Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed proposals aimed at improving governance in the fields of culture and the arts, as well as further developing handicrafts.

The Head of State emphasized that the nation’s rich spiritual heritage requires the introduction of modern management and financing methods, taking into account the growing intellectual and cultural needs of society. Special attention will be given to adopting advanced international practices, expanding public–private partnership mechanisms in the operation of cultural centers, and implementing startup projects that support creative initiatives.

Plans include creating conditions for the production of domestic historical, scientific, and animated content that will enhance the country’s international image and strengthen patriotic values among young people.

One of the key initiatives is the development of the Batyr Zakirov National Institute of Pop Art. The program envisions the establishment of scholarships, the organization of an international pop art competition, and opportunities for top graduates to pursue master’s degrees abroad. Talented students will also receive support to participate in prestigious international contests.

In Andijan Region, the legacy of People’s Artist Sherali Jurayev will be honored with the creation of the Sherali Jurayev Higher School of Music and Arts on the basis of a specialized art school. It will include a scientific and creative laboratory and a “golden collection” of the artist’s songs. The initiative also provides for an annual national song television competition, along with the opening of a modern recording and video studio for young performers.

To expand access to the best works of national and world art, symphony and folk orchestras will be gradually established across the regions. The first ensembles will be created in Ferghana Region, equipped with modern instruments, sound and lighting systems, stage costumes, and all necessary infrastructure.

It was noted that although Uzbekistan already has the State Symphony Orchestra and eight professional orchestras under the Philharmonic, their activities are largely limited to the capital and national-level events. The President instructed that concert tours be organized across the regions to bring high art to a wider audience.

The development of the creative economy was also highlighted. Currently, the sector includes 14,000 enterprises employing about 100,000 people. Over the next five years, its output is expected to double, raising its share of GDP to 5%. To achieve this, Uzbekistan will draw on the experience of leading countries and strengthen cooperation with international organizations such as UNESCO, UNCTAD, and WIPO.

Handicrafts were identified as a particularly promising area. In partnership with the British Royal Foundation, an academic platform will be established in Tashkent to train master’s students, conduct research, and develop teaching materials. More than 3,000 artisans will gradually be involved, and in the future, the project will evolve into a full-fledged School of Applied Arts.

In Bukhara — which has joined the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in the category “Crafts and Folk Arts” — the city will host its first Contemporary Art Biennale this year, featuring 70 artists from 40 countries.

Special attention was also given to Karakalpakstan, where thousands of young people are engaged in traditional crafts. In Nukus, the Istiklol Park will be transformed into a creative cluster, including the Aral School — an educational space for artisans and designers that will combine tradition with modern approaches.

The President instructed the relevant ministries and agencies to ensure high-quality implementation of all proposals and to carry out the planned initiatives at the highest organizational level.