President Mirziyoyev Emphasizes Women’s Education for National Development
Tashkent, The Gulf Observer: President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev has reiterated the crucial role of women’s education in shaping a progressive society, underscoring that an educated woman uplifts not just her family but the entire nation.
“I never tire of repeating the same idea over and over again. If we educate one girl, we educate the whole family. If the family is educated and enlightened, the consciousness and cultural level of society will also rise,” President Mirziyoyev stated during his speech on International Women’s Day.
Highlighting the tangible progress made in this regard, he noted that over 52 percent of university students in Uzbekistan are women. Last year alone, approximately 15,000 female master’s degree students received financial support amounting to 100 billion soums. Additionally, more than 6,200 women are currently engaged in scientific research, with women contributing to 25 percent of scientific developments.
Among them, microbiologist Dilfuza Egamberdieva has brought great pride to the nation by receiving the prestigious UNESCO Carlos Finlay International Prize for her research on cultivating high-yield crops in saline soils.
“A country with educated and professional women will have peace and development. A nation with educated women will certainly be happy,” President Mirziyoyev affirmed.
To further empower women, Uzbekistan plans to expand access to education at all levels. This year, 250,000 girls will be enrolled in higher education—3.5 times more than in 2017. Additionally, the government will ensure that each mahalla (community) has 25-30 women pursuing university education.
To support this initiative, the Chairperson of the Family and Women’s Committee, Z. Mahkamova, and the Minister of Preschool and School Education, H. Umarova, will individually mentor high school girls to prepare them for higher education.
Furthermore, the president announced the launch of the “Bright Future” project, aimed at educating talented young individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds abroad. Under this initiative, at least 200 girls will be sent to study at prestigious universities worldwide each year.
Additionally, a coordinated effort led by Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation K. Sharipov, Minister of Poverty Reduction and Employment B. Zohidov, and Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry D. Vakhobov will focus on training 250,000 women in professional and entrepreneurial skills.
This comprehensive approach underscores Uzbekistan’s commitment to empowering women, ensuring their active participation in national progress, and fostering a more educated and prosperous society.
