Uzbekistan Plans 58 Modern Schools to Create 72,000 Student Spots by 2030
Uzbekistan to Construct 58 Modern Schools by 2029
Uzbekistan’s government has announced plans to build at least 58 modern schools between 2025 and 2029 as part of a new initiative aimed at enhancing the quality and efficiency of education in the country. This initiative is backed by a substantial funding package totaling $200.25 million from the Islamic Development Bank, the Islamic Solidarity Fund for Development, and the Global Partnership for Education.
Addressing Overcrowding and Inclusive Education
The primary goal of the project is to alleviate classroom overcrowding by constructing new educational facilities that meet contemporary standards, creating over 72,000 additional student places. Notably, the initiative will provide inclusive education opportunities for at least 500 students with disabilities.
The number and capacity of the schools may be adjusted based on input from regional authorities, including the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Karakalpakstan and the city of Tashkent.
Aligning with International Standards
The presidential resolution also emphasizes the importance of aligning national educational standards and curricula with global requirements. Plans include the introduction of competency-based teaching principles and the organization of laboratory classes in accordance with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) standards. Furthermore, the professional development of 36,000 educators will be facilitated through a blended learning model, fostering modern teaching methodologies.
Land Allocation for New Schools
To begin construction, the resolution mandates that regional administrations, including the Council of Ministers of Karakalpakstan and the Tashkent city administration, work in collaboration with relevant governmental bodies to identify suitable land plots for the new schools. These locations must feature existing infrastructure and be allocated permanently to the regional bodies of the Ministry of Preschool and School Education.
Selection criteria for land include:
- High Population Density: Areas with significant demand for school enrollment.
- Infrastructure Availability: Access to essential services such as electricity, potable water, gas, roads, and sewage systems.
- Social Infrastructure Development: Land designated for educational use.
Relevant organizations, such as Regional Power Grids and Uzbektelecom, will manage the relocation of utility lines and installation of essential services using local budget funds.
Current State of Education in Uzbekistan
Education has become a national priority in Uzbekistan, with substantial investments leading to the construction and renovation of over 5,000 schools in recent years, including 608 in 2024 alone. The initiative also aims to expand opportunities for students, allowing them to learn a second foreign language and receive vocational training, and for the first time, inclusive education has been introduced in 530 schools.
Since March 2024, the total number of schools has increased by 660, bringing the national total to include 14 presidential schools, 9 schools of creativity, and 182 specialized institutions, with their systems being adopted by 1,500 general education schools. An international school is expected to commence operations in Uzbekistan in September 2025, further diversifying educational offerings.
This initiative signals a robust commitment by the Uzbekistan government to improve educational infrastructure and learning opportunities for its youth, laying a strong foundation for the nation’s future.
