Uzbekistan’s Minister of Defense Shukhrat Khalmukhammedov. Photo: Press service of the President of Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan will establish a University of Military Security and Defense based on the current Armed Forces Academy. The move was announced by the presidential press service following a presentation to President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on reforms in the national military education system.
The new university will consolidate all major military educational institutions under the Ministry of Defense, including five military institutes, the Higher School for Sergeant Training, and the School for Aviation and Drone Specialists, the latter two of which will be granted institute status. The reform envisions a centralized vertical training system, enabling the integration of scientific advancements into the practical preparation of officers and specialists.
The Higher School for Sergeant Training will implement a modern system focused on leadership development, advanced weapons studies, and tactical training. This initiative aims to strengthen the command-sergeant corps, which plays a central role in the country’s updated defense strategy.
Another innovation is a hybrid “2+2” education model. Second-year students at civilian universities who pass selection will be able to pursue one of 18 military specialties, including psychologist, communications officer, logistics specialist, and supply clerk.
To support outstanding cadets, a presidential scholarship will be introduced. Recipients will be eligible to enter military master's programs without exams for up to five years after completing a bachelor’s degree.
The reform also includes a dual-degree system, allowing graduates to obtain both civilian and military qualifications in 36 fields, facilitating their transition to civilian life after military service. Military instructors will be sent abroad for professional development at leading foreign military education centers.
Earlier, President Mirziyoyev instructed the accelerated digitalization of the Armed Forces and the unification of all information resources of defense-related ministries and agencies into a single, secure information space. He also emphasized the need to modernize military education programs, improve faculty qualifications, and equip the national army with state-of-the-art technology.
