AUCA students at Transit Center Manas

November 29, 2011

On November 23^rd fifteen lucky students had a chance to go on a company tour of the Transit Center Manas. This was not the first time AUCA visited the transit center, and as usual, many more students were eager to go then the trip could accommodate.

It began on an early grey morning with a long drive to the center.  Having listened to the presentation of the transit center’s mission, the students excitedly set off on the tour. The impressive airplanes were the first point of destination and students got to wander inside and even sit in the pilot’s seat. “Honestly, I don’t think that even American citizens have an opportunity to talk with US Army or take photos sitting in the aircrafts,” said Bekbolot Kabylov after the tour.

Following a brief photo session in front of the planes, students were taken to see the bomb squat unit. Not only did they see the work of the fancy equipment, but they were also allowed to try it themselves. Vassiliy Lakhonin "was impressed with the transparency of that center in terms of allowing young civilians to witness strategic objects. Besides, they demonstrated their concern with the students’ perception of their activities, making some clarifications, and emphasizing their public affairs perspectives. Good for them!"

The tour ended with an array of American snacks and drinks, leaving everyone happy and satisfied! Students found this tour not only fun and nutritional, but also educational. At the end of the visit, Asem Asfandiarova shared, “the Visit to Manas Transit Center was fabulous! It was interesting to learn some of the operational details of the war in Afghanistan, and gain a perspective about the Transit Center different from the political statements we hear in the Kyrgyz media. I realized how much actual benefit the airbase brings to the Kyrgyzstan's economy and society.”

The visit was organized with the collaboration of the Transit Center Manas and AUCA’s Advising and Career Services office. We hope for many similar visits in the future!

<< go to news list