Decent work opportunities and economic growth
In order to strengthen youth employment, enhance workforce readiness, and align higher and vocational education with labor market needs, a set of coordinated measures has been initiated by national authorities in cooperation with the private sector and international partners. These measures aim to create sustainable employment opportunities, improve skills development, and support economic growth.
Ensuring Fair Wages for Staff and Faculty at Navoiy State University
Navoiy State University is committed to providing fair compensation for all staff and faculty in line with national regulations and the principle of a living wage. According to Uzbekistan’s legislation, as of August 2025:
-The minimum wage is set at 1,271,000 UZS per month (Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, 2025), serving as the legal minimum employers must pay.
-The poverty threshold / minimum consumer expenditure is officially recognized as 669,000 UZS per person per month (UzDaily, 2025), used as a baseline for assessing a basic living standard.
University Policy:
Navoiy State University ensures that:
All staff and faculty are paid above the official minimum wage, guaranteeing that salaries exceed the national poverty threshold.
Regular salary reviews are conducted to adjust compensation in line with inflation, local living costs, and government recommendations.
Special consideration is given to staff supporting families, aligning with the principle of a living wage sufficient for a family of four.
Employment contracts explicitly comply with Uzbek labor law, ensuring transparency, social protection, and fair remuneration.
Implementation and Impact:
-Salaries for academic and administrative staff are systematically benchmarked against the national minimum wage and the poverty line to ensure basic needs are met.
-The university provides additional benefits and allowances (housing support, healthcare coverage, professional development opportunities) to supplement wages and further improve staff welfare.
-By adopting this approach, the university not only meets legal requirements but also promotes staff well-being, retention, and productivity, supporting its mission of academic excellence.
1. Employer Engagement and Labor Market Needs Assessment
In cooperation with the Agency for Vocational Education, Navoi State University facilitates employer participation in a structured survey designed to assess workforce demand and employment opportunities for young people.
The survey: https://forms.gle/4mFT8FeD7eSozhM49
Targets private-sector employers operating at regional and national levels
Collects data on skills needs, job vacancies, and internship opportunities
Supports evidence-based planning for graduate employment
The results of the survey are used by NSU to improve curriculum relevance, expand work-based learning, and support graduate employability.
2. Strengthening Human Capital for Priority Economic Sectors
Navoi State University prioritizes the training of highly qualified specialists with strong intellectual and professional competencies for priority sectors of the economy, particularly in science, engineering, and technology-related fields.
NSU actively monitors and aligns its academic programs with international best practices through collaboration with leading foreign universities, including:
Óbuda University (Hungary), contributing expertise in engineering and applied sciences
Tsukuba University, supporting curriculum development in exact and natural sciences
These partnerships contribute to curriculum modernization, academic staff development, and research cooperation at Navoi State University.
3. Graduate Employment and Digital Career Support Ecosystem
Each year, a significant number of NSU graduates enter the labor market. To support their transition to employment, Navoi State University is developing a digital career support ecosystem that functions as a bridge between graduates and employers.
The system provides:
Digital profiles reflecting students’ academic performance and competencies
Access to job vacancies and internship opportunities offered by partner enterprises
Matching tools connecting employer requirements with graduate qualifications
This initiative enhances transparency in recruitment and supports both students and employers in achieving effective employment outcomes.
4. Development of Dual Education and Employer-Based Training
Navoi State University actively supports the expansion of dual education models in cooperation with technical colleges (technikum) and industry partners.
Key measures include:
Coordination with enterprises implementing dual education programs combining academic study with workplace training
Promotion of national incentive mechanisms, including preferential financing of up to 5 billion UZS for a period of seven years for participating enterprises
Support for enterprises receiving additional points in national entrepreneurship ratings due to engagement in dual education
Advocacy for extended 1% social tax incentives for employers hiring technical college students
These measures contribute to improving practical skills acquisition and enhancing employment outcomes.
5. Financial Support and Incentives for Students
Starting from 2026, Navoi State University supports the implementation of national policies providing financial assistance to students enrolled in dual education programs.
In particular:
Approximately 100,000 technical college students nationwide will receive stipends for the first time
Students demonstrating excellent academic performance and strong professional skills will be eligible for increased stipend amounts
NSU integrates these mechanisms into its student support framework to encourage academic excellence and professional competence.
6. Seminar-Training Aimed at Graduate Employment and Youth Entrepreneurship at Navoi State University
In cooperation with JSC “Uzmilliybank” (Navoi Branch) and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan, Navoi State University organized a seminar-training entitled “From a Business Idea to a Ready Project”, aimed at supporting the employment and entrepreneurial engagement of graduating students.
The event was conducted as part of the University’s ongoing efforts to strengthen graduate employability, promote youth entrepreneurship, and contribute to sustainable economic growth.
