Significant Steps in Higher Education Reform
On October 22, 2024, the Second Online Meeting of the National Higher Education Reform Experts Network (HERE Network) took place, bringing together leading education professionals and policymakers from across the globe. Among the participants were representatives of the National Erasmus+ Office in Uzbekistan and Prof. Dr. Nozliya Normurodova, Vice Rector for International Cooperation at the Alisher Navoiy Tashkent State University of Uzbek Language and Literature.
The meeting highlighted key discussions on accelerating higher education reforms, enhancing institutional quality, and aligning universities with global standards through effective utilization of the Erasmus+ program. During her presentation, Prof. Normurodova elaborated on significant legislative changes in Uzbekistan’s higher education system, innovative institutional initiatives, and strategic national reforms introduced in recent years. She also detailed efforts to improve education quality, advance the role of universities in fulfilling their "third mission," and expand international partnerships to foster global engagement.
Prof. Normurodova further emphasized the importance of comprehensive reforms in higher education to meet both institutional and national priorities. She highlighted the need for universities to develop tailored roadmaps that address specific challenges while leveraging international collaboration and support from organizations like Erasmus+ as catalysts for positive change.
The discussions also explored how Uzbekistan’s higher education institutions are working to align with broader frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the European Green Deal, emphasizing the integration of sustainability into academic and research activities. Participants shared insights on interdisciplinary research, capacity building, and the role of international mobility in driving institutional excellence.
Notably, the recent Erasmus+ Technical Assistance Mission (TAM) seminar hosted by TSUULL on “Strategies for Higher Education Institutions: Positioning in International Rankings” was recognized as a critical step in this direction. The seminar gathered over 50 national representatives in person and around 200 experts online, reflecting the growing focus on raising the global profile of Uzbekistan’s universities.
Prof. Normurodova’s presentation and Uzbekistan’s proactive efforts in higher education reform were highly praised by international experts and stakeholders, showcasing the nation’s commitment to innovation and strategic collaboration in the academic sector. Such initiatives represent a pivotal step in elevating the international standing of Uzbekistan’s universities and advancing sustainable development in higher education.