President Mirziyoyev congratulates teachers and coaches on their holiday

The President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, congratulated teachers and coaches on their national holiday, as reported by the President's press service.

"First of all, I would like to sincerely congratulate you, the employees of the education sector, on the Day of Teachers and Trainers, a national holiday, and extend my best wishes to all of you," said the President.

In his congratulatory message, Mirziyoyev emphasized the increasing role of teachers and mentors in shaping the future of New Uzbekistan and the Third Renaissance, highlighting their significance in society today.

The President also reiterated that raising the status and value of teachers and trainers has become a central focus of the country’s state policy.

"As the sages said, the prosperity and well-being of a nation depend on the hard work of farmers, soldiers, and the selfless teachers who nurture the young generation," the President noted.

In his message, Mirziyoyev outlined several achievements in the education sector, particularly in preschool and school education: the preschool education system has undergone a transformative phase, with the number of kindergartens increasing from 250 to 29,000, and the coverage rising to 76.4%.

Over 5,000 schools have undergone construction or repair work in the past seven years, with 608 schools renovated this year alone.

Inclusive education has been introduced in 530 schools. More than 288,000 primary school students in Karakalpakstan and Khorezm are now provided with free meals. The number of private schools has reached 5%, reflecting favorable conditions for the private sector’s growth in education.

Regarding improvements in teachers' welfare, the President highlighted that since 2016, teachers' salaries have increased by 2.5 times, and professors' salaries by 4.5 times. Starting in October, salaries for pedagogical staff will be increased by an additional 15%.

A system for improving the qualifications of teachers has been established, and 142 teachers have already returned after training abroad this year. The system for appointing school principals has been reformed, with new procedures for certification.

"The achievements of Uzbek students in international science Olympiads - from 2010 to 2016, students won 73 medals, but in the past seven years, they have won 349 medals, including 122 in 2024 alone. The President emphasized that these achievements are a testament to the dedication of teachers," the president mentions.

Additionally, for the first time, Uzbekistan has started hosting international science Olympiads dedicated to its great scientists, raising the country’s educational prestige globally.

Key reforms have also been implemented to promote foreign language learning and vocational training. In the current academic year, more than 16,000 students in 354 schools are being taught two foreign languages, and vocational training has been introduced to over 40,000 students in 289 schools.

Higher education has also seen significant growth, with 135 new universities established, bringing the total to 211, and the coverage in higher education has increased from 9% to 38%.

"On this joyous occasion, I once again sincerely congratulate you, dear teachers, and wish you all good health, family happiness, and great success in your noble work. Stay healthy, dear and kind teachers!" concluded the President.