From the international forum to practical cooperation: Training seminar organized for museum guides at the Islamic Civilization Center
The Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan hosted an international training seminar dedicated to enhancing the professional skills of its museum guides. The event featured Tatiana Emelianenko, a specialist from the Russian Ethnographic Museum in St. Petersburg, and Irina Osmanova, Curator of the Islam Collection at the State Museum of the History of Religion of Russia, both of whom visited Uzbekistan to participate in the First International Islamic Civilization Forum, held in Tashkent, Samarkand, and Termez from 7 to 11 July this year. The international experts shared their extensive experience in organizing museum tours, interpreting exhibitions from a scholarly perspective, engaging effectively with visitors, and presenting cultural heritage with accuracy, objectivity, and professional responsibility.
During the seminar, it was emphasized that a museum guide is not merely a source of information but also an important ambassador of dialogue who fosters mutual understanding among different peoples and cultures. Particular attention was given to the need for strict adherence to the principles of scholarly objectivity, sensitivity, and responsibility when interpreting historical events. It was noted that while distorted interpretations of history may lead to misunderstanding among nations, an accurate and impartial presentation of the past helps strengthen mutual respect, trust, and understanding.
“We discussed museum work and approaches to interpreting ethnographic exhibitions with the guides. In our museums, we do not simply display artifacts. We strive to reveal a people’s worldview, way of life, and cultural values through the history of each object, as well as through its patterns, colors, and forms,” said Tatiana Emelianenko.
The seminar was held in an atmosphere of lively discussion, practical exchange, and interactive question-and-answer sessions. Participants explored ways to further improve museum tours, enhance engagement with diverse categories of visitors, and develop modern approaches to museum communication.