The Second Forum of Rectors of Universities of Uzbekistan and Italy Held in Rome
On February 18, the Second Forum of rectors of higher education institutions of Uzbekistan and Italy was held in the capital of Italy — Rome, at Roma Tre University. The event, aimed at further deepening scientific and innovation cooperation, helped elevate dialogue and practical collaboration between the academic communities of the two countries to a new level.
The opening ceremony was attended by Uzbekistan’s Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation Kunguratboy Sharipov, Italy’s Minister of Universities and Research Anna Maria Bernini, Director of the National Agency for Quality Assurance in Education under the President of Uzbekistan Bakhtiyor Yuldashev, Rector of Roma Tre University Professor Massimiliano Fiorucci, President of the Association of Italian State and Private Universities (CHRUI) Professor Laura Ramacciotti, as well as leaders of higher education institutions from both countries.
In his speech, Minister Kunguratboy Sharipov emphasized that cooperation between Uzbekistan and Italy in education and science has deep historical roots. He noted that today the two countries are actively developing broad cooperation in education, science, technology, cultural exchange, tourism, and economic partnership.
The minister also highlighted that the Turin Polytechnic University in Tashkent and the University of Pisa branches serve as practical examples of Uzbekistan–Italy educational cooperation. Over the past two years, more than 100 faculty members have completed internships at Italian universities, while more than 750 students in Uzbekistan are studying the Italian language.
During the event, the results of the joint scientific competition between the two countries were presented. Announced in January 2025, the competition aims to support joint research in modern scientific fields, strengthen scientific capacity, and deepen international scientific integration.
Out of 199 proposals submitted within the competition, the 10 highest-scoring joint scientific projects were selected for funding by the Uzbekistan–Italy Joint Governing Committee. These projects will be implemented by leading universities and research centers of both countries.
In addition, new bilateral cooperation agreements were signed between universities of Uzbekistan and Italy.
