The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $100 million concessional loan to Uzbekistan aimed at improving the quality of education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in secondary schools, according to an ADB press release.
The project, titled “Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics in Secondary Education,” seeks to equip Uzbek youth with modern STEM skills — considered a key driver of economic growth — to help the country achieve upper-middle-income status by 2030.
Kanokpan Lao-Araya, ADB Country Director for Uzbekistan, said the project reflects the country’s commitment to investing in human capital and empowering young people. “By strengthening STEM education, Uzbekistan is laying the foundation for a more inclusive, sustainable, and globally competitive future,” she noted.
Under the project, 200 secondary schools nationwide will undergo major modernization. They will be equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories, upgraded IT infrastructure, and solar panels, and will be made accessible for students with disabilities. Once completed, the upgraded schools will serve as resource centers for neighboring educational institutions.
The program also includes a large-scale teacher retraining initiative across six STEM subjects, emphasizing interdisciplinary learning and the use of digital technologies. Special attention will be given to encouraging girls to pursue technical professions through awareness campaigns and career counseling programs.
The project was first agreed upon between Uzbekistan and ADB in 2021. According to the bank, it aligns with both Uzbekistan’s Development Strategy through 2026 and ADB’s own priorities, including digitalization and gender equality. It will complement other education-related initiatives in the country, including future investments in training for the green economy.
This year marks 30 years of partnership between ADB and Uzbekistan. Since joining the bank in 1995, Uzbekistan has received a total of $14.6 billion in loans, grants, and technical assistance. Recently, ADB also approved a $500 million loan to support the government’s efforts to improve public sector efficiency, strengthen economic governance, and accelerate integration into the global economy.
