Education ministers and academic leaders from Central Asia met in Tashkent for a regional forum focused on strengthening cooperation in education, science and innovation.

The Central Asian International Education Forum, held under the theme “Central Asia: A New Space for Education, Science and Innovation,” brought together education ministers from Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan, along with university leaders, international organizations and education experts, according to Tajikistan’s Ministry of Education and Science, as reported by the state-run Khovar news agency.

Discussions focused on academic exchanges, joint educational programs, mutual recognition of diplomas and professional qualifications, scientific research, grant opportunities and improving education quality.

Minister of Educatio and Sciences of Tajikistan Rahim Saidzoda said education remains a strategic priority of the country’s state policy, highlighting human capital development, youth support and expanded international cooperation in science and education.

He emphasized the importance of closer coordination among Central Asian countries, the exchange of best practices and joint initiatives to establish a regional education, science and innovation framework. He also highlighted cooperation between Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, citing the role of their leaders in creating opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships.

Saidzoda proposed developing a regional road map for cooperation in education and science for 2027-2030.

He also called for stronger regional cooperation on water resources, glacier preservation, climate change research, food security, modern technologies, digital education and the responsible use of artificial intelligence.

Saidzoda reaffirmed Tajikistan’s readiness to continue dialogue, develop joint initiatives and participate in regional cooperation programs aimed at improving education quality and expanding opportunities for young people.

Other participants stressed the importance of strengthening ties between universities, facilitating student and faculty exchanges, developing joint academic programs and expanding scientific research partnerships.

The forum also addressed the use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in education, cooperation between universities in partner countries and efforts to strengthen the international standing of Central Asian higher education institutions.