a great person who left a deep mark on my life.
Later, I came to understand that I had received one of the greatest acts of kindness in my life. Because of Adolat’s compassionate spirit, I was exempted from paying for the preparatory course. She educated me not for money, but with pure trust and belief in me. That was not only financial relief but also a spiritual lift — an open door of opportunity.
Through this experience, I first realized that not everything in life revolves around money and personal gain. Adolat taught me through her actions that the heart, intention, and belief in someone can be more powerful than wealth.
From my teacher, I learned not only the art of teaching but also the blessings of selfless, wholehearted education. That became one of the key lessons that shaped me into the teacher I am today.
That’s why now, as an educator, I strive to share my knowledge sincerely and selflessly, regardless of my students’ family background or financial situation. I am ready to support each of them.
One of my dreams today is to see more teachers like Adolat — kind, demanding yet sincere, and deeply dedicated to knowledge. Because a single teacher can change an entire generation, nurture hope, and transform society.
I am a continuer of this path. I follow the road Adolat once paved for me. I welcome each of my students into my heart, planting seeds of confidence in theirs.
I truly believe that my work as a teacher today will inspire and nurture future Adolats. In our country, in the world, and in every heart, the number of true, light-giving teachers will grow.
Every student deserves to have their own “Adolat” in life. Only then will trust, progress, and compassion awaken in our society.
And I hope that my students today will become part of the community of educators tomorrow, carrying on this noble path.
Sarvinoz Ismoilova
Born on January 25, 1999, in koson district, Kashkadarya region. Currently a lecturer at the Department of Pedagogy and Psychology, Turon University. PhD candidate at Karshi State University.
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