Celebrating the recent success of Sirojiddin Olimov, a Moray House School of Education and Sport alumnus who received the Culture and Creativity award at the 2025 Uzbekistan British Council Study UK Alumni Awards. Alumni achievementInspiring global achievement, Sirojiddin Olimov, an alumnus of Moray House School of Education and Sport at the University of Edinburgh, has been honoured with the prestigious Culture and Creativity Award at the 2025 Uzbekistan British Council Study UK Alumni Awards. These awards celebrate the remarkable contributions of UK alums worldwide, highlighting the ability education and studying abroad has to create positive change. This award is a reminder of the power of education to create change. It acknowledges the efforts of those who work to bridge cultures, promote literature and inspire the next generation. It is also a celebration of the values that the University of Edinburgh instilled in me —curiosity, perseverance and a global perspective. Winning this award strengthens my belief that ideas nurtured in an academic setting can lead to meaningful real-world impact. Sirojiddin Olimov Moray House Alumnus Olimov studied on the Comparative Education and International Development (CEID) Masters programme, where he was part of a community that encourages critical thinking, innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration. These experiences supported his vision and led to the launch of Mutolaa, the leading platform for audiobooks and eBooks in Central Asia. Olimov, CEO of Mutolaa, has been influential in promoting Uzbek literature and education through the platform, which has reached over one million users and aims to connect global ideas with local culture.Recognising positive changeThe British Council's Alumni Awards are now in their 11th year, celebrating the extraordinary accomplishments of international alumni who have used their UK education to make positive changes within their communities and industries. While discussing his experience, Olimnov expressed his gratitude for the recognition: "Receiving the UK Study Alumni Award is an incredible honour. It represents not just a personal achievement but also a recognition of the impact of my work in education and literature. Studying in the UK, particularly at the University of Edinburgh, played a transformative role in shaping my vision and leadership. This award reinforces my commitment to the global expansion of Uzbek literature and education opportunities." ‘Use your knowledge to make a difference in the world’Olimov’s work demonstrates the power of education to connect cultures and inspire the next generation. He aims to launch innovative AI solutions for audiobook creation and translate Uzbek literature into multiple languages, ensuring that the richness of Uzbek storytelling reaches a broader audience.Olimov shares advice and encouraging words for students and graduates: "Embrace challenges as opportunities to grow, and don’t be afraid to think beyond borders. Whether you are pursuing academia, entrepreneurship, or social impact, your time at university is a foundation for bigger things. Stay curious, be bold, and most importantly, use your knowledge to make a difference in the world”.This award not only celebrates Sirojiddin Olimov’s achievements but also highlights the impact of higher education on alumni and their capacity to make meaningful changes around the world. Sirojiddin Olimov with the Culture and Creativity award at the 2025 Uzbekistan British Council Study UK Alumni Award Related information: Comparative Education and International Development (CEID)Uzbekistan British Council StudyMutolaaDevelopment and Alumni Tags Alumni Awards and funding Technology and AI Publication date 02 May, 2025
