Government Proposes 1.7x Increase in PhD Scholarships for Priority Fields

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Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has approved a major overhaul of the country’s postgraduate education system, including a 1.7-fold increase in stipends for PhD candidates in priority scientific fields, according to a directive issued by the Higher Attestation Commission and the Academy of Sciences. The reforms, announced on May 26, 2026, aim to strengthen the nation’s scientific workforce amid a push for digital transformation and academic integrity.

The new measures—part of a broader strategy to elevate Uzbekistan’s research capabilities—include annual allocations of additional funding for doctoral programs aligned with national development priorities. While exact figures have not been disclosed in official statements, sources indicate the stipend hike is intended to attract top talent and reduce brain drain in key sectors such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and renewable energy.

Structural Changes to Postgraduate Training

The reforms build on Uzbekistan’s 2017 transition to a two-tier postgraduate system, which introduced basic doctoral studies (leading to a PhD) and advanced doctoral studies (leading to a Doctor of Science degree). Under the new directive, stipends for basic doctoral candidates will now be raised by 70%, while advanced doctoral stipends will be adjusted to reflect the higher qualifications of candidates pursuing Doctor of Science degrees.

Previously, basic doctoral stipends were tied to the base salary of a junior researcher, while advanced doctoral stipends matched those of senior researchers with a PhD. The latest adjustments signal a shift toward competitive compensation, particularly for fields deemed critical to Uzbekistan’s economic diversification and digitalization goals.

Broader Implications for Science and Industry

Analysts suggest the reforms align with Mirziyoyev’s long-standing emphasis on science as a driver of economic growth. Since assuming office in 2016, the president has prioritized investments in research infrastructure, including the establishment of specialized innovation hubs and partnerships with international universities. The stipend increase follows a 2025 decree expanding scholarships for Uzbek students in global STEM programs, further signaling the government’s commitment to nurturing high-skilled researchers.

However, challenges remain. Uzbekistan’s scientific community has historically faced low retention rates among doctoral graduates, with many pursuing careers abroad due to limited opportunities in academia and industry. The stipend hike may help, but structural reforms—such as improved lab funding, clearer career pathways, and stronger ties between universities and private sector R&D—will be critical to sustaining progress.

Next Steps: Implementation and Monitoring

Official details on the stipend’s exact value (previously reported as equivalent to a junior researcher’s base salary of approximately 1.2 million Uzbek som per month) have not been confirmed in the latest directive. The Higher Attestation Commission, which oversees academic credentials, is expected to release implementation guidelines by mid-2026, including eligibility criteria for priority fields.

Meanwhile, the Academy of Sciences will oversee the allocation of additional funding, with a focus on interdisciplinary research projects. Observers note that transparency in disbursement and performance metrics will be key to ensuring the reforms deliver tangible results for Uzbekistan’s scientific output.

This article is based on verified reporting from UzDaily.uz and cross-referenced with Uzbekistan’s 2017 postgraduate education reforms. For further details, refer to the Higher Attestation Commission’s official statements.