General information about the higher education system in the country
The higher education system in Uzbekistan is composed of a range of institutions, scientific and pedagogical establishments engaged in research, and government bodies responsible for overseeing academic activities. It operates under the framework of the National Programme for Personnel Training, which emphasizes the importance of building on specialized secondary education (academic lyceums) and vocational education (vocational colleges). The system includes two key levels: bachelor’s degree and master’s degree programs. The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation (MHESI) manages the higher education system and is responsible for organizing the academic year, determining the length of semesters, examination schedules, and holidays. The two educational levels are structured as follows:
- Bachelor’s Program: This is the foundational higher education level, providing students with core knowledge in a specific branch of study. It typically lasts a minimum of four years. Graduates receive a Bakalavr degree, which qualifies them to either start their professional careers or continue to a Master’s program.
- Master’s Program: Building on the Bachelor’s degree, the Master’s level focuses on specialized fields and lasts at least two years. Graduates are awarded the Magister degree, enabling them to work in professional sectors or pursue further academic studies in postgraduate institutions.
A critical document shaping the higher education landscape is the Presidential Decree #UP-5847, dated October 8, 2019, which approved the Concept of Higher Education System Development of Uzbekistan until 2030. This decree outlines long-term reforms aimed at improving the quality of education, developing human capital in line with labor market demands, and driving sustainable social and economic growth.
One of the most significant priorities within these reforms is the expansion of higher education access. Over the past seven years, admission quotas for universities have tripled, with plans to increase the coverage of higher education to 50% of graduates from schools, lyceums, and colleges by 2030. Additionally, reforms have introduced opportunities for free higher education for specific groups, including children of military personnel, low-income families, and winners of various academic and sports competitions. These initiatives aim to make higher education more accessible to all segments of society.
In 2021, university autonomy became a central focus, with 35 state universities granted financial, academic, and administrative independence. This move, enacted by a Presidential Decree on December 24, 2021, marked a significant step toward decentralizing the higher education system and allowing institutions to operate with greater flexibility.
Furthermore, beginning in 2024, higher engineering schools were established within engineering universities as part of an effort to integrate scientific research, innovation, and practical application into the educational process. This initiative aims to enhance the commercialization of research, increase university revenue through patenting and innovation, and strengthen ties between academia, enterprises, and the broader industrial sector.
These reforms collectively aim to align Uzbekistan’s higher education system with international standards, promote innovation, and foster a competitive, modern educational environment that meets the needs of both students and the economy.
Over the past seven years (2017–2023), Uzbekistan has undergone sweeping reforms aimed at transforming its higher education system. These reforms, driven by the need to improve quality and increase the relevance of education, have also strengthened the country’s international cooperation, with the Erasmus+ Programme being a notable contributor to these efforts.
In response to recent global challenges, universities are playing an increasingly critical role in driving transformational changes in society. Uzbekistan has embraced this shift by implementing strategic initiatives focused on fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within its higher education system. A prime example is the country’s collaboration between universities and local tech companies to develop sustainable energy solutions, contributing to national goals for carbon reduction and environmental sustainability. These efforts are part of a broader agenda aimed at advancing technology, sustainability, and social responsibility, further underscoring the important role of universities in addressing global challenges.
Recent policy updates
At the heart of Uzbekistan’s educational reforms is the Concept for the Development of Higher Education until 2030. This comprehensive framework is designed to enhance the quality of education, integrate education with the social and economic sectors, and produce highly competitive professionals.
Several key strategic objectives are outlined within this vision, including the adoption of a phased credit modular system in higher education institutions. This shift will align educational standards with international benchmarks, ensuring that curricula are continuously updated to prioritize practical skills and knowledge transfer. The document also emphasizes the development of high-caliber professionals who can contribute to the sustainable development of various sectors within the economy and society.
The strategic initiatives of Uzbekistan’s higher education sector also include promoting academic autonomy, adopting the “University 3.0” model to integrate education, science, and innovation into commercial endeavours, and fostering an environment conducive to attracting foreign investments. Additionally, the establishment of technology parks, startup incubators, and accelerator centers within universities is envisioned, which will play a pivotal role in conducting research that contributes to regional and socio economic development.
Despite the progress, Uzbekistan’s higher education system faces several challenges that could hinder its ability to contribute fully to societal progress. One of the main challenges is the integration of the "third mission" of universities—social responsibility and community engagement. While recent reforms emphasize this integration, there remains a gap between university operations and the needs of society. Resource allocation is another challenge, as financial constraints and insufficient infrastructure may impede the implementation of innovative projects critical to fulfilling the third mission.
