Transforming the country into a regional IT hub has been identified as a priority goal of the Uzbekistan 2030 Strategy. To achieve this objective, particular attention is being paid to the digitalization of public administration and economic sectors, the development of modern telecommunications infrastructure, the training of competitive information technology professionals, and the expansion of the innovation ecosystem.

Thanks to the favorable conditions created in recent years, the number of IT companies and high-paying jobs, as well as the volume of digital services exports, have been steadily increasing in the country. In this context, the training of young specialists equipped with modern knowledge and skills is becoming particularly important.

Cyber University was established pursuant to the Presidential Resolution of January 20, 2025, as an independent higher education institution under the Ministry of Digital Technologies.

The university trains specialists who meet international standards in information and cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and robotics, cyber law, digital forensics, and cyber economics.

Today, the university comprises 2 faculties and 4 departments. Approximately 1,000 students are enrolled in 8 bachelor’s and 2 master’s degree programs.

The university has an academic building with a capacity for 1,585 students, a student dormitory accommodating 805 residents, modern sports facilities, a cafeteria, and an information resource center.

The Head of State reviewed the conditions at the university. He also held a warm conversation with the students.

“In the future, demand for specialists like you will continue to grow. If every sector and every region fails to keep pace with digital technologies, the country will not be able to develop successfully. Therefore, you must continually work on yourselves and acquire the most advanced knowledge”, the President emphasized.

The university team has performed successfully in international cybersecurity competitions and hackathons held under the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. The university, established on the principles of environmental sustainability, has been granted “Green Campus” status.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev then took part in the ceremony marking the laying of the foundation stone for the Future Technologies Center, which will be built on the site adjacent to the university.

In his address, the Head of State emphasized that algorithms, whose foundations were laid by our great ancestor Muhammad al-Khwarizmi, have today become the foundation of the global economy and an integral part of people’s everyday lives.

It was noted that in today’s world, competition is measured not in years and months but in minutes and seconds. Countries that delay digital transformation, fail to master artificial intelligence, and do not invest in innovation will fall behind in global development.

“It is impossible to develop without seriously pursuing the digitalization of every sphere of our lives. We must all clearly understand that without it, we have no future”, the President said.

In recent years, Uzbekistan’s achievements in information technology have gained broad international recognition. This year, venture investment volume increased fivefold, placing the country first in the world in growth on this indicator.

The value of Uzbekistan’s national startup ecosystem has reached nearly $4.5 billion. To support innovative ideas, the Presidential Startup Competition has been launched with a $5 million prize fund.

In addition, Uzbekistan has become one of the founding states of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization and has joined the group of countries shaping the global agenda in this field.

Approximately $500 million in investment will be attracted to construct the center, which will cover a total area of 36 hectares. It will become an integrated innovation ecosystem that brings together education, scientific research, technology testing, and production processes.

The city of Nurafshan was not chosen at random. Cyber University currently trains about 1,000 specialists in cybersecurity and information protection. A comprehensive innovation cluster will now be established around the university, serving as a model for the entire country.

The center will house 6 modern laboratories specializing in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, cloud technologies, and cryptography.

In addition, an artificial intelligence data center and an engineering cluster will be established, along with a center for the production of secure computers, data transmission equipment, and high-tech tokens. A dedicated testing ground will be created for unmanned aerial vehicles and robotics.

With support from the Asian Development Bank, a platform will be established to commercialize domestic technologies and promote national products in international markets. 5-megawatt power generation facilities will be built to ensure a stable electricity supply for the projects.

Plans call for attracting leading global companies, universities, and scientists to the center, as well as for creating modern social, cultural, and residential infrastructure for students and staff.

Most importantly, this innovation ecosystem will create more than 5,000 highly skilled jobs. The center will provide a powerful impetus for the development of the digital economy in Tashkent region and strengthen the region’s innovation potential.

As noted, digital services exports from Tashkent region are expected to reach $50 million this year. To expand this potential, construction has also begun on modern IT Park buildings in the cities of Nurafshan and Chirchiq.

“Our irreversible reforms, designed with the long term in mind, will provide a solid foundation for the future of our youth – the creators of New Uzbekistan. ‘Digital Uzbekistan’ will be our worthy legacy for future generations”, the Head of State said.

It was emphasized that the main goal is to transform this site into a center for artificial intelligence and digitalization in Tashkent region, a modern complex where young people can fully realize their knowledge, talent, and abilities.

It was noted that the scientific developments, technological solutions, and discoveries to be implemented at the Future Technologies Center will strengthen the country’s international standing.

During the ceremony, construction also began on 9 new projects valued at $465 million, to be implemented in partnership with Russian, Chinese, and German companies.

The commissioning of the new facilities will create an additional 5,000 jobs and expand public access to modern social services.

In conclusion, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev expressed his wishes for success to the foreign partners, specialists, and builders.