From amateur to "golden fund": Uzbekistan to introduce categories for tour guides
From novice to "golden fund." Uzbekistan to introduce categories for tour guides
Starting December 1, tour guides and guide-interpreters in Uzbekistan will be able to obtain qualification categories on a voluntary basis. These will be awarded based on the results of a professional exam, taking into account knowledge, practical skills, and the ability to work with tourists.
The procedure has been established by a resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers. The categories will be awarded by the Scientific Research Institute for Tourism Development under the Tourism Committee.
The categorization is voluntary. Its absence will not deprive a guide of the right to work, provided they hold a valid qualification certificate obtained in accordance with the established procedure. The certificate is valid indefinitely.
The specialist's level will be determined based on the results of a professional exam. The assessment will take into account professional knowledge and practical skills, the ability to organize and conduct an excursion, knowledge of tourist sites, communication culture with tourists, foreign language proficiency, and adherence to professional ethics.
The system includes four categories: "amateur guide," "specialized guide," "professional guide," and "golden fund guide." Passing scores have been set for three levels: amateur — from 56% to 70%, specialized — from 70% to 85%, and professional guide — from 86% to 100%. No separate threshold is specified for the highest category, "golden fund guide."
A separate rule is provided for those who have taken a long break from the profession. If a guide has not worked for more than two years, they will have to retake the exam.
The same document approves a list of the country's main tourist sites, excursions to which will be conducted based on a single approved text.
Earlier, Uzbekistan ranked first in the region in terms of tourism development pace. This data is contained in a report by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), where Central Asia as a whole was recognized as the fastest-growing tourist destination in the world.