An opening event dedicated to the introduction of dual vocational and higher education programmes for the banking sector in Uzbekistan was held at the Courtyard by Marriott hotel in Tashkent within the framework of the TexVET II project, implemented in cooperation with GIZ (German Agency for International Cooperation) and the German Sparkassenstiftung for International Cooperation.

The event brought together representatives of the Banking and Finance Sector Council and the Economy and Finance Sector Council, representatives of educational institutions, banking sector specialists, as well as national and international experts.

The main objective of the event is to develop and introduce modern dual education programmes for the banking sector based on Germany’s best practices, integrate theoretical knowledge with practical training in the educational process, and prepare qualified and competitive professionals who meet the requirements of the labour market.

Within the framework of the project, dual vocational education programmes for the banking sector are planned to be introduced at technical colleges in Andijan and Margilan, while a dual higher education programme at the bachelor’s degree level will be introduced at Tashkent State University of Economics.

One of the key areas of this process is the development and improvement of professional standards based on the needs of the banking sector. These professional standards are expected to clearly define the modern requirements for banking professionals, as well as the knowledge, skills and competencies they need, thereby bringing the content of education programmes into closer alignment with labour market needs.

Particular attention will also be paid to cooperation between educational institutions and employers to ensure the effective implementation of the dual education model. In this regard, banks’ real work processes, practical needs and requirements for qualified personnel will be taken into account when developing and updating education programmes, as well as when organising practical training.

As part of the project, it is planned to pilot dual education programmes in cooperation with Agrobank and Mikrokreditbank, study Germany’s advanced experience in this area, and involve national and international experts in the development of education programmes and professional standards.

This dual education model will strengthen cooperation among educational institutions, sector councils and employers, ensuring a strong link between “education — professional standards — practice — the labour market.”

The initiative is aimed at integrating the educational process with the real working environment, developing the practical competencies of students and learners, preparing qualified professionals who meet the modern requirements of the banking sector, and further strengthening the alignment between education quality and labour market needs.