Ministry of Digital Technologies of the Republic of Uzbekistan

The country has significantly expanded its educational infrastructure in information technology. A total of 146 universities now offer IT-related programs, enrolling more than 120,000 students, while the number of private IT training centers has exceeded 400 nationwide.

The inclusion of information technology as a dedicated category within the Zulfiya State Prize has stimulated growing interest among women, contributing to the formation of a national IT workforce exceeding 150,000 specialists.

Uzbekistan currently leads Central and South Asia in talent rankings. In 2017, only four foreign IT companies operated in the country; today, an average of 70 new foreign IT companies enter the market each month. Daily exports of IT services have surpassed $600,000.

The conditions created are not only preventing the outflow of talent but are also encouraging the return of Uzbek professionals from abroad, many of whom are launching startups and innovation-driven businesses in their home country.

For the first time, the “President Tech Award” was announced with a total prize fund of $1 million, enabling Uzbek startups to enter global markets. The national startup ecosystem has since been recognized as the fastest-growing in the region.

As part of efforts to improve quality of life through digitalization and artificial intelligence, 800 public services have been transferred online and more than 150 paper-based documents have been abolished. Online service usage has exceeded 80 percent, while Uzbekistan’s position in international e-government rankings has improved by 24 places.

The country is increasingly positioning itself as a venue for major international technology events. Uzbekistan has already emerged as a regional IT hub and is now advancing toward AI hub status, with more than 100 artificial intelligence projects supported by investments totaling $200 million. The country leads the region in the Artificial Intelligence Readiness Index, and the “AI Tech Award” competition with a $1 million prize fund has been launched.

Construction has begun on Central Asia’s first green data center, a $3 billion project implemented in partnership with Saudi Arabia’s DataVolt. In the Republic of Karakalpakstan, preferential conditions have been introduced, including an electricity tariff of five cents per kilowatt-hour.

Uzbekistan is consolidating efforts to become a leading center for artificial intelligence development. Citizens are encouraged to join this transformation by acquiring AI skills through the national “Five Million Artificial Intelligence Leaders” educational platform, available at aileaders.uz, opening new professional pathways in the global digital economy.