Uzbekistan Announces Income Tax Exemption for Science Olympiad Winners starting 2025
Starting from January 1, 2025, students in Uzbekistan who excel in science Olympiads will receive a special privilege – exemption from paying income tax on any monetary awards and prizes they receive. This exciting new initiative extends to not only the students but also their teachers and team leaders, demonstrating the government’s commitment to promoting academic excellence in the country.
The decision to implement this tax exemption was made under a presidential decree announced by the Ministry of Justice. Winners of science Olympiads at the regional, national, and international levels will benefit from this tax relief. Additionally, team leaders involved in prestigious international competitions will receive performance-based incentives as well.
To further support and enhance the development of science Olympiads in Uzbekistan, a new electronic platform will be launched by December 1, 2025. This platform will facilitate the registration of participants, maintain statistical data on local and international Olympiads, and even organize online competitions. Information about international Olympiads named after renowned scholars will be provided, enabling both local and foreign students to register for these events.
A Science Olympiads Center will also be established under the Agency of Specialized Educational Institutions of Uzbekistan. This center will focus on identifying and nurturing talented students with a passion for scientific subjects from grades 5 to 8. Its mission will include creating a database of high-achievers, preparing students for international Olympiads, and developing subject-specific curricula and educational materials.
Teachers and coaches involved in preparing students for Olympiads will benefit from professional development opportunities, including training in new methodologies. Joint training camps with foreign national teams, seminars, motivational training sessions, and intellectual camps for talented youth will also be organized to provide students with the necessary support for international competitions.
This initiative was first announced by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev during a meeting with teachers and educators on September 30. As part of this initiative, the number of international science Olympiads recognized by the government will increase from 18 to 22. Under the revamped reward scheme, students who earn a gold medal in an international Olympiad will receive 170 million UZS, while silver and bronze medalists will be awarded 102 million and 68 million UZS, respectively. Teachers of these students will receive bonuses ranging from 50 million to 150 million UZS, along with a 100% salary supplement for one year. A reward system for team leaders of first-time international Olympiad winners will also be introduced.
Overall, these initiatives aim to incentivize and recognize the achievements of students, teachers, and team leaders in the field of science Olympiads, fostering a culture of academic excellence in Uzbekistan.
