Agency for Innovative Development under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of the Republic of Uzbekistan

As part of InnoWeek–2025: International Innovative Ideas Week, an International Forum titled “Women in Science and Business in the 21st Century: Achievements and Challenges” was held. The forum was opened by Kongratboy Sharipov, Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of the Republic of Uzbekistan. In his opening remarks, he emphasized that the growing presence of women in science today is the result of broad opportunities and support provided by the state.

The main goal of the forum was to highlight the significant role and contribution of women in science, innovation, and business, analyze achievements in this field, discuss existing challenges, and outline practical solutions. The event also served as an important platform to strengthen international cooperation aimed at promoting gender equality, developing women’s entrepreneurship, and expanding their participation in innovation processes.

During the forum, a range of important issues were discussed. Speakers addressed women’s contributions to economic growth and sustainable development through their engagement in science and business, effective methods of supporting women in innovation, and expanding opportunities through education and skills development. Special attention was given to enhancing women’s competitiveness, increasing their participation in startups and entrepreneurial projects, and improving their access to financial resources.

Foreign women experts praised Uzbekistan’s growing support for women’s entrepreneurship and participation in science. Presentations were made on the Horizon Europe program, which provides equal opportunities for women and men in Europe. Notably, the active participation of Uzbek women scientists in this program was highlighted. They are involved in international projects in the fields of biotechnology, medicine, climate change, and digital technologies, showcasing the country’s scientific potential on the global stage. This contributes not only to raising the international profile of Uzbek women scientists, but also to integrating national scientific schools into the global scientific community.

International experts also shared best practices in gender equality and highly appreciated the reforms being implemented in Uzbekistan. The forum laid a solid foundation for further expanding women’s participation in science and business, promoting gender equality, and developing new initiatives.