Uzbekistan–Kyrgyzstan Rectors’ Forum Strengthens Academic Cooperation
The Second Forum of Rectors of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan Universities is currently being held in Samarkand, bringing together rectors and professors from leading higher education institutions of both countries. The forum opened under the leadership of Mr. Qoʻngʻirotboy Sharipov, Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of Uzbekistan, and Ms. Dogdurkul Kendirbayeva, Minister of Higher Education and Science of Kyrgyzstan.
Among the distinguished participants is Professor Inom Majidov, Rector of the National University of Uzbekistan. On the sidelines of the forum, Rector Majidov signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Kyrgyz National University, focusing on joint work toward the sustainable development of both universities.
The agreement highlights cooperation in several key areas:
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): collaborative initiatives that integrate sustainability principles into academic programs, research, and campus life.
Joint Research and Innovation: developing research projects in environmental science, renewable energy, digital transformation, and social sciences.
Curriculum Development: improving study programs in line with labor market demands and international standards.
Faculty Development: strengthening professional training for professors and lecturers, with exchange programs and capacity-building workshops.
Student Mobility: creating new opportunities for students to participate in academic exchange and joint degree programs.
Cultural and Language Exchange: fostering people-to-people connections and mutual understanding between Uzbek and Kyrgyz students.
During the forum, rectors of leading institutions from both countries delivered speeches stressing the importance of preparing highly qualified specialists who meet the needs of the labor market. They underlined the necessity of expanding inter-university ties, drawing on best international practices, and implementing modern pedagogical technologies.
Special emphasis was placed on academic mobility, joint scientific and innovative projects, and increasing the qualifications of teaching staff. Over two days, the forum hosted plenary sessions and parallel discussions focusing on the future of cooperation in higher education, science, and innovation.
In total, nearly 30 MoU, agreements, and roadmaps were signed. The forum concluded with visits to Samarkand State University and Samarkand State Medical University, where participants gained insights into the activities and achievements of these institutions.
