
Expansion of Technical Universities in Uzbekistan: Nukus, Bukhara, Fergana, and Namangan to Host New Institutions

The Uzbek government is taking significant steps to revamp its higher education and science sectors with the establishment of 22 technical universities and 17 engineering schools by the end of this year. This ambitious initiative, part of a plan to consolidate 35 institutions in the field, was unveiled during a presentation on priority tasks in higher education and science reviewed by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on January 22.
The plan also includes improving over 1,000 educational programs this year based on the programs of top international universities, with 45 programs undergoing international accreditation. To support students, universities will fully integrate Registrar Offices to offer comprehensive services. Additionally, 50,000 students will participate in dual education programs to bridge the gap between education and practice.
The ultimate goal is to boost the scientific potential in higher education to 55%, with intentions to train 5,000 teachers abroad. The number of advanced engineering schools will increase to 25, and projects with industrial enterprises will see a tenfold increase in value.
In order to enhance the connection between education and practice, the government is implementing dual education programs where students are assigned to enterprises. However, more incentives are needed to encourage companies to participate in this program.
President Mirziyoyev has set a goal to establish technical universities and advanced engineering schools in each region. So far, technical universities have been opened in Termez, Andijan, and Karshi, with eight engineering schools also established.
The government is moving forward with projects to establish technical universities in Nukus, Bukhara, Fergana, and Namangan. New disciplines will be introduced, foreign curricula will be implemented, students’ involvement in scientific and innovative processes will be expanded, and partnerships with industries will be strengthened.
Overall, the plan is to establish 22 technical universities by consolidating institutions in the field and open 17 additional engineering schools by the end of the year. The government aims to increase the scientific potential of higher education institutions from 41% to 45% and prioritize key economic sectors in allocating doctoral quotas.
Efforts are also underway to improve the procedures for obtaining academic degrees and titles, and to elevate the professional skills of educators. The government is committed to modernizing higher education and science to align with industry trends and boost the country’s workforce.