President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has reviewed proposals aimed at improving governance in the fields of culture, arts, and crafts, stressing Uzbekistan’s commitment to expanding its creative economy and preserving national heritage.
During the presentation, the president was informed about new initiatives to enhance cultural management, boost financing, and adopt international best practices. Plans include public-private partnerships for cultural centers, support for startups in creative fields, and promotion of historical, scientific, and animated content that fosters national identity and patriotism among youth.
One of the key proposals is the development of the National Institute of Pop Art named after Botir Zokirov, with a scholarship fund, a memorial museum, and an international pop competition in the pipeline. Graduates will also be supported in pursuing advanced degrees abroad and participating in global contests.
Following his visit to Andijan, President Mirziyoyev also announced the establishment of a Higher School of Music and Arts named after Sherali Jurayev, a tribute to the renowned People's Artist. The school will host a scientific and creative lab, a studio for music production, and the annual Sherali Jurayev National Singing Competition.
To decentralize access to cultural performances, orchestras will be expanded to the regions. New symphony and national instrument orchestras are set to be formed in Fergana, equipped with instruments, costumes, and modern sound and lighting systems.
The government aims to double the size of the creative economy within five years, increasing its share of GDP to 5%. With nearly 100,000 people employed in 14,000 creative enterprises, momentum has been building—evidenced by the hosting of the Fourth World Conference on the Creative Economy in Tashkent last year and growing cooperation with UNESCO, WIPO, and countries including France, Italy, and Indonesia.
Handicrafts, a major pillar of the creative sector, also received attention. In 2024, Uzbekistan exported $6.5mn worth of handmade goods. To further develop this area, a partnership with the British Royal Foundation will establish a new academic platform in Tashkent to support over 3,000 craftsmen through master’s programs, research, and training. The long-term vision is to create a school of applied arts.
Highlighting Uzbekistan’s growing cultural reputation, Bukhara—recognized by UNESCO in 2023 as a Creative City for Crafts and Folk Arts—will host the first Biennial of Contemporary Art this September to November, featuring 70 artists from 40 countries.
In Karakalpakstan, where 2,000 young artisans are already active, the government plans to transform Nukus’s “Istiqlol” Park into a creative hub with an Oryol school to blend traditional crafts with modern design.
Officials have been tasked with ensuring high-quality implementation of these projects and organizing cultural events to global standards.
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