Uzbekistan and Russia Strengthen Cooperation in Inclusive Education and Social Protection

Uzbekistan and Russia Strengthen Cooperation in Inclusive Education and Social Protection

Tashkent, The Gulf Observer: The leadership of the National Agency for Social Protection of Uzbekistan met with Sergey Tarasov, Rector of the Herzen State Pedagogical University of Russia, to discuss prospects for training qualified specialists in inclusive and special education.

The meeting focused on key areas such as deaf education, typhlopedagogy, speech therapy, and oligophrenopedagogy. The Russian university, leveraging its extensive experience and scientific potential, will play a pivotal role in developing educational programs and enhancing the qualifications of teachers by incorporating international standards of inclusive education.

A significant aspect of the discussions was the development of adaptive physical education and sports as a crucial tool for the social integration of people with disabilities. Uzbekistan recently established the Association of Adaptive Sports, and Herzen State Pedagogical University aims to contribute substantially to training specialists in this field. Notably, the university’s Tashkent branch plans to open a Faculty of Adaptive Sports, which will serve as a training center for coaches and methodologists working with youth with disabilities.

In addition to educational initiatives, both parties underscored the importance of professional adaptation for graduates. The National Agency for Social Protection of Uzbekistan expressed its commitment to providing internship opportunities and facilitating the employment of specialists, ensuring their effective integration into the workforce.

Following the meeting, a Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation was signed, establishing a foundation for further collaboration in social protection and inclusive education.

“Education, adaptive sports, and support for people with special needs are key areas where our countries are joining efforts. This document is not just signatures on paper but the beginning of concrete actions that will change thousands of people’s lives,” stated Shakhnoza Mirziyoyeva, First Deputy Director of the National Agency for Social Protection of Uzbekistan.

The agreement marks a significant milestone in the partnership between Uzbekistan and Russia, paving the way for advanced educational and practical solutions. As a result of this collaboration, a specialist training system will be established to enhance the quality of inclusive education and provide individuals with disabilities greater opportunities for learning and successful social integration.