Uzbekistan to establish Military Security and Defense University

The Academy of the Armed Forces will undergo reform, and a new Military Security and Defense University of the Republic of Uzbekistan will be established in its place. This announcement was made on July 29 by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, during a presentation on reforms to improve the country’s military education system.

It was noted that all military educational institutions currently under the Ministry of Defense — including five institutes, the Higher School for the Training of Sergeants, and the Center for the Training of Aviation and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Specialists — will be integrated into the new university as institutes. This restructuring aims to create a unified vertical system to enhance the combat capabilities of the armed forces, promote dual education, and accelerate the practical application of military research.

The Higher School for the Training of Sergeants will introduce a new system to strengthen leadership qualities and provide specialized training in modern weaponry and tactical methods for non-commissioned officers — the backbone of the armed forces.

"Another key reform is the implementation of a “2+2” education model for narrow military specialties. Under this system, students in their second year at civilian universities will be selected and trained for specific roles such as psychologists, communications officers, logistics specialists, and warehouse managers," the statement reads.

To support talented young cadets, a new “Supreme Commander” state scholarship will be introduced on a competitive basis starting from the upcoming academic year. Scholarship holders will be eligible for direct admission to a master’s program at higher military educational institutions within five years of completing their bachelor's degree — without needing to pass entrance exams.

Furthermore, graduates of 36 military education tracks will now receive two diplomas: one in a civilian specialty and another in a military field. This dual-qualification approach is designed to help former service members remain active and employable even after completing military service.

The proposed reforms were approved during the presentation, with relevant instructions issued to ensure their effective implementation.

It is worth noting that President Mirziyoyev first announced the idea of introducing the “Supreme Commander-in-Chief” scholarship on February 14, during a meeting with Uzbek youth at the Kuksaroy Presidential Residence.