Dear friends,
We dedicate this publication to Mr. Uwe Gartenschlaeger on the occasion of his 30th anniversary in DVV International!
He is currently the Director of the organization and also the President of the European Association for the Education of Adults (EAEA).
We are proud that Uwe Gartenschlaeger’s name is included into the International Adult and Continuing Education Hall of Fame, which was established by the University of Oklahoma to honor outstanding scholars, researchers, and practitioners who promote the values of adult and continuing education.
We are also proud that in 2002–2006 the regional office of DVV International, back then located in Tashkent , served under the leadership of Uwe Gartenschlaeger, and this became the foundation for the highly professional activities of DVV International in the region for many years.
Uwe has dedicated 30 years of his life to promote the ideas and practices of adult learning and education, supporting human rights, sustainable development and social justice – from Central Asia to Latin America, from Africa to Europe.
His work has always focused not only on disseminating knowledge, but also on expanding opportunities for those who, for various reasons, have found themselves on the outskirts of educational systems – women, migrants, people with disabilities, representatives of ethnic minorities.
"Education should not be a privilege, but the right for every person, regardless of age, social status or country of residence."
His contribution includes the launch and support of dozens of international projects , strengthening partnership networks , developing inclusive educational approaches, as well as the constant protection of the values of democracy, participation and intercultural dialogue.
DVV International has become an internationally recognized organization in the field of adult learning and education — thanks to his leadership.
Hundreds of thousands of people have received a chance for a more dignified, conscious and sustainable life thanks to his work.
Uwe remains not only the professional, but also an inspiring mentor who sees the potential in people and brings together those who believe in the power of adult learning and education as a tool for peace and change.
Dear Uwe,
In Uzbekistan, there is a well-known saying: "Whoever planted a tree, left a footprint."
But you, Uwe, did not just plant a tree — you laid out the entire garden!
Since 2002, when you opened the Regional Office of DVV International in Tashkent, you did not just start a project — you helped the country to speak about "adult learning and education" and "lifelong learning" for the first time.
Although more than 20 years have passed, these concepts are still with us — as well as your energy, humor and love for Uzbekistan .
30 years in DVV International — that's already extremely invaluable experience!
But for us, you remain the same Uwe, who knows how to not only talk about serious things, but also do it with a smile and a big heart.
Thank you for being a pioneer, an inspirer, a friend.
Uzbekistan remembers, appreciates and is always glad to see you again — not only as an expert, but also as a person who is truly loved here.
Our office and partners congratulate you and wish you: good health, inexhaustible energy, inspiration and new horizons!
May each new day bring
joy from what you have done,
warmth of recognition from colleagues around the world,
and belief that your contribution continues to change people's lives for the better!
With great respect, enormous gratitude and warm greetings —
Your colleagues from the office of DVV International Uzbekistan