Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) - The Ministry of Public Education of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Uzeltehsanoat Association and the Chinese company Weidong Cloud Education have signed an agreement on organizing the production of computer equipment for the introduction of an e-learning system.

The signing ceremony was held on 11 May 2020 in a video conference format. The document was signed by the Minister of Public Education of Uzbekistan Sherzod Shermatov, Chairman of the Board of the Uzeltehsanoat Association Mirziyod Yunusov and Executive Director of Weidong Cloud Education Wang Zhiqian.

The document was signed in order to develop and improve the quality, as well as the effectiveness of the education system in the field of public education in Uzbekistan through the exchange of experience, the introduction of technology and e-learning system.

The parties agreed to implement a project for the production of computer equipment and other auxiliary equipment for smart classes. It is expected that the production of computer equipment (computers, laptops, etc.) with localization will be launched before the end of 2020.

Weidong Cloud Education plans to invest US$4 million in direct investments for this project for the release of smart classes, which will create 80 new jobs.

The Chinese side also intends to raise funds to provide computer equipment based on leasing at a preferential interest rate.

As part of the agreement, Weidong Cloud Education will also provide a smart class for secondary school No. 241 in Tashkent.

The Minister of Public Education of Uzbekistan Sherzod Shermatov noted: “In the situation with the introduction of quarantine in connection with the coronavirus pandemic, Uzbekistan has also switched to online education. In this situation, more and more teachers and young people will begin to use computers for education. The introduction of smart classes will also help improve the quality of education in our schools.”

Weidong Cloud Education Executive Director Wang Jichian emphasized: “Weidong Cloud Education has extensive experience working with ministries of education. Under this agreement, the Uzbek side will gain access not only to modern solutions, but also to modern educational platforms. This project is the first step in the development of bilateral relations for the development and support of education.”

It should be noted that the Ministry of Public Education of Uzbekistan and alifshop.uz launched a joint pilot project in February to provide electronic devices, including tablets and laptops, in installments on preferential terms for teachers.