Uzbekistan is advancing its educational ties with China as officials explore the possibility of opening a branch of the prestigious Beijing Institute of Technology (BIT) in Tashkent.
The move comes amid a series of agreements reached during a visit by a delegation from Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation to China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region from April 28 to 30.
According to the ministry’s press service, the delegation engaged in a range of meetings aimed at boosting bilateral academic cooperation, implementing joint research projects, and facilitating technology transfer.
One of the most notable developments was the discussion around establishing a BIT campus in Tashkent. If approved, the branch would host five key faculties: computer science, mechanical and automotive engineering, green energy, big data and artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.
In addition to this initiative, multiple partnerships were formalized during the trip:
- A technology transfer center is set to be established in collaboration with a UN expert on trade and development and representatives of Space Techtronic Industries Services (Shenzhen).
- Academic exchange programs will be developed with Xinjiang Beixin Road & Bridge Group, enhancing mobility and joint learning opportunities.
- A food safety laboratory center will be opened in partnership with Tianfeng Xinjiang Agricultural Science and Technology Company.
- Scientific research in agriculture and a new concept of “Uzbek-Chinese Landscape Design” will be pursued through cooperation with Tianjin Agricultural University.
- Student exchange programs are being negotiated between Chan’an University and both the Tashkent Institute of Chemical Technology’s Yangiyer branch and other Uzbek institutions, with plans to admit 30 students in each of four bachelor’s programs.
In January 2024, 70 cooperation documents were signed between Uzbek and Chinese universities, including five agreements focused on joint educational programs.
In March 2025, Finance Interconnect Holdings discussed the development of international-standard retraining and professional development programs for specialists in green energy, agriculture, ICT, and tourism. The company also plans to launch a service center to prepare Uzbek citizens for academic and professional advancement.
