DEVELOPMENT TRENDS AND REFORM PROCESSES IN UZBEKISTAN'S PRESCHOOL EDUCATION SYSTEM SINCE INDEPENDENCE
Keywords:
preschool education, educational reforms, early childhood development, Uzbekistan, educational policy, preschool institutions, quality education.Abstract
Preschool education is recognized worldwide as a fundamental stage in the formation of human capital and sustainable social development. Since gaining independence in 1991, Uzbekistan has undertaken a series of reforms aimed at improving the accessibility, quality, and effectiveness of preschool education. This article examines the evolution of preschool education reforms in Uzbekistan from independence to the present period. The study analyzes legislative frameworks, institutional transformations, educational modernization, teacher training initiatives, and the expansion of preschool coverage. The findings reveal that reforms implemented particularly after 2017 significantly increased access to preschool education and improved educational quality through the introduction of modern curricula, innovative teaching methods, and public-private partnerships. The study concludes that continued investment in infrastructure, teacher development, and digital transformation remains essential for achieving sustainable progress in early childhood education.
References
1. Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On Education”.
2. Presidential Decree No. PF-5198 on Measures to Improve the Management of Preschool Education (2017).
3. Ministry of Preschool and School Education of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Statistical Reports (2017–2025).
4. UNESCO (2023). Global Education Monitoring Report.
5. UNICEF (2022). Early Childhood Development Programs in Central Asia.
6. World Bank (2021). Investing in Early Childhood Development.
7. National Development Strategy of Uzbekistan – 2030.
8. State Curriculum “Ilk Qadam” for Preschool Education Institutions.
