Uzbekistan recorded UZS 6.8 trillion ($530mn) in education service spending in the first two months of 2026, marking a 24.8% increase compared to the same period last year, according to preliminary data from the National Statistics Committee.
The data reflects growing demand for education services across the country, supported by expanding access, rising household spending, and ongoing structural reforms in the sector.
Tashkent accounted for the largest share of total spending, reaching UZS 3.6 trillion ($280mn), or more than half of the national total.
Among regions, the highest education service volumes were recorded in Samarkand with UZS 445.7bn ($35mn), Fergana with UZS 413bn ($32mn), and Namangan with UZS 315.8bn ($25mn).
Other regions also showed notable activity, including Andijan with UZS 321.2bn, Tashkent region with UZS 315.7bn, and Bukhara with UZS 280.9bn.
Lower volumes were recorded in Syrdarya at UZS 67.8bn ($5mn), Navoi with UZS 85.6bn ($7mn), and Jizzakh with UZS 107.9bn.
The steady increase in education spending highlights the sector’s growing role in the economy, as Uzbekistan continues to prioritize human capital development and expand access to educational services.
Recent reforms have introduced a national ranking system for vocational institutions, with top-performing technical schools receiving funding to improve infrastructure and incentivize staff.
In parallel, broader higher education reforms include the launch of the “New Uzbekistan” scholarship program, which will fund up to 500 international students annually, alongside the introduction of university rankings, digital and artificial intelligence integration, and new funding mechanisms.
Authorities have also approved education loans of up to $20,000 for students admitted to the world’s top 300 universities, further supporting access to international education and strengthening the country’s human capital base.
