IsDB, Government, and UNICEF Partnership Drives Education Reform in Uzbekistan

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The President of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser, during his first visit to Uzbekistan, reviewed innovations in professional development for preschool educators.

The visit was part of a strategic partnership between IsDB, the Ministry of Preschool and School Education (MPSE), and UNICEF aimed at strengthening Uzbekistan’s education sector.

Dr. Al Jasser toured the Institute for Retraining and Professional Development of preschool directors and specialists, established within a multimillion-dollar investment initiative. Minister of Preschool and School Education E’zozkhon Karimova emphasized: “By investing in teachers, we invest in the future of every child.”

The visit highlighted IsDB’s support for the project “Expanding Access to Quality Preschool Education in Uzbekistan.” Valued at US$2.3 million, the project includes the establishment of eleven regional training centers, the launch of the first AI-powered multimedia studio in Tashkent, and the development of an enhanced teacher training program.

Dr. Al Jasser stressed the significance of the initiative: “Modern tools unlock teachers’ potential, while the innovative curriculum reshapes how a whole generation of children learns. By investing in youth, Uzbekistan is paving the way for long-term prosperity. IsDB is proud to partner in this vital endeavor, reaffirming our commitment to sustainable development and education reform.”

Beyond preschool education, the tripartite partnership is implementing SmartED — the largest single investment in Uzbekistan’s education sector, worth US$220 million. Within this framework, MPSE and UNICEF signed agreements totaling US$19.2 million for piloting inclusive education models, modernizing the national curriculum and assessment system, and enhancing quality assurance mechanisms. The overarching goal is to build an innovative, equitable, and internationally aligned education system.

Regina Castillo, UNICEF Representative in Uzbekistan, underlined the strategic importance of IsDB’s investment: “Early childhood education yields enormous returns, and curriculum reform is critical to creating a relevant and sustainable education system.” She emphasized that quality early education is particularly vital for vulnerable children, helping secure better educational and income outcomes while reducing risks of social disadvantage.

For IsDB, such initiatives are fully aligned with its Country Partnership Strategy 2022–2026, which prioritizes human capital development to ensure sustainable and resilient growth.