Irina Staroselskaya: Russian education is in demand across Central Asia
Irina Staroselskaya, Head of the Representative Office of Rossotrudnichestvo in Uzbekistan, held a press conference at the Sputnik Uzbekistan multimedia press center. It focused on the international educational exhibition-fair “Russian Education. Tashkent 2026”.
During the meeting, Staroselskaya spoke about opportunities for Uzbekistan citizens to access education in Russia and the quotas set aside for this.
She stated that, as part of the quota campaign for the 2026/27 academic year, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation of Uzbekistan requested 810 places. The Russian side approved the request entirely.
“Students from Uzbekistan are very talented”, said Ms. Staroselskaya. “Universities that admit these young people report that the experience has been very positive. They are hardworking, eager to study, and keen to acquire new knowledge”.
She emphasized that one of the main goals of the quota program is to train specialists who, after completing their education, can return home and apply the skills they have acquired for the benefit of their country.
Speaking about the demand for Russian education in Central Asian countries, Ms. Staroselskaya highlighted the role of the Russian language and the historical and cultural ties among the countries of the region:
“As practice shows, the Russian language and Russian education remain in demand in Central Asia. We share common roots and feel close to one another. This closeness broadens graduates’ employment opportunities. By receiving an international education, young people have greater opportunities to build successful careers not only in Uzbekistan but also abroad. Knowledge of the language is also an advantage when seeking a good, well-paid, and interesting job. Our graduates can continue their studies at any other university in the world. At the same time, Russian education provides the fundamental knowledge that enables continued development”.
It should be noted that the international educational exhibition-fair “Russian Education. Tashkent 2026” will be held on September 25-26 at the MGIMO branch in Tashkent. This year, the event will be held for the sixth time and will bring together more than 40 universities. Their representatives will provide prospective students with information on educational programs, admission requirements, and opportunities to pursue higher education in the Russian Federation.
Aziza Alimova, UzA
