Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — The 2026/2027 academic year officially began across all general education institutions in Uzbekistan on 2 September 2026, coinciding with national celebrations marking the 35th anniversary of state independence.
More than 795,000 first-grade students entered school for the first time this academic year. As part of the traditional "President's Gift" campaign, each first-grader is receiving a set containing 12 essential school supply items.
For the new school year, Uzbekistan's educational infrastructure encompasses 10,225 general education schools. Over 550,000 teachers will educate and instruct more than 6.7 million schoolchildren nationwide.
Minister of Preschool and School Education Ezoza Karimova addressed students, teachers, and parents with congratulations on Knowledge Day and the start of the new academic term. In her message, Karimova offered special greetings to children entering school for the first time and praised the dedication of parents and educators.
Karimova highlighted ongoing state focus on developing the education system, raising the status and authority of teachers in society, and creating conditions for children to acquire modern knowledge and professional skills. She noted that schools are being modernized and contemporary educational approaches are being implemented to open new opportunities for the younger generation.
The minister also emphasized the achievements of Uzbek pupils in international academic olympiads, competitions, sports, and creative events, while noting expanded opportunities for graduates to pursue higher education at leading domestic and foreign universities. Expressing confidence in the upcoming school year, Karimova wished students, teachers, and parents health, well-being, and academic success.
