A Journey into Central Asia: Insights from the Recent DBT Education Trade Mission to Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan

In October, I had the privilege of joining a trade mission organised by the Department of Business and Trade (DBT) to Central Asia, focusing on the opportunities in education available in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. Hosted by the two British Ambassadors in countries, the delegation had the opportunity to meet with the Education Ministries in both countries and key stakeholders, providing an invaluable look into the educational landscapes of these countries. Here is a snapshot of our findings and the promising prospects for British educational expertise.

Uzbekistan: A Thriving Education Sector with Expansive Potential

Our visit to Tashkent was hosted by H.E. Tim Smart, the British Ambassador, along with the DBT team. During the three days spent in country, we connected with representatives from the British Council and met with officials from the Ministry of Preschool and School Education and Ministry of Higher Education, as well as leaders from private schools and higher education institutions.

Uzbekistan, ranking third globally in hosting international campuses, presents numerous opportunities for educational growth. Key insights include:

• Population Growth and Education Demand: Uzbekistan's rapidly expanding youth population is creating immense pressure on its school system, particularly in K12 education. This growth presents challenges, including resource shortages, a scarcity of trained teachers, and infrastructural limitations.
• Funding and International Partnerships: Substantial funding from USAID, the Global Partnership for Education, UNESCO, UNICEF, and the World Bank has the opportunity to open doors for members active in international development, especially in areas like social infrastructure, English Language Learning, Teacher Training, and Early Childhood Education.
• Technical Education : A booming interest in TVET education is evident, with significant funding from GIZ supporting training programs. Many Uzbek graduates pursue further education in Germany, creating pathways for cross-border educational partnerships.

During a meeting with the Ministry of Preschool and School Education, we learned about their top seven priorities, which reflect the country's commitment to elevating its education standards:‍

1. English Teacher Training: Emphasis on professional development‍
2. Quality education: learning materials, and resources, particularly in Mathematics, Science, and ICT.‍
3. School Leadership Certification: A focus on strengthening school management capabilities.‍
4. Expansion of Preschool Education: Increasing preschool facilities is crucial to supporting early childhood development.‍
5. School Construction: With an annual enrollment target of 1.2 million students, Uzbekistan is pursuing public-private partnerships (PPPs) to build new schools. Notably, the ADB, EBRD, and IFC are funding many projects.‍
6. AI Integration: Interest in building capacity within artificial intelligence and its applications in education.‍
7. Inclusive Education: Strong collaboration with UNICEF and UNESCO on supporting children with disabilities and ensuring their inclusion in mainstream education.

Overall, Uzbekistan's education sector presents a range of possibilities, from direct partnerships and franchise models to blended delivery and professional development for teachers. The government’s commitment to improving educational quality, accessibility, and infrastructure creates fertile ground for British involvement.

Kazakhstan: A Vision for Educational Excellence and International Collaboration

Our time in Kazakhstan took us to Almaty and Astana, where we explored the country’s vision for educational transformation. Hosted by H.E. Kathy Leach, the British Ambassador, along with DBT colleagues and the British Council, we had the opportunity to engage with local leaders, universities, and private investors who are keen to bring British educational standards to Kazakhstan.

Kazakhstan, with its aspirations to become a regional education hub, offers immense potential for international partnerships. Key opportunities include:

• Private Investment in Education: The private sector in Kazakhstan is increasingly investing in education, particularly in primary, secondary, and higher education. Almaty, in particular, boasts one of the most developed private school systems in the country, though challenges around educational quality remain.
• Government Priorities: During meetings with the Ministry of Enlightenment and the Ministry of Higher Education in Astana, we heard about Kazakhstan’s strategies for innovation, capacity building, and quality enhancement. The Kazakh government is prioritising:
  • ‍Curriculum Reform and Teacher Training: Emphasis on STEM education and teacher training to address quality issues across the education system.‍
  • Infrastructure and Technology: The Ministry of Technology and Innovation is committed to expanding internet access and digital resources in schools.‍
  • World Bank-Funded Projects: Multiple higher education projects are being funded, particularly in the areas of infrastructure and construction.
• ‍Higher Education Focus: Kazakhstan is eager to establish research partnerships and bolster English language learning. A significant number of World Bank-funded initiatives are targeting improvements in higher education, making it an attractive sector for British involvement.‍
• Upcoming Kazakh Delegation Visit: Looking ahead, we’re excited to welcome the Kazakh delegation to London in January, where a series of roundtable discussions and networking events will further explore these education initiatives and partnerships.

Kazakhstan’s clear focus on curriculum development, infrastructure, and capacity-building in technology aligns seamlessly with British educational expertise. The country's openness to collaboration in early years, K12, vocational training, and higher education creates robust commercial and developmental prospects.

A Vision for Future Collaborations

Reflecting on this trade mission, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan showcase promising avenues for British education providers and international development organizations alike. Both countries are making significant strides to enhance educational quality, expand access, and leverage global expertise. The strong alignment between British educational standards and Central Asia's development goals presents a mutually beneficial partnership that can drive impactful change across the region.

With vibrant potential across various sectors, at British Expertise International we are keen to continue our engagement with the two countries and bringing our members closer to the available opportunities in both markets.

In the second week of December, we are delighted to host two events welcoming colleges from the DBT (in post and London) who will provide us with more in depth information on the available opportunities.

Authors:

Luisa Edves, Director - Education, Skills & International Development, British Expertise International