What new opportunity was announced for technical college students?
During a meeting with youth on February 24, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev announced that students of technical colleges in Uzbekistan will be allowed to participate in the Work and Travel program for up to six months.
Under the new arrangement, technical college students — like university students — will have the opportunity to gain international work experience while earning additional income.
Will financial support be provided?
Participants will receive access to loans covering travel expenses. The Work and Travel program for university students was introduced in 2025, and since May 15, student loans have been issued to finance round-trip airfare and related costs.
The same financial mechanism will now apply to technical college students joining the program abroad.
How will dual education and employment links be strengthened?
The president emphasized the need to further expand the dual education system. Technical colleges will organize monthly career development days and job fairs to enhance cooperation between students and employers.
What new powers will technical colleges receive?
Technical colleges will be granted the right to establish spin-off enterprises, similar to higher education institutions. In addition, up to UZS 1 billion will be allocated to support student startup initiatives within these colleges.
What reforms are planned for vocational education?
Authorities have been instructed to review vocational training programs and better align them with labor market demands. Relevant ministries and regional governors must determine which colleges require curriculum updates, which institutions should adopt advanced dual education practices, and where infrastructure improvements are urgently needed.
Regional leaders were also warned that technical college buildings and land must not be repurposed. College directors should not be called to meetings unrelated to their core responsibilities.
What are the government’s renovation targets?
The government has set a goal to fully renovate at least 100 technical colleges annually. These institutions will be modernized and equipped according to current technological standards and high-demand professions.