Official statement

In recent days, information in various interpretations has been disseminated on some social networks and information platforms about the alleged introduction of the practice of "voluntary and compulsory sponsorship" at the Nizami National Pedagogical University in Uzbekistan. The University's press service provides the following information on this issue. First of all, it should be noted that some of the information disseminated does not fully reflect reality and may lead to a misinterpretation of the content and essence of the reforms being carried out at the university. Today, the competitiveness of higher education institutions in the global educational arena is assessed not only by the quality of education, but also by such important indicators as international academic cooperation, the effectiveness of scientific research, the activity of attracting grants and the effective use of foreign investment. Such prestigious international rating systems as QS, Times Higher Education, Best Global Universities, Academic Ranking of World Universities, recognized worldwide, recognize these factors as strategic indicators of the development of higher education institutions. First of all, it should be noted that some widespread information does not fully reflect reality and may lead to a misinterpretation of the content and essence of the reforms being carried out at the university. From this point of view, modern indicators of academic activity have been introduced at the Nizami National Pedagogical University in Uzbekistan, aimed at expanding the integration of professors and teachers into the international scientific and academic community, encouraging their participation in grants and international scientific projects. The content of this indicator is not related to fundraising or demanding financial payments from professors and lecturers. This is, first of all, an incentive mechanism aimed at expanding the opportunities of each professor and lecturer to attract foreign resources or investments into their academic activities through international scientific cooperation. Such academic and financial resources can be implemented in the following forms, widely used in legal and international practice: scientific literature, textbooks, and e-learning resources provided by foreign universities; travel expenses covered by a foreign partner organization for participation in international conferences, symposiums and scientific forums; advanced training courses, internships, and study programs organized by foreign universities or research centers; grant funds or scientific resources allocated by foreign partners within the framework of international research projects; short-term academic exchange programs, internships, or inviting researchers to foreign universities; educational and research projects supported by Erasmus+, DAAD, the British Council, KOICA, JICA, and other international organizations. The main goal of this initiative is to involve professors and lecturers more actively in the international scientific community, develop their skills in writing grant applications and participating in international projects, as well as consistently increase the international prestige and scientific potential of the university. The University administration consistently continues all initiatives aimed at developing international cooperation between professors and lecturers, establishing stable academic ties with foreign universities and research centers, as well as supporting scientific activities. The National Pedagogical University of Uzbekistan named after Nizami, adhering to the principles of openness and transparency, declares its continued readiness to provide the public with objective and reliable information. Press service of the National Pedagogical University of Uzbekistan named after Nizami