Central Asia

To protect the privacy of students in Central Asia, we have changed their names and do not disclose the specific country which they are from. Overall, we would like to give you a glimpse into each of the three countries with Global Leaders.

Kyrgyzstan
Population: 5.4 million
Pobeda, "Victory Peak," is just one of the many incredible mountains that cover the country of Kyrgyzstan. It is close to the size of South Dakota and more than 40 percent of the country is above 9,900 feet. After Kyrgyzstan became independent from the Soviet Union in 1991, the rural population began to grow. There are 5.4 million people and about one-third of them live outside of cities. Most students receive an education until age 17, but only qualified students may attend college or technical school. More than 80 percent of the population practices at least some Muslim traditions.

Kazakhstan
Population: 15 million
More than four times the size of Texas, Kazakhstan has a variety of scenery. This beautiful country has been an independent democracy since the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1991. Many Kazakhs have returned to their country since then and the majority of the population, more than 15 million people, live in major cities. In most communities, students attend school in a one-room school six days a week from ages 6 to 18. University education is available for students, primarily in cities. The population is split between following Islam traditions and belonging to the Russian Orthodox Church, but religion does not play a significant role in Kazakhs' daily lives.

Uzbekistan
Population: 27.7 million
This country is about the size of California and experiences the extremes of hot, dry summers, and rigid winters. Uzbek is the native language of this country, but Russian is used often in business. Children begin school at the age of 7 and continue until the age of 19. Although university educations are encouraged, the barriers for most students are incredibly high. Almost 90 percent of the population is Muslim, however, the government works hard to maintain control of religion in general.