Four-year EU-UNDP Project Leaves Legacy of Empowerment for Afghan Citizens in Surkhandarya
25 June 2026 — The Delegation of the European Union to Uzbekistan, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of the Republic of Uzbekistan (MHESI) today marked the successful completion of the project “Enhancing the Capacities of Surkhandarya Region to Educate and Train Afghan Citizens.” The milestone was celebrated during a vibrant Career Festival and closing ceremony at the Educational Centre for Training Afghan Citizens (ECTAC) in Termez.
H.E. Toivo Klaar, Ambassador of the European Union to the Republic of Uzbekistan, said: “The European Union is deeply committed to investing in people and unlocking human potential. This initiative is a testament to the strength of the EU-Uzbekistan partnership and our shared vision for a prosperous, interconnected region. The real legacy we celebrate today in Termez is not just the impressive infrastructure we leave behind, but the enduring spirit of collaboration and the bright economic futures these talented graduates will build for themselves and their wider communities.”
The project’s achievements showcase a profound legacy of empowerment and integration. Over 700 students gained access to bachelor’s degree programs and specialized technical training in high-demand sectors such as IT, tourism, and agribusiness. Crucially, the initiative injected vitality into the local economy through an expansive mini-grant program, equipping graduates with the seed capital and equipment needed to launch and scale their own businesses. These new enterprises are now actively creating jobs, providing valuable services, and fostering a shared economic dynamism that benefits both Afghan graduates and their host communities in Surkhandarya.
Mr. Ismatilla Ergashev, Special Representative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Afghanistan, noted: “Uzbekistan has always championed a policy of good neighborliness and constructive engagement. This collaborative project stands as a shining example of our nation’s commitment to regional prosperity. By working alongside the European Union and the UN, we have created an environment where mutual respect, education, and shared economic opportunities lay the foundation for a stable and thriving Central Asia.”
Mr. Uktam Salomov, Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of the Republic of Uzbekistan, also stated: “Over the past four years, ECTAC has evolved into a premier hub of modern learning and innovation. By integrating advanced curricula and digital platforms, this project has not only empowered hundreds of students with vital professional skills but has also significantly upgraded the educational capacity of the Surkhandarya region, creating a sustainable, high-quality model for inclusive education.”
All these efforts culminated in a Career Festival, which successfully bridged the gap between talented graduates and local employers, forging strong cross-cultural professional networks. Furthermore, the project ensured lasting institutional growth by officially handing over state-of-the-art assets, including a comprehensive Digital Learning Platform, a modern IT Hub, and the fully equipped EU Knowledge Centre, to ECTAC, permanently elevating the educational infrastructure of the region.
Mr. Oybek Ashurov, Deputy Khokim of Surkhandarya Region, remarked: "Surkhandarya is steadily strengthening its role as a gateway for regional cooperation, trade and investment. Initiatives such as this project demonstrate how education and skills development can contribute directly to local economic growth and create new opportunities for both Afghan citizens residing in our region and the host communities. We highly value the partnership with the European Union and UNDP and remain committed to supporting initiatives that promote sustainable regional development."
Ms. Akiko Fujii, UNDP Resident Representative in Uzbekistan, emphasized: “The most lasting impact of this project is the opportunity it has created for people to build better futures. By expanding access to education, skills training and entrepreneurship support, we have given Afghan citizens and particularly women the tools to strengthen their livelihoods and contribute to the economic development of Surkhandarya.”
As the project officially concludes, its achievements establish a lasting blueprint for inclusive, community-driven development in the region. The European Union and UNDP reaffirm their enduring partnership with the Government of Uzbekistan, united in a shared vision to foster vibrant economies, champion human potential, and ensure that the legacy of mutual prosperity continues to thrive in Surkhandarya and beyond.
Background
EU-funded project “Enhancing the Capacities of Surkhandarya Region to Educate and Train Afghan Citizens” with total budget of 2 million euros and implemented by UNDP in close partnership with MHESI and ECTAC, this forward-looking initiative was launched in 2022 to unlock new potential. Over the past four years, the project has served as a catalyst for human capital development, offering higher education, advanced vocational training, and robust entrepreneurship support. It has successfully empowered Afghan citizens residing in the region while simultaneously enriching the local economic and social landscape of Surkhandarya.