JICA and UJICY Expand Cooperation to Strengthen the Scientific and Innovative Potential of Youth

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 18 December, a visit took place at the Uzbek-Japanese Innovation Youth Center (UJICY), during which the implementation of a joint project with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) was presented. The project aims to strengthen the institutional capacity of the center and ensure its sustainable development.

The first phase of the project, completed in 2024, laid a solid foundation for UJICY’s institutional development, expanded international cooperation, and enhanced its research capabilities.

Building on these results, the second phase of the project has been initiated, focusing on further strengthening the center’s capacities and ensuring its long-term sustainability.

The second phase includes a comprehensive set of measures, such as attracting short-term and long-term experts from Japan, implementing professional development and training programs for UJICY staff, and organizing both short-term and long-term training opportunities in Japan for young specialists.

A key element of the initiative is the establishment of a research fund for young scientists, aimed at developing their research potential and promoting applied research.

Additionally, the project supports the expansion of UJICY’s cooperation with leading universities and research institutions in Japan.

In parallel, JICA, in collaboration with the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) and UJICY, is implementing the SATREPS Hydrogen project, focused on developing innovative technologies for the efficient production of green and blue hydrogen.

The project involves Kyushu University, Waseda University, and leading research institutions in Uzbekistan.

Within the framework of SATREPS Hydrogen, opportunities are being explored for hydrogen production using local energy resources, sustainable and advanced technological solutions are being developed, and a new generation of scientists and engineers is being trained.

The implementation of this initiative contributes to Uzbekistan’s strategic transition to clean energy and the development of a hydrogen-based economy.

UJICY and JICA reaffirmed their intention to continue strengthening international cooperation, developing research infrastructure, and supporting the training of highly qualified specialists in science and technology, thereby creating new opportunities for youth and the scientific community in Uzbekistan.