On October 24, 2024, the faculty members of the department of public health and medical statistics alongside second-year students and the curatorial groups from the first and tenth years of the faculty of preventive medicine, attended the 12^th International Exhibition "Book of Dushanbe" at the National Museum of Tajikistan. Since 2010, by decree of the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan, the "Book of Dushanbe" exhibition has been held annually as a significant initiative to promote books and strengthen cultural ties with both local and international publishers.

This year's exhibition featured esteemed publishers from the Russian Federation, the People's Republic of China, the Islamic Republic of Iran, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and India, showcasing some of the finest publications from these countries. Additionally, Hamid Muhaqqiq, a representative of Iran's "House of Books and Literature" announced that newly published works of poetry and prose, featuring contributions from both contemporary and classical poets, were presented at the exhibition.

Organizing a book exhibition serves as a significant cultural convergence, fostering close interaction with publishers from Tajikistan and abroad and facilitating mutual knowledge exchange. The Republic of Tajikistan has participated in numerous prestigious book fairs in the Islamic Republic of Iran, where renowned works by Tajik poets and writers were showcased. This year, over 40 publishing houses displayed more than 5,000 newly published titles, covering genres such as fiction, children’s literature, scientific works, historical studies, philosophy, cultural analysis, and social studies, attracting a broad audience of book enthusiasts.

The exhibition aims to showcase literary works, strengthen and expand Tajikistan's cultural connections globally, and promote a culture of reading within society.

In Tajikistan, a nationwide initiative led by the Head of state annually hosts the republic-wide competition "The Dawn of Wisdom is a Book" to promote a culture of reading across all societal sectors. This event engages not only students across various educational levels but also citizens of all ages, encouraging broad participation. As articulated by the Leader of the nation on Knowledge Day, September 1, 2019: "Dear youth, remember always that our ancestors, the Tajik people, throughout the course of history, upheld literacy, revered books and the written word, and advanced science and knowledge. They were the architects of one of the world’s ancient civilizations, skilled in urban planning and city-building".Today, the National Museum of Tajikistan hosted the closing ceremony of the 12^th International “Book of Dushanbe” exhibition, where publishers were awarded Diplomas and Certificates of Honor in recognition of their active contributions.

Department of healthcare and public health statistics with a focus on the history of medicine

translated by Ismoilov R.