Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 5 March 2025, the Agency for Innovative Development under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation organized a special event dedicated to International Women’s Day on 8 March.

The event brought together female leaders in scientific and innovative fields from higher education institutions and research organizations across the country.

During the gathering, it was highlighted that ongoing reforms in science and education have enabled women to achieve remarkable success. Over the past five years, 5,791 women have earned academic degrees, including 732 who obtained Doctor of Science (DSc) titles and 5,059 who earned PhDs. In 2024 alone, 212 women received DSc degrees, while 1,398 were awarded PhDs. Currently, around 5,000 female scientists are actively working in research, and more than 14,000 women are engaged in teaching and scientific activities at universities nationwide.

Supporting women, increasing their societal participation—especially in science and education—and encouraging their initiatives are among the priorities of Uzbekistan’s state policy. Thanks to large-scale reforms in recent years, the number of women making significant contributions in various fields, including academia, has risen considerably.

Particular attention was given to the Olim Ayollar (“Women Scientists”) initiative, which promotes practical and innovative scientific projects. While only 111 projects were supported under this initiative in 2021, the number grew to 342 in 2024, demonstrating a steady expansion of women’s involvement in scientific research.

At the event, women who have made significant contributions to science and national development were awarded certificates of appreciation and commemorative gifts.

These reforms and ongoing support for women in science not only foster personal and professional growth but also strengthen Uzbekistan’s international standing as a country committed to gender equality and human capital development.