Uzbekistan and UK Expert Discuss 2026–2030 Education Reforms

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan's Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovations hosted a meeting on 3 September 2026 with Jonathan Slater, an international expert on public administration and educational reform, alongside representatives from the Ministry of Preschool and School Education.

Slater, a former permanent secretary of the UK Department for Education with over 35 years of experience in public governance and educational reform, currently serves as a consultant on public administration and administrative reforms to Suma Chakrabarti, advisor to the President of Uzbekistan.

During the meeting, officials presented information on ongoing transformations in Uzbekistan's education sector aimed at improving system quality and efficiency, implementing international standards, and advancing innovative capacity.

Participants highlighted the growth in higher education coverage among the population, the acceleration of international accreditation for educational programs, and measures strengthening the country's innovation potential. It was also noted that Uzbekistan ranked 79th in the Global Innovation Index, maintaining its leading position among Central Asian nations.

The parties paid special attention to ensuring continuity between preschool, school, and higher education. In particular, discussions focused on introducing a continuous vocational guidance system spanning from preschool education through the completion of the ninth grade.

According to meeting participants, developing such a system is important for preparing young people for future professional activities and helping them define educational and career goals earlier.

A major topic centered on priority tasks for developing the education system for 2026–2030 and prospective directions for international cooperation. The parties discussed improving quality assurance mechanisms, developing accreditation systems based on advanced international experience, and enhancing the global competitiveness of Uzbekistan's higher education institutions.

Additionally, participants considered opportunities to further attract foreign students to Uzbek universities and elevate the country's standing in the international educational space. The prospect of opening branches of leading global higher education institutions in Uzbekistan was also specifically discussed.

Meeting participants emphasized the importance of studying international experience and adapting advanced approaches to the national education system, noting the need for continued cooperation to enhance educational quality and administrative efficiency.

The meeting concluded with an exchange of views and proposals to strengthen cooperation across priority areas, further refine the education system, and execute long-term objectives.