LocationsA new center opens in Khanabad to foster innovation, inclusion, and regional collaboration among young changemakers.
A Bridge for Tomorrow: Regional Youth Hub Opens in Andijan to Unite Central Asia’s Youths
November 21, 2025
Photo: UNDP Uzbekistan
November 20, 2025 - Andijan, Uzbekistan - this day marks the opening of dynamic youth space - the Regional Youth Hub in Khanabad, Andijan Region. This hub, established by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with support from the Government of Japan, aims to empower young people through education, innovation, and community engagement.
The opening ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including Mr. Komiljon Komilov, Deputy Governor of Andijan Region; Mr. Hirata Kenji, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Uzbekistan; Mr. Dolli Allaev, Deputy Chairman of the Association of Mahallas of Uzbekistan; and Ms Akiko Fujii, UNDP Resident Representative in Uzbekistan.
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Uzbekistan, H.E. Mr. Kenji Hirata, noted: “Japan is proud to support the creation of the Regional Youth Hub in Andijan. This space will not only empower young people with skills and knowledge but also foster friendship and cooperation across Central Asia. Investing in youth is investing in the future, and we are confident that the Hub will inspire generations of innovators and changemakers.”
In her remarks, UNDP Resident Representative Ms Akiko Fujii emphasized the Hub’s regional role: “The Khanabad Regional Youth Hub is more than a center—it is a bridge. It will welcome youth from Uzbekistan and neighboring countries, creating a space where ideas flourish and a shared future rooted in innovation and mutual respect takes shape.”
The Regional Youth Hub offers a range of opportunities for young people, including capacity-building programs in vocational, soft, and digital skills such as AI, coding, cybersecurity, social media management, and 3D modeling. It provides free foreign language courses and hosts intellectual clubs like “Ibrat Quiz,” “Ibrat Debate,” and “Speaking Club,” while supporting youth-led projects such as “Ustoz AI,” “Qizlar Akademiyasi,” and “Mutolaa.” It promotes creative industries through workshops in animation and design, provides mental health and legal support. Additionally, it serves as a platform for regional forums, summits, and conferences, fostering interregional cooperation and strengthening ties among Central Asian youth.
This initiative contributes to Uzbekistan’s national development priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), fostering education, decent work, and social inclusion. By connecting young leaders, entrepreneurs, and activists, the Hub will serve as a catalyst for innovation and regional cooperation.
