Central Asian International Education Forum kicks off in Tashkent
The international forum brought together representatives from more than 40 countries, including education and science ministers, nearly 500 domestic and foreign university leaders, and over 1,000 experts.
President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s address to the forum participants was read out at the opening ceremony. This was announced by Sherzod Asadov, Head of the Communications Department of the Presidential Administration of the Republic of Uzbekistan – Press Secretary to the President.
In his message, the Head of State emphasized that mutual trust, good-neighborly relations, and partnership among Central Asian countries are strengthening.
The region’s greatest asset, home to nearly 85 million people, is its younger generation eager to acquire knowledge.
“High-quality, modern education and upbringing are the most effective way to turn this enormous demographic potential into a powerful intellectual force”, the address states.
President Shavkat Mirziyoyev said that education reform is now a state policy priority in Uzbekistan.
Recently, preschool and school education, vocational and higher education, and science were brought under a unified management system. The aim is to ensure continuity at every stage of education – from a child’s earliest learning experiences to becoming a highly qualified specialist or scientist.
The address stresses that education should equip young people to think independently, develop creativity, and continue learning throughout their lives.
Key priorities included strengthening the role of teachers and mentors, improving cooperation among schools, technical colleges, universities, and industry, and expanding opportunities, particularly for girls, children in remote areas, and young people with special educational needs.
The President called for advancing artificial intelligence and modern engineering, expanding joint university programs and research, and providing greater support for student and researcher exchanges.
The Head of State emphasized that turning Central Asia into a shared intellectual space, uniting science, education, advanced technologies, and innovation, is a strategic goal. He said the forum would put forward practical proposals to advance it.
UzA
