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UCA Football Tournament Promotes Unity and Friendship in Naryn

Community Engagement Kyrgyzstan
3 October 2023

The University of Central Asia (UCA) is actively involved in a wide range of initiatives aimed at enhancing its engagement with the communities of Naryn and Khorog, the two towns that host UCA’s campuses, and contributing to their social and economic development. These initiatives encompass a variety of activities, including English language classes for youth in villages, mobile libraries, health fairs, clean-up campaigns, various sports tournaments, and the creation of public spaces like small parks and playgrounds.

Another such cherished tradition in Naryn is the annual UCA Football Tournament that UCA has been organising annually since 2016 on the eve of the Kyrgyz Independence Day, 31 August. The Naryn Oblast Football Association is a partner in organising this event, designed to foster harmony, friendship, and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle. The event brought together Naryn residents from all walks of life. At the end of the tournament, prizes were awarded for the top three teams. Individual awards were also given for the best player, best goalkeeper, best defender, best striker, and top scorer.

Football

Naryn community team in action on the UCA Campus football field.

“This competition is a testament to UCA’s dedication to its core values and its mission to make a positive impact on society. As this event celebrates the Kyrgyz Republic's Independence Day, it holds a special place in the hearts of all involved,” said Elnura Asangazy kyzy, Vice-Mayor of Naryn in her address at the Prize-Giving Ceremony of the Tournament.

Kuban Chymyldakov, Director of Naryn Oblast Sports Department, expressed his gratitude, stating, "This annual competition, initiated by UCA in collaboration with the Naryn Town Sports Administration, brings us all together…On behalf of our leadership, I want to express our heartfelt gratitude to UCA for their initiative and support."