As part of the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand, a presentation was held on the results of UNESCO’s Readiness Assessment Methodology project, which evaluated Uzbekistan’s preparedness for adopting artificial intelligence (AI).

The event showcased the main conclusions of research conducted by international and national experts. The findings were presented by Marc Antoine Dilhac, UNESCO international expert overseeing AI ethics and readiness for implementation.

The presentation highlighted that Uzbekistan continues to implement systematic reforms aimed at the large-scale adoption and development of AI technologies. The Presidential Decree “On Additional Measures to Further Develop Artificial Intelligence Technologies” was adopted to support the accelerated advancement of modern technologies, create favorable conditions for the widespread use of AI, attract additional investment to the sector, and improve the training system for qualified specialists.

Under the decree, by the end of 2026, at least 100 projects introducing AI technologies will be implemented across public administration, the social sector, and various branches of the economy. By 2030, more than 1 billion USD in foreign investment will be attracted to develop AI infrastructure. Starting from the 2026–2027 academic year, AI-related subjects will be introduced into the general secondary and higher education curricula. By the end of 2026, 15 AI laboratories will be established at higher education institutions.

The decree also provides for the creation of a Consultative Council under the Ministry of Digital Technologies, bringing together representatives of government agencies, business entities, compatriots abroad, and foreign experts.

By the end of 2025, the national portal ai.gov.uz will be launched to consolidate information about AI projects, programs, and startups.

Beginning in 2026, the President AI Award competition will be held to encourage young people’s interest in artificial intelligence and identify the best AI startups.

The event gathered representatives of government bodies, international organizations, academic institutions, and leading AI specialists, who discussed the study’s findings and explored ways to further strengthen cooperation between Uzbekistan and UNESCO in promoting the responsible and ethical development of artificial intelligence.

Abdulaziz Yuldoshev

(“Xalq so‘zi”)