Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A meeting was held at the Strategic Reforms Agency with representatives of the Swiss organization Helvetas Swiss Intercooperation to discuss support for vocational education reform in Uzbekistan.

The event was attended by the First Deputy Director of the Strategic Reforms Agency, Abdulla Abdukadirov; project leader Simona Strassburger; Professor Ursula Renold of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology; expert Shukhrat Amanov; project manager Dildora Abidjanova; ETH Zurich assistant Michel Palayil; and other representatives from both sides.

Helvetas Swiss Intercooperation is an independent Swiss organization founded in 1955 that currently implements projects in 32 countries aimed at improving quality of life. Since 2021, the organization has been operating in Uzbekistan under the project VET4UZ — “Support for Vocational Education Reform.”

During the meeting, the main objectives and key components of the VET4UZ project were presented. These include improving the governance of the vocational education and training system, ensuring high-quality professional training, developing the teaching workforce, and increasing the involvement of businesses in vocational education. Special emphasis was placed on the need for systematic coordination between the public and private sectors, as well as strengthening the link between education and the labor market.

New challenges faced by the vocational education system were also discussed, including the rapid development of digital technologies, the transition to a green economy, and the growing demand for entrepreneurial, social, and communication skills. Participants highlighted the importance of adapting educational programs in response to the fast-evolving demands of the labor market.

During the discussions, Abdulla Abdukadirov proposed developing a series of analytical materials and expert articles dedicated to vocational education reform. The aim of this initiative is to launch a broad public dialogue on the goals, directions, and methods of reform in the education system, while also gathering feedback through surveys and consultations involving civil society, youth, and the business community.

The parties agreed on a phased approach to future work, starting with the publication of analytical reports and the collection of public opinion, followed by the development of strategic documents and practical steps. At the conclusion of the meeting, participants reaffirmed their mutual interest in continuing cooperation and implementing joint initiatives.