Times Higher Education’s (THE) inaugural Central Asia Universities Forum takes place on Wednesday 16 October in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, in partnership with New Uzbekistan University.
The discussions at the forum will centre around the topic, Shaping the future: Advancing higher education in Central Asia, and will bring together a diverse array of experts from higher education, policymaking and industry from Central Asia and beyond.
Keynote speakers include
- Wolfgang Herrmann, honorary president, New Uzbekistan University
- Rita Almeida, manager of global education practice (Europe and Central Asia), World Bank
- Ilesanmi Adesida, provost, Nazarbayev University
- Alan Ruby, senior fellow, Alliance for Higher Education and Democracy, University of Pennsylvania
More than 200 delegates from across Central Asia and beyond will delve into pressing issues and innovative solutions shaping the future of higher education in the region. From reimagining curricula to meeting the demands of local labour markets, discussions will be anchored in a commitment to sustainability and achieving the region's long-term targets.
Agenda themes:
- Young universities establishing themselves as esteemed institutions
- Aligning curricula with labour market demands
- Critical role of reputation in talent attraction and retention
- New partnership models for new models of institution
Phil Baty, Times Higher Education’s chief global affairs officer, said: “This is a truly exciting time for higher education in Central Asia: the region is attracting more international students; its research base is rapidly developing; it has ambitious universities committed to reform and to meeting high international benchmarks; and it offers a real geographical focal point at the bridge between east and west.”
Prof Dr Wolfgang Herrmann, president at New Uzbekistan University, said: “The Central Asia Universities Forum is a significant milestone that reflects our collective ambition for the future of education in this region. Witnessing the dedication and passion of those involved, I believe that our collective efforts to elevate academic standards and drive innovation will undoubtedly contribute to a broader dialogue on educational excellence and global practices.
"By sharing our experiences and contributing to international discussions, we are reinforcing Central Asia’s role as a significant player in global education.
"It is both an honour and a responsibility to be part of this transformative journey. The ideas and initiatives emerging from this forum will undoubtedly contribute to a more innovative and impactful educational future for Central Asia and the world, fostering lasting change and inspiring future generations."
More information about the event is available here. Tickets for delegates representing a university, association, public sector or NGO are US$200 and tickets for delegates representing a corporate organisation are US$249. Tickets are available