Uzbekistan to strengthen national identity through arts, heritage, and innovation

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev was presented with a series of initiatives aimed at reforming the governance of the cultural sector, promoting traditional crafts, and supporting the creative economy. The proposals were shared during a special presentation, according to the presidential press service.

A key focus was the introduction of modern approaches – including public–private partnerships – into the operations of cultural institutions, as well as the launch of start-ups to support creative ideas. The president was also briefed on plans to develop domestic historical and animated productions to strengthen national identity and foster patriotism among youth.

New cultural platforms and creative institutions across regions

Several major initiatives were proposed during the presentation. Among them:

• Launching an international pop art competition named after Batyr Zakirov. The top graduates of the National Institute of Pop Art, named in his honor, will be eligible for scholarships to pursue master’s degrees abroad. A Batyr Zakirov scholarship will also be established.
• Opening the Sherali Jo‘rayev Higher School of Music and Arts in Andijan region. It will feature a research and creative lab, a recording studio, and an annual televised competition dedicated to national songs.
• Gradual creation of professional orchestras in various regions to support the development of symphonic and folk music. In Fergana, both a symphony orchestra and a traditional instruments orchestra will be established with full technical infrastructure.
• In Tashkent, with support from the British Royal Foundation, an academic platform dedicated to applied arts will be launched. This platform will unite more than 3,000 artisans and lay the foundation for a comprehensive educational institution.
• In Nukus, the “Istiqlol” park will be transformed into a creative cluster. It will include the Aral School – a space for artisans and designers blending traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation.
• This autumn, Bukhara will host its first-ever Biennale of Contemporary Art, bringing together 70 artists from 40 countries.

Boosting the creative economy

The presentation placed strong emphasis on the development of Uzbekistan’s creative economy. Officials noted that approximately 14,000 businesses are currently operating in the sector, employing nearly 100,000 people. Over the next five years, the country aims to increase the creative economy’s contribution to GDP to 5%.

President Mirziyoyev instructed the relevant agencies to ensure high standards in the implementation of all proposed initiatives and projects.