Objectives of the Seminar-Training
The primary objectives of the seminar-training were to:
Support graduating students in transitioning from education to employment
Promote entrepreneurship as a viable employment pathway
Provide practical information on business development and financing opportunities
Strengthen cooperation between the University, financial institutions, and business support organizations
7. Organization of a Review-Competition on Public Oversight of Occupational Health and Safety at Navoi State University
In order to improve working conditions, prevent occupational accidents, and strengthen the prevention of work-related illnesses, Navoi State University (NSU) is organizing a review-competition entitled “Organization of Public Oversight in Occupational Health and Safety.”
The initiative is implemented in accordance with Item 12 of the Targeted Program approved on 12 June 2025 by the Republican Council of the Trade Union of Education and Science Employees of Uzbekistan, in cooperation with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
Purpose of the Review-Competition
The main objectives of the competition are to:
Enhance occupational health and safety culture among university staff
Strengthen compliance with workplace safety requirements
Develop and improve mechanisms of public oversight in occupational health and safety
Contribute to the prevention of workplace accidents and occupational diseases
The competition is open to employees from all faculties, departments, divisions, and centers of Navoi State University, ensuring broad institutional participation and inclusive engagement.
Date, Venue, and Format
Date: 6 December 2025
Venue: Main Building, Room 402, Navoi State University
Format: The review-competition will be conducted in the form of a written test assessment
Incentives and Awards
Based on the competition results, the following awards will be granted:
1st Place: Cash prize equivalent to five times the Minimum Wage for Labor Protection (MHTEKM)
2nd Place: Cash prize equivalent to four times the MHTEKM
3rd Place: Cash prize equivalent to three times the MHTEKM, along with commemorative gifts from the University Trade Union Committee
These incentives are intended to encourage active participation and recognize excellence in occupational safety awareness.
Responsible Unit and Contact Information
The event is coordinated by the Civil Protection and Occupational Health and Safety Department of Navoi State University.
Contact number: +998 93 317 07 61
8. Navoi State University’s Contribution to Regional Measures Aimed at Reducing Unemployment and Crime in Navoi Region
Navoi State University (NSU) actively contributes to regional efforts aimed at transforming Navoi Region into an area free from unemployment and crime. In alignment with national socio-economic development priorities and the objectives of Decent Work and Economic Growth goals, the University collaborates with local authorities and community governance structures to support youth employment, social stability, and sustainable regional development.
NSU’s Participation in Community-Level Governance Initiatives
As part of these efforts, NSU representatives participated in an open dialogue held at the Karmana District Administration, organized with the involvement of department heads and members of the “Mahalla Seven” (Mahalla Yettiligi) system.
The University’s involvement focused on:
Providing analytical and academic support to assess employment-related challenges
Sharing expertise on youth employment, skills development, and social prevention mechanisms
Strengthening coordination between higher education institutions and community governance bodies
Analytical Support and Monitoring by Navoi State University
Drawing on its academic and research capacity, Navoi State University contributed to:
The analysis of the operational effectiveness of Mahalla Seven members
The assessment of attendance, task fulfillment, and performance indicators
Identification of socio-economic factors influencing unemployment, crime, and family instability
NSU specialists supported evidence-based discussion by linking local observations with broader labor market trends and youth employment data.
Capacity Building and Improvement Measures
Based on the joint analysis, concrete recommendations were formulated to enhance the effectiveness of community-level governance mechanisms. Navoi State University contributed by:
Proposing training and capacity-building initiatives for Mahalla Seven representatives
Recommending improved monitoring and evaluation tools
Suggesting closer integration of education, employment services, and community support systems
These measures aim to improve institutional performance and ensure more effective outcomes in employment promotion and social risk prevention.
9. Implementation of New National Measures to Support Graduate Employment at Navoi State University
In accordance with the Presidential Decree No. PQ–328 dated 3 November 2025, amendments and additions were introduced to Decree No. PQ–61 “On Additional Measures to Facilitate the Employment of Graduates of Higher Education Institutions.” These regulatory changes establish a new framework of measures aimed at strengthening graduate employment, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
Navoi State University (NSU) aligns its institutional policies and practices with the updated national framework and actively participates in the implementation of these measures to enhance graduate employability.
Enhanced Financial Support Mechanisms for Graduates and Employers
Under the updated decree, mechanisms for financial support of graduates and the enterprises employing them have been significantly improved.
Navoi State University supports the implementation of these mechanisms by:
Facilitating cooperation between graduates and entrepreneurial entities
Informing graduates and partner employers about available preferential financial instruments
Encouraging participation in employment and entrepreneurship support programs
Expansion of the “Kelajakka Qadam” Program
The “Kelajakka Qadam” (Step to the Future) program has been expanded across commercial banks, increasing access to financial resources for graduates nationwide.
At Navoi State University:
-Graduates are guided on participation procedures within the program
-The University promotes the program through career services and entrepreneurship initiatives
-Cooperation with partner banks supports graduate-led business initiatives.
10. National Socio-Economic and Healthcare Reforms and Their Relevance to Navoi State University
Comprehensive reforms aimed at ensuring sustainable economic development, increasing employment and income levels, providing young people with modern knowledge and values, and strengthening public health are being implemented at an accelerated pace in Uzbekistan. These reforms form an important socio-economic context within which Navoi State University (NSU) carries out its educational, research, and social engagement activities.
