Uzbekistan Youth Affairs Agency Reports $9.6 Mln in Exam Reimbursements
Uzbekistan is pivoting its national strategy from natural resources to human capital. As of February 9, 2026, the government has invested $9.6 mln to reimburse international exam fees for 58,247 young people, according to Alisher Sadullaev, Director of the Youth Affairs Agency.
The initiative targets youth scoring 70%+ on exams to build a globally competitive workforce.
Key Data:
- English Dominance: Of the total beneficiaries, 43,191 received funding for IELTS, costing over $8 mln.
- Global Reach: Funding covers SAT (5,569 students), TOEFL, and languages like German (TestDaF), Korean (TOPIK), and Chinese.
- Critical Age: The majority of investment targets the 18–23 age group, crucial for university and career placement.
The Strategic Shift
Under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the program aims to raise «global citizens» rather than just local workers. Sadullaev argues that proficiency in foreign languages and international standards is the key to opening Uzbekistan to global media, investors, and institutions.
«Timely investment in education and human capital is how countries turn demographic potential into real prosperity,» the Sadullaev stated, calling its youth the nation’s «real superpower».
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