AI laboratories to be opened at 15 universities in Uzbekistan

Artificial intelligence laboratories will be established at 15 higher education institutions in Uzbekistan. This was discussed today, January 20, during a presentation reviewed by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on achievements in the development of digital technologies and priority tasks planned for 2026.

The presentation noted that in recent years, consistent efforts have been made to develop the digital economy, digitalize public services, and build an innovation ecosystem. According to analyses by foreign experts, the total value of the country’s startup and venture ecosystem reached $3.9 billion in 2024–2025. The number of local startups has exceeded 750. Currently, 15 venture funds are operating in the country, with total venture capital surpassing $180 million.

Uzbekistan is recognized as the second fastest-growing startup ecosystem in the world and the fastest-growing in Central Asia.

It was emphasized that by 2030, the goal is to increase the number of startups to 5,000, expand the number of startups entering export markets to 200, and raise the volume of venture investments to $2 billion.

To achieve these goals, a four-stage startup support system based on international best practices is being introduced. At the stages of idea generation, development, launch, and scaling, financial resources will be allocated in the form of grants, tax incentives, co-financing, and compensation for export-related expenses.

Plans to further develop electronic government services were also reviewed.

These include increasing the number of digital services to 900, expanding the functionality of the MyGov.uz mobile application, introducing artificial intelligence technologies in more than 50 services, developing a Unified Population Register, and digitalizing services related to business registration, registration of individual entrepreneurs’ employees, opening bank cards, obtaining SIM cards, insurance, and advertising services.

The presentation also provided information on progress in creating infrastructure for artificial intelligence technologies.

In particular, a modern small-scale supercomputer has already been launched, while the procurement and commissioning of a large supercomputer are at an active stage. As a result of the project, AI laboratories will be established at 15 universities, the capacity of specialists in the field will be enhanced, and opportunities will be created to develop and implement local AI solutions.

The need to expand a network of modern data centers across the country and ensure data security and continuity was also highlighted.

Special attention was given to the development of telecommunications infrastructure.

It was noted that stable growth rates have been achieved in this area, with internet speed and coverage increasing year by year and the quality of mobile communication services improving. In 2026, plans include the introduction of 5G technologies, continued expansion of high-speed internet coverage to populated areas, and broader use of satellite communications.

The president emphasized that digital technologies directly contribute to improving the competitiveness of economic sectors, enhancing the efficiency of public administration, and raising the quality of life for the population. He issued relevant instructions to responsible officials to ensure the implementation of the outlined tasks.