Investment in Healthcare and Human Capital Development
In recent years, significant financial resources have been allocated to the healthcare sector, reflecting the government’s strategic focus on human capital development.
-A total of 230 trillion UZS (approximately USD 20 billion) has been invested in healthcare
-In the current year alone, 45 trillion UZS has been allocated
-Compared to 2016, healthcare funding has increased sixfold
These investments directly contribute to improving population health, labor productivity, and long-term economic sustainability.
Expansion and Modernization of Healthcare Infrastructure
As a result of increased funding:
-187 new polyclinics and hospitals have been commissioned across the country
-1,244 healthcare facilities have been reconstructed, modernized, and equipped with advanced medical technology
The capacity of primary healthcare institutions has increased by 60 percent, significantly improving access to medical services at the community level.
Decentralization of Advanced Medical Services
Healthcare reforms have also led to the regionalization of high-tech medical services:
-More than 400 advanced diagnostic and treatment methods, previously available mainly in the capital, are now provided in regional healthcare facilities
-Hundreds of complex medical procedures have been transferred to regional centers
-Minimally invasive surgeries are now performed at the district level
-This decentralization improves healthcare accessibility and reduces regional disparities.
Role and Contribution of Navoi State University
Navoi State University contributes to and benefits from these reforms through:
-Training qualified specialists in biology, chemistry, health-related sciences, and pedagogy
-Conducting research and academic analysis related to public health, environmental health, and social well-being
-Supporting regional development by supplying skilled graduates to healthcare, education, and public service sectors
-Promoting health awareness and preventive education among students and the wider community
Improved healthcare infrastructure and services also create new employment opportunities for NSU graduates and strengthen conditions for decent work.
11.“Mayor and Youth” Meeting and Employment Fair at Navoi State University
As part of ongoing efforts to promote youth employment, career guidance, and active civic engagement, a meeting entitled “Mayor and Youth” was held at Navoi State University (NSU) with the participation of the Mayor of Navoi City, Mr. Dilmurod Ergashev.
The event reflects Navoi State University’s commitment to strengthening cooperation between local government, higher education institutions, and the labor market.
The meeting was attended by Deputy mayors of Navoi City, Graduates of higher education institutions, Senior management of Navoi State University, Representatives of relevant government agencies and organizations
This broad participation ensured a multi-stakeholder dialogue focused on youth employment and professional development.
The event was officially opened by the Mayor of Navoi City, who highlighted:
The wide range of opportunities created for young people in Uzbekistan
State support for youth education, vocational training, and skill acquisition
Conditions enabling young people to fully realize their intellectual and professional potential
These remarks emphasized the strategic importance of investing in youth as a driver of sustainable development.
During the meeting, participants discussed key issues related to:
Employment of university graduates
Career guidance and professional orientation
Strengthening cooperation between employment centers and employer enterprises
Expanding internship and practical training programs
Creating new job opportunities for young people
Concrete tasks and recommendations were identified to enhance practical support for graduates and improve employment outcomes.
A key feature of the meeting was direct interaction between young participants and the city mayor. Students and graduates raised questions and presented proposals concerning:
Employment opportunities
Professional development pathways
Internship and training programs
Their feedback was carefully considered, and relevant explanations, recommendations, and guidance were provided by officials and specialists.
Organization of the Employment and Labor Fair
Following the meeting, an “Employment and Labor Fair” was organized specifically for graduates of higher education institutions.
Participants included:
Large industrial enterprises operating in Navoi City
Small and medium-sized businesses
Service sector organizations
Employers presented information on available job vacancies, recruitment requirements, and internship opportunities.
During the fair Graduates engaged in direct communication with employers in their fields of interest; Opportunities for employment and internships were explored; Specialists from the Employment Center provided consultations on Labor contracts; Career guidance; Legal and procedural aspects of employment
Navoi State University facilitated these interactions as part of its graduate support services.
12. Career Day at Navoi State University
Navoi State University organized a “Career Day” Job Fair aimed at supporting graduate employment and promoting decent work opportunities. The event involved over 400 graduating students of the 2024/2025 academic year.
Around 40 enterprises, organizations, and institutions participated in the fair, presenting available job vacancies and career opportunities. Students had the opportunity to communicate directly with employers, learn about labor market requirements, and explore employment and internship options.
13. “TalabaExpo – 2025” Career Fair Held in Navoi
On September 18, 2025, the “TalabaExpo–2025” career fair was held at the Alisher Navoi Park in Navoi as part of the “Step into the Future” program.
Scope of the Event and Participants:
Over 120 companies and organizations participated in the event.
Nearly 1,300 job vacancies were offered to students.
A total of 6,461 students attended, with 2,132 students having one-on-one interviews with employers.
The fair featured seminars, training sessions, business meetings, and startup project presentations.
Participants also visited the Navoi Free Industrial-Economic Zone to observe production processes and learn about opportunities available for youth.
Four higher education institutions actively participated in the event.