A conference dedicated to the launch of the large-scale project ‘Quality and Innovation in Higher Education’ was held in Bishkek. This project is implemented by the Ministry of Education and Science of the Kyrgyz Republic with the support of the World Bank. The initiative is aimed at developing the scientific potential of higher education institutions, improving educational programmes and strengthening links with the labour market.

The official opening of the event was held by the Deputy Minister of Education and Science of the Kyrgyz Republic Rasul Abazbek uulu. Hugh Riddell, Head of the World Bank Office in Kyrgyzstan, made a welcoming speech, noting the importance of the project for the modernisation of higher education in the country.

The conference was attended by rectors of leading universities in Kyrgyzstan, who presented initiatives to create centres of excellence, i.e. research hubs. These centres will become platforms for research and innovation, contributing to the development of key sectors of the economy and strengthening cooperation between universities, industry and international partners.

The event was also attended by representatives of research organisations, business, industry and international organisations, highlighting the importance of interaction between the educational sphere and different sectors of the economy.

In addition, the project covers modernising academic programmes, improving the accreditation system and enhancing the quality of scientific research.
Its implementation will significantly strengthen Kyrgyzstan's position in the international educational arena, creating conditions for the training of highly qualified specialists in demand in the modern labour market.