President: “Harvard School” to open, targeted preparation for top-10 universities begins

At a recent selector meeting chaired by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, one of the most pressing issues in education was discussed — the low rate of Uzbek youth admitted to top universities abroad. Official statistics show that only 1% of Uzbek students studying abroad are enrolled in top-100 global universities.

The head of state emphasized that this situation can be fundamentally improved:

“Our youth have potential, talent, and ambition. If we guide them correctly, help with university selection, and organize targeted preparation, our results will multiply.”

“Harvard School” — a launchpad for future elites

In this regard, the President announced the signing of a decree to launch a new national program titled “President’s Gifted Children” and to open the “Harvard School.” This educational institution will hold a special status and operate as the International School named after Al-Beruni.

Starting from the 2024/2025 academic year, 60 of the most gifted 8th-grade graduates will be selected to study here. They will receive targeted preparation for admission to the world’s top-10 universities, including Harvard, Yale, Columbia, Oxford, and others.

Targeted selection, mentorship, and strategy

Within the program, 208 mentor-teachers from Presidential and specialized schools will be assigned to general education schools. Each year, they will identify and prepare 3,000 of the most capable students nationwide for top university admissions.

Experts believe this system will not only expand opportunities for Uzbek youth but also provide a solid foundation for realizing their full potential. Moreover, funds from the state budget will be directed toward efficient, locally adapted, and goal-oriented training.

In education, results matter more than cost

The President also noted that tuition fees between top-10 and top-200 universities differ by only 15–20%. This means high results can be achieved with reasonable expenses if the preparation is properly managed.

Zamin.uz editorial team believes this initiative will elevate Uzbekistan's youth presence in global education and will continue to report on the most relevant updates in this area.

How do you envision the “Harvard School”? Could it become the cradle of future leaders?

Photo: Michael Fein Harvard University Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!