Visit to Uzbekistan Government and Partner Universities for Educational Collaboration
On October 28, 2024, a delegation from the University of Tsukuba, led by President Nagata, traveled to Uzbekistan to participate in a signing ceremony for a Letter of Intent (LOI) that aims to facilitate collaboration on the establishment of a new university in the region. This event is part of broader efforts to enhance academic cooperation between Japan and Uzbekistan.
Discussions Prior to the Ceremony
Prior to the ceremony, discussions occurred with Prof. Sharipov Kongratbay Avezimbetovich, the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation of Uzbekistan, focusing on various aspects related to the proposed university’s establishment.
Changes in Ceremony Plans
Originally, the signing ceremony was intended to coincide with a trip to Central Asia by Japanese Prime Minister Kishida. However, his visit was canceled due to the declaration of a “Nankai Trough Earthquake Emergency.” Despite the change in plans, the ceremony went ahead as scheduled.
Meetings with Government Officials
Following the signing, the delegation met with officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade of Uzbekistan. Meetings were held with Mr. Khaydarov Ilkhom Utkurovich, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Mr. Kudratov Laziz Shavkatovich, Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade. On November 29, additional discussions were conducted with Mr. Sherzod Xotamovich, Minister of Digital Technologies, regarding the advancement of plans for the new university.
Visit to the University of World Economy and Diplomacy
The delegation also visited the University of World Economy and Diplomacy, where they met with Prof. Umarov Akram Azamatovich, the First Vice President for Education, and Prof. Ismailova Gulnoza Saydiganikhodjaevna, the Vice President for Research. Conversations focused on opportunities for student and academic exchanges.
Collaboration with Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies
Additionally, meetings took place with Rector Rikhsieva Gulchehra Shavkatovna at Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies to explore potential collaborative efforts. During this visit, President Nagata was awarded an honorary professorship in acknowledgment of his contributions to Japanese language education at the institution.
Conclusion
This visit represents a notable development in fostering educational collaboration between the University of Tsukuba and Uzbekistan’s academic institutions.
(Source: University of Tsukuba)
