The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), the Government of Uzbekistan, and UNICEF have launched a landmark partnership aimed at transforming the nation’s education system.
Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser, President of the IsDB, paid his first official visit to Uzbekistan, where he examined significant advancements in the professional development of preschool educators. This visit highlights the strategic partnership between IsDB, Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Preschool and School Education (MPSE), and UNICEF, focused on strengthening the country’s education system, The Caspian Post reports via Uzbek media.
During the visit, Dr. Al Jasser toured the Institute for Retraining and Professional Development for preschool directors and specialists-a state-of-the-art facility established through a multimillion-dollar investment. Minister of Preschool and School Education, E’zozkhon Karimova, emphasized the critical role of investing in educators, stating, “By investing in teachers, we invest in the future of every child.”
Central to the visit was the $2.3 million initiative “Expanding Access to Quality Preschool Education in Uzbekistan.” This project involves the establishment of eleven regional training centers, the launch of Uzbekistan’s first AI-powered multimedia studio in Tashkent, and the enhancement of teacher training curricula to modern standards.
Dr. Al Jasser underlined the project’s transformative impact, saying, “Modern tools unlock teachers’ full potential, and this innovative curriculum is reshaping how an entire generation of children learns. By investing in youth, Uzbekistan is laying the foundation for long-term prosperity. IsDB is proud to partner in this vital initiative, reaffirming our commitment to sustainable development and education reform.”
Beyond early childhood education, the tripartite partnership is also advancing the SmartED program-Uzbekistan’s largest single investment in education, totaling $220 million. As part of this program, MPSE and UNICEF recently signed agreements worth $19.2 million to pilot inclusive education models, modernize the national curriculum and assessment systems, and strengthen quality assurance frameworks. The overarching goal is to build an innovative, equitable, and globally competitive education system.
Regina Castillo, UNICEF Representative in Uzbekistan, highlighted the strategic importance of IsDB’s investment: “Early childhood education yields tremendous returns. Curriculum reform is critical to creating a relevant and sustainable education system.” She also emphasized that quality early education is especially vital for vulnerable children, improving their educational outcomes and economic prospects while reducing social disadvantages.
The IsDB’s efforts in Uzbekistan align with its Country Partnership Strategy 2022-2026, which prioritizes human capital development to ensure sustainable and resilient growth.
