Uzbekistan has announced plans to establish a Regional Center for Knowledge and Skills in Atomic Energy at the Tashkent branch of Russia's National Research Nuclear University MEPhI, marking another step in the country's efforts to develop its civilian nuclear sector and strengthen regional cooperation in nuclear energy.

The decision, approved under a government resolution published on the national legislation database Lex.uz, provides for the creation of the centre as a separate structural unit within the university's Tashkent branch.

What is the New Center?

The Regional Center for Knowledge and Skills in Atomic Energy will serve as a scientific and practical training platform for nuclear specialists from across Central Asia. Rather than creating an entirely new institution, the center will utilize the existing infrastructure and educational resources of the MEPhI branch in Tashkent.

According to the government resolution, the facility is intended to become a regional hub for education, training and professional development in the field of nuclear energy.

Why is Uzbekistan Creating the Centrer?

The initiative comes as Uzbekistan advances plans to develop its nuclear energy industry and seeks to build a qualified workforce capable of supporting future nuclear projects.

The center's main objectives include:

• Developing training programs that comply with international standards for the design, construction and safe operation of nuclear power facilities;
• Organizing practical and hands-on training courses for specialists from Central Asian countries;
• Providing advanced technical education to support the development of nuclear infrastructure across the region.

The project also reflects growing interest among Central Asian countries in expanding expertise in nuclear technologies and energy security.

How will Specialists be Trained?

One of the center's key features will be simulator-based training designed to replicate the operation of reactor and turbine units at nuclear power plants.

These simulation systems will allow engineers, operators and technical specialists to gain practical experience in managing nuclear facilities under realistic operating conditions, while adhering to international safety standards.

What Role will the Center Play in the Region?

Beyond education and training, the center will provide consulting services to Central Asian countries seeking to develop national nuclear infrastructure programs.

It will also support efforts to promote a nuclear safety culture in accordance with recommendations issued by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), helping regional states align their nuclear programs with internationally recognized standards and practices.

When will the Center Become Operational?

Under the government resolution, the Regional Centre for Knowledge and Skills in Atomic Energy is expected to be fully staffed with qualified personnel within the next three months, allowing it to begin operations as Uzbekistan expands its role in the regional nuclear energy sector.