Professors of the Department of History and Cultural Heritage at the Silk Road International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage — Professor Nargis T. Nurulla-Khoja and Associate Professor Mastura Sidikova — delivered guest lectures within the framework of the “Silk Road” program at two prestigious academic institutions in the United Kingdom: University College London and King’s College, University of Cambridge.

University College London is one of the world’s leading universities and a major intellectual center that brings together scholars and students from more than 150 countries. The University of Cambridge, in turn, is recognized as one of the oldest and most prestigious higher education institutions in the world, serving as a global center for education, science, research, and academic traditions. Founded in 1441, King’s College holds a special place within this historic environment thanks to its rich intellectual heritage and significant contribution to academic life.

During the academic meetings, the Uzbek scholars delivered lectures dedicated to Uzbekistan’s rich cultural heritage and tourism potential.

Professor Nargis T. Nurulla-Khoja presented a lecture on the heritage of the Sogdians, particularly focusing on their cultural traditions, historical legacy, and social and ceremonial life.

Associate Professor Mastura Sidikova, in her lecture, highlighted the historical role of guzars and mahallas in the urban and social life of Samarkand. She emphasized the cultural, communal, and social significance of mahallas, as well as their place in the historical development of the city.

During the event, Gillian Tett, Provost of King’s College, expressed her satisfaction with hosting such lectures within the framework of the “Silk Road” program. She particularly emphasized the importance of continuing and strengthening academic and scientific cooperation between the institutions.

As part of the academic visit, Professor Nargis T. Nurulla-Khoja donated her book “Cultural Heritage in Tourism” to the Cambridge University Library. This publication is considered one of the first academic works produced by the International University in the field of “Silk Road” tourism and cultural heritage studies.

The visit became an important step in expanding the university’s international academic cooperation. It also contributed to introducing Uzbekistan’s rich historical and cultural heritage to the global academic community and opened promising opportunities for new collaborative projects in the fields of tourism, cultural heritage, and Silk Road studies.