At a videoconference dedicated to the implementation of reforms in the education sector and future priorities, the Head of State reviewed not only the achievements made in this area but also highlighted existing problems. He also outlined a roadmap aimed at advancing the sector with specific proposals and recommendations.

As emphasized, the prosperity of the country, the growth of the economy, and the future of our nation and children depend entirely on education and teachers. For this reason, extensive efforts have been made to provide teachers with decent working conditions, build and equip preschools and schools, attract foreign specialists, and introduce modern teaching methods and curricula. This process continues without interruption. Notably, as a result of reforms, our students have won 195 medals at international science Olympiads since the beginning of this year. Accordingly, they will receive a total of 10 billion UZS in increased stipends, while their mentor teachers will be awarded 3.5 billion UZS in bonuses. Additionally, in more than 1,000 general education schools where foreign language specialists have been engaged, the number of students obtaining language certificates has increased by 2.5 times in just one year.

The President noted that while changes are taking place in preschool and general education, officials responsible for vocational and higher education still do not fully grasp the essence of the ongoing reforms. Currently, there are 598 technical schools in the country, with the capacity to admit 450,000 students. This represents a significant resource and opportunity for young people. However, according to the analysis, although 608,000 students graduated from the 9th grade this year, only 182,000 of them enrolled in technical schools. The Head of State emphasized that, in order to address these issues, the coming year will be declared a Year of Vocational Training for Youth.

So, how will this be achieved? How will students be trained in vocational skills? On the recommendation of the Head of State, officials, together with regional and district governors, will introduce a modern, internationally standardized environment for vocational training this year in all 598 technical schools, drawing on the experience gained at the Presidential and specialized schools. Regional and district governors have been instructed to ensure that in the next academic year, at least 50 percent of 9th-grade graduates, an additional 200,000 students beyond the current figure, are enrolled in technical schools. To coordinate these efforts under a unified policy, a Vocational Education Agency will be established. These measures are expected to both resolve existing issues in vocational training and encourage young people to engage in productive work, making more meaningful use of their time.

As you are aware, starting this year, admission quotas for higher education institutions have been established based on labor demand generated by investment projects. Special attention will also be given to targeted training in technical schools, in line with investor requests. Specifically, technical school curricula may be modified by up to 30 percent in response to investor demands, which will make a significant contribution to increasing future employment opportunities. Additionally, enterprises that introduce dual education programs in partnership with technical schools will be eligible for preferential loans. Together with the Vocational Education Agency, sectoral enterprises will develop standards and requirements tailored to the professions needed in their industries. This will not only ensure growth in the sector but also open an entirely new stage in vocational training for young people.

In short, there are no obstacles to the development of education. On the contrary, there are broad opportunities, privileges, and favorable conditions. What is needed is to make effective use of them and to work with dedication for the prosperity of society, the future of youth, and the advancement of education. We, as representatives of the people – deputies and active party members – will intensify our efforts in this direction, focusing on further improving the education system and its legal foundations, as well as organizing our work on youth employment based on new approaches. Our goal is to contribute to the prosperity of our country and to the bright future of our young generation.

Muqaddaskhon AKHMEDOVA,

Member of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis,

Member of the UzLiDeP Faction