The Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of Uzbekistan held a meeting on September 3, 2026, with Jonathan Slater, an international specialist in public administration and educational reform. Representatives from the Ministry of Preschool and School Education were also present.
Jonathan Slater, who previously served as the Permanent Secretary of the Department for Education in the UK and has over 35 years of experience in public administration and educational transformations, currently serves as a consultant on administrative reforms and public administration for Suma Chakrabarti, an advisor to the President of Uzbekistan.
During the meeting, officials presented information on current changes in the education system of Uzbekistan. These transformations are aimed at improving the quality and efficiency of the system, implementing international standards, and developing innovative potential.
Participants noted the growth in higher education coverage among the population, the acceleration of the process of international accreditation of curricula, and the adoption of measures strengthening the country's innovative potential. It was also noted that Uzbekistan ranks 79th in the Global Innovation Index, maintaining leading positions among Central Asian countries.
The parties paid special attention to ensuring continuity between preschool, school, and higher education. Discussions focused on introducing a continuous professional mentorship system that would cover the period from preschool education through the completion of the ninth grade.
According to the meeting participants, creating such a system is critically important for preparing youth for future professional activities and assisting them in early determination of educational and career goals.
Priority Tasks and International Cooperation
A central theme was the priority tasks for developing the education system for the period 2026–2030, as well as prospects for international cooperation. The parties discussed the need to improve quality assurance mechanisms, develop accreditation systems based on advanced international experience, and enhance the global competitiveness of Uzbek universities.
Furthermore, participants reviewed opportunities to attract a larger number of international students to Uzbek universities and increase the country's international prestige in the field of education. Special attention was given to the prospect of opening branches of leading world higher education institutions in Uzbekistan.
Participants emphasized the importance of studying foreign experience and adapting advanced approaches to the national education system, noting the need for constant cooperation to improve the quality of education and administrative efficiency. The meeting concluded with an exchange of views and proposals on strengthening partnerships in priority areas, further improving the education system, and achieving long-term goals.