Uzbek President Sets New Priorities for AI Development
Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev outlined new priorities for artificial intelligence, focusing on computing infrastructure, AI adoption, data quality and workforce development.
Uzbekistan's President, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, has outlined new priorities for the nation's artificial intelligence (AI) development after reviewing a presentation on the current state and future direction of the country's AI ecosystem.
According to the presidential press service, the presentation highlighted key areas for growth: enhancing computing infrastructure, broadening the practical application of AI, and cultivating human resources.
Officials noted that Uzbekistan has advanced 25 positions to 62nd place in the global AI readiness index in recent years. The country's ambition is to break into the top 50 by 2030. Additionally, plans include boosting the value of AI-powered software products and services to US$1.5 billion, expanding infrastructure, and launching over 200 new projects.
President Mirziyoyev emphasized that the rapid evolution of AI necessitates continuous monitoring of global and regional trends, swift adoption of cutting-edge technologies, and the introduction of fresh initiatives.
A significant portion of the presentation was dedicated to the expansion of computing infrastructure. Last month, a supercomputer utilizing NVIDIA technology was activated at the Digital Government data center. This system achieved a global ranking of 321st in performance. Within a month of its launch, the computing cluster reached 90% capacity, underscoring the high demand for such resources.
Uzbekistan has already invested US$24 million in modern computing infrastructure. A proposal for an additional US$70 million has been put forward to further expand the existing computing cluster. The presentation also detailed funding sources, equipment delivery timelines, and plans for data center construction in Karakalpakstan, involving foreign investors.
Developing a high-quality database received particular attention. The President directed ministries and government agencies to inventory their information resources, ensuring data completeness, accuracy, and integration. They are also tasked with creating sector-specific datasets essential for the effective functioning of AI systems.
By the close of this year, the number of AI projects in economic and social sectors is projected to exceed 100. Currently, AI solutions are under development for various fields, including healthcare, energy, transport, customs administration, legal services, public safety, environmental protection, and geology.
To bolster these initiatives, collaboration will be intensified with IT Park residents, startups, and over 20 artificial intelligence laboratories. The number of AI-focused resident companies is anticipated to reach 300 this year, generating services valued at 2 trillion soums and exports totaling US$160 million.
Workforce development was another central theme. More than 1.5 million individuals have obtained specialized AI certificates. Furthermore, 900 executives, over 3,000 civil servants, 1,000 bank employees, and 200 advisers have completed AI training programs.
Over the next two years, the government aims to fully implement the "Five Million AI Leaders" project and create contemporary educational materials for students at all levels, teachers, and the general public.
Sector-specific hackathons and competitions have already taken place in Nukus, Samarkand, Termez, Bukhara, Ferghana, Andijan, Gulistan, and Jizzakh. A "Best Artificial Intelligence Startup" competition has also been launched. The President instructed officials to organize similar events across all regions of the country.
The presentation also reviewed the performance of AI advisers to regional governors. Out of 500 applicants, 222 specialists have been selected. President Mirziyoyev emphasized the importance of engaging more young professionals with international education and modern technological skills, and evaluating their work against specific performance indicators. He also directed the creation of a dedicated digital platform to monitor the advisers' activities and projects.
International cooperation was highlighted as well. Officials stated that Uzbekistan's membership in the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO) is expected to facilitate the adoption of advanced technologies, the development of large language models, joint projects with foreign technology companies and research institutions, and the training of highly qualified specialists.
Concluding the presentation, the President issued directives to continue expanding computing capacity, increase the practical application of AI across various sectors, enhance data quality, support talented youth and startups, and strengthen international cooperation.