Ministry of Digital Technologies of the Republic of Uzbekistan

During the event, the findings of the Country Gender Assessment for Uzbekistan were presented, and the draft Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment Policy currently being developed by ADB was discussed.

The roundtable was opened by Kanokpan Lao-Araya, Country Director of ADB's Resident Mission in Uzbekistan. She noted that ADB is placing particular emphasis on gender equality in Uzbekistan, expanding women's economic and social opportunities, and supporting inclusive development.

The event brought together gender equality advisors from ministries and agencies, members of the Gender Equality Council, and specialists responsible for this area. Among the participants were Elmira Bositkhonova, First Deputy Minister of Health of Uzbekistan, and Kamola Sobirova, Advisor to the Minister of Digital Technologies.

In her remarks, K. Sobirova emphasized the importance of ensuring that every citizen, regardless of gender, acquires modern digital skills and is able to fully access online services as part of the country's digital transformation.

"Today, IT companies creating new jobs in the labor market are increasingly in need of specialists with professional and modern skills. In technological professions, it is not a person's gender but their knowledge, potential, and professional skills that are decisive.

From this perspective, encouraging girls to pursue modern, in-demand professions is an important step toward expanding their economic opportunities, enabling them to earn a decent income and establish themselves in the labor market. Specialists with modern knowledge and skills are able to realize their potential in worthy positions and work in high-income professions," said K. Sobirova.

The discussions addressed the current state of gender equality in Uzbekistan, expanding women's participation in the economy and labor market, engaging them in modern professions, and creating new opportunities for women through digital technologies and innovation.