LocationsA new educational platform in Khorezm region expands access to modern digital skills and employment opportunities for youth and women.
Investing in Digital Skills: IshKadr Academy Opens in Khazarasp
February 19, 2026
Photo: UNDP Uzbekistan
Khazarasp, Khorezm Region, February 18, 2026 — The official opening of the IshKadr Academy Digital Skills Development Center took place in the Khazarasp district of Khorezm region. The center was established within the framework of the joint project of the Ministry of Economy and Finance of the Republic of Uzbekistan and UNDP "Empowering Youth to Embrace the Digital Economy and Digital Entrepreneurship," with financial support from the Russian Federation.
The new center has become part of systematic work to expand opportunities for youth in the digital economy and entrepreneurship, as well as to increase the level of digital literacy in the country's regions. IshKadr Academy is designed to become a modern educational platform where young people can acquire practical skills in information technology, digital tools, and entrepreneurship.
Joint Efforts for Regional Development
The official opening ceremony was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Economy and Finance, the United Nations Development Programme in Uzbekistan, the Embassy of the Russian Federation, as well as the leadership of the Khazarasp District Khokimiyat.
As part of the visit, a bilateral meeting was held at the Khokimiyat, where current initiatives and prospects for further cooperation in the field of digitalization and youth employment support were discussed.
After the official part, the delegation visited the center's classrooms, familiarized themselves with the technical equipment, and spoke with course participants and the academy's team.
Modern Infrastructure and First Results
The center has been operating in pilot mode for two months, and currently 43 students (14 girls and 29 boys) are studying there, including 15 students from socially vulnerable families. As part of the project, the center was equipped with necessary technical equipment, computer hardware, furniture, and office infrastructure, creating a modern and comfortable educational environment.
The center coordinator presented current educational programs and plans for further course expansion. Among the priorities are the development of practice-oriented training, formation of in-demand digital competencies, and creation of conditions for further employment or launching their own projects.
Educational Programs
At IshKadr Academy, youth gain the opportunity to master modern and in-demand competencies in the labor market. Training is organized in the following priority areas:
- IT programming and digital technologies with practical orientation toward real tasks
- Use of artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities and development of innovative solutions
- Modern tools for marketing, sales, and business process management
- Foreign languages (particularly English) and e-commerce fundamentals
These areas are aimed at increasing youth competitiveness, developing entrepreneurial skills, and expanding opportunities for employment and self-employment in the digital economy.
Inclusive Approach
Special attention at the academy is given to the inclusiveness of educational programs. Training is oriented not only toward youth but also toward women aged 27 to 45 who are seeking to improve their qualifications, master new digital skills, and expand professional prospects.
The class format is designed with participants' schedules in mind. Training takes place in a structured, practice-oriented form, and the schedule is adapted to students' capabilities. Participants can attend morning seminars and combine training with work or running their own business. This flexibility allows for skill improvement without compromising current responsibilities and income.
