Pakistan and Uzbekistan Discuss Expanding Cooperation in Higher Education

Uzbekistan’s Ambassador, Alisher Tukhtaev, held a meeting with the Chairman of Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission, Niaz Ahmad Akhtar.

During the meeting, the parties thoroughly discussed issues related to further intensifying bilateral cooperation between Uzbekistan and Pakistan in the field of higher education. They also reviewed the implementation of agreements reached within the framework of high-level visits, strengthening academic ties, expanding research collaboration, and initiatives aimed at improving the quality of education.

Ambassador Alisher Tukhtaev briefed the Pakistani side on the large-scale educational reforms being implemented in Uzbekistan under the leadership of the country’s President. In particular, he provided information on comprehensive measures aimed at modernizing the higher education system in line with modern requirements, developing science and innovation, and equipping young people with contemporary knowledge and practical skills. It was emphasized that these reforms have significantly improved the quality of education and created broad opportunities for international cooperation.

It was noted that in recent years, Uzbekistan has been strengthening its position as a regional hub for the export of educational services. Today, students from various countries around the world, including Pakistan, are studying in Uzbekistan. At the same time, a number of branches of prestigious foreign universities are operating in the country.

Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar, in turn, highly appreciated the positive changes taking place in Uzbekistan’s education sector and expressed interest in further deepening cooperation between the two countries. He confirmed that the Pakistani side is ready to support academic exchanges and joint projects.

During the meeting, the participants exchanged views on the introduction of joint educational programs, development of research initiatives, establishment of student and faculty exchange programs, as well as enhancing human resource capacity through specialized training.

They also discussed the possibility of joint accreditation of educational programs. This would help strengthen quality control in education and ensure the international recognition of diplomas.

During the meeting, the importance of accelerating efforts to establish a branch of Tashkent State Medical University in Pakistan was highlighted. This initiative is of great significance in elevating academic cooperation between the two countries to a new level, expanding the exchange of advanced practices in medical education, and creating new opportunities for Pakistani students.