Closing the Gap: Addressing Gender Inequality in Education in Uzbekistan

Despite significant progress in increasing access to education for girls and women in Uzbekistan, gender inequalities in the education system persist.

One major issue is the high rate of girls dropping out of school early, particularly in rural areas. Traditional attitudes that prioritize boys' education over girls' education, as well as economic factors, contribute to this trend. Girls who drop out of school early miss out on the opportunity to gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the workforce and in life.

Another issue is the underrepresentation of girls in certain fields of study, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects. 

Additionally, girls may face discrimination when leaving the education system and trying to find their first employment opportunities.

Servinoz from Uzbekistan, in the framework of EU project in Central Asia, DARYA, has told her story about the difficulties that young women face when completing their studies.

The government of Uzbekistan has made efforts to address these issues by implementing policies and programs to improve access to education for girls and women. These include providing scholarships and organizing stipends for girls to continue their education, and encouraging more girls to pursue careers in occupations that traditionally considered to be male-predominant.

However, more needs to be done to ensure that all girls and women in Uzbekistan have the same opportunities to succeed in education and in their future careers. This includes changing traditional attitudes that prioritize boys' education over girls' education, and providing more support and resources for girls and women to pursue their education and career goals.

Gender equality in education and equal treatment of girls' skills on the labour market is a key for building a more equitable and just society.

It is time to take steps to ensure that all girls and women have the opportunity to reach their full potential in Uzbekistan and all other countries in Central Asia.

To know more about EU DARYA project in Central Asia, click here.