Uzbekistan Launches Major Cultural Sector Reforms

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan has approved a presidential decree aimed at comprehensively improving governance in the fields of culture and the arts, as well as expanding the role of the private sector.

The document introduces structural changes in the operation of cultural centers, the modernization of educational programs, and the launch of new institutional and investment initiatives.

According to the decree, cultural centers under the Ministry of Culture will be refocused toward promoting intangible cultural heritage, developing amateur arts, and introducing modern disciplines such as technology, engineering, and crafts. Management of these centers will be gradually transferred to district and city khokimiyats.

Special attention is given to attracting private investment. The operation of cultural centers will be organized on the basis of public-private partnerships, aimed at introducing modern management practices and improving operational efficiency. At the same time, underperforming facilities are expected to be optimized.

Starting from 1 July 2026, a new state institution, the State Dance Ensemble “Tumor,” will be established. Its creation is viewed as part of efforts to develop national performing arts.

Regional governance in the cultural sector will also be strengthened through the introduction of a performance-based rating system for cultural departments. Beginning in 2027, annual assessments will be conducted based on key indicators, including public outreach through cultural events and preservation of national values. Top-performing units will receive financial incentives from the state budget.

The reforms also extend to vocational education. From the 2026/2027 academic year, new educational models will be introduced in specialized colleges of culture and arts, including short- and medium-term vocational programs and integrated “2+2” bachelor’s degree formats.

Admission rules for specialized schools of arts and culture will also be revised. Music education will begin from grade five, while dance, theater, folk, and applied arts programs will start from grade nine. These institutions will be fully funded by the state, including tuition, accommodation, and meals.

Graduates of specialized schools will be granted the right to teach in children’s music and art institutions, expanding the кадров pipeline for the sector.

In addition, from 1 July 2026, a pilot project titled “House of Culture” cultural cluster will be launched in every region of the country. The initiative aims to develop cultural infrastructure and expand public access to cultural services at the local level.