Bridging the gap between academia and industry is a continuing struggle. Despite government reforms promoting collaboration between these sectors, practical application remains a challenge, limiting the impact of research and the employability of graduates. Additionally, cultural and systemic inertia persists, with traditional views favouring academic research over entrepreneurial activities in many institutions.
The quality of education is another critical area of concern. With the rapid expansion of educational institutions, maintaining high standards remains a top priority. Recent policy changes have introduced stricter quality control measures, but the challenge of ensuring consistent educational quality across a growing number of institutions persists. Equally important is addressing issues of equity and access to higher education, particularly for vulnerable groups and those in remote areas. Uzbekistan’s Digital 2030 strategy aims to bridge this gap through improved digital infrastructure, but regional disparities in access to education still exist.
In response to these challenges, Uzbekistan is making continuous efforts to foster a more active, innovative, and socially responsible academic community. The recent reforms reflect a commitment to aligning the nation’s higher education system with global standards, enhancing research output, and fostering international collaboration. These initiatives are expected to significantly improve the quality and impact of higher education in the country.
As of today, Uzbekistan boasts 220 higher education institutions, including 160 local universities and 30 foreign branches. Over the past three years, the establishment of six new local universities, 17 branches, and 14 foreign university branches has further diversified the country’s academic landscape. Responding to the needs of employers, 329 new educational specialties and 582 master’s degree programs have been incorporated into the Classifier of Higher Education, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to meet labor market demands.
In conclusion, the recent reforms and strategic initiatives underscore the pivotal role of universities in not only educating students but also addressing global societal challenges. Uzbekistan’s higher education system is evolving to become a catalyst for innovation, economic development, and social progress, helping to shape a future that is sustainable, equitable, and globally competitive.
2025 HERE Annual Work Plan priorities:
- Research-based education related to Greening
Engineering education reform
Financing and university governance models for HE
Information about relevant projects and initiatives
N | Objectives | Length of project | Keywords | Links | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | MechaUz: Modernization of Mechatronics and Robotics for Bachelor degree in Uzbekistan through Innovative Ideas and Digital Technology | Development of the undergraduate program of Mechatronics and robotics based on national priorities and on the basis of the education-qualification- innovation cycle in higher education through innovative ideas and digital technologies. | 15/11/2019- 14/11/2023 | Mechatronics, robotics, Innovative Ideas and Digital Technologies | |
| 2 | Modernisation of Higher Education in Central Asia through New Technologies (HiEdTec) | To adapt the education system in the PCs to the digital generation through the introduction and effective implementation of ICT-based innovative educational technologies and didactic models in the teaching process; enhance the international dimension of education and training through strengthened links between the EU and PCs universities, exchange of expertise and good practices in the areas of digital pedagogies and IET. | 15/11/2018-14/11/2022 | digital generation, innovative education technologies | https://hiedtec.ecs.uni-ruse.bg /ru/?cmd=gsIndex |
| 3 | DECIDE: Developing Services for Individuals with Disabilities | To foster the right of individuals with special needs in Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Kazakhstan to access education and enjoy the right of participation in everyday society. | 15/11/2018-14/11/202 | The right of individuals with special needs, Rights of Persons with Disabilities, disability access, advanced Curriculum modules, competencies and skills | https://decideproject.ie/about |
4 | British Council | The quality of education and its relevance to the needs of the growing market, more holistic approaches to reform, widening access to education opportunities, teacher education as well as English language teaching and learning. | Since October 1996 | Quality of education, University Governance, inclusive higher education, English language teaching and learning | |
5 | World Bank | to strengthen the Recipient’s higher education system managerial capacity, and to improve bot h the labor market relevance and the learning environment of selected higher education institutions | since 2016 | Strengthening Higher Education Management | http://projects.worldbank.org/P128516?lang=en |
Relevant links
- Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Innovations (MHESI): Comprehensive information on international collaborations, programs, and partnerships can be found on the MHESI website https://gov.uz
/en/edu - Erasmus+ Programme: Detailed descriptions of Uzbekistan’s participation in the Erasmus+ Programme, which supports educational exchange and cooperation with European institutions, can be accessed here https://erasmus.uz/en
- National Database of Legislation of the Republic of Uzbekistan: This resource provides access to legal frameworks governing education and international collaboration. Visit Lex.uz for more information https://lex.uz/en/
- UNESCO: Information about Uzbekistan’s educational policies and their alignment with international standards can be found on the UNESCO website, particularly regarding educational development initiatives. More details are available at https://www.unesco.org/en