A New Bridge for Public Diplomacy: The Uzbekistan–Finland Friendship Society Officially Launched

The meeting opened with a comprehensive review of preparations for the University's forthcoming state institutional accreditation. Council members assessed the progress achieved to date and outlined further measures to strengthen academic quality assurance, internal monitoring mechanisms, documentation management, and institutional performance in accordance with international best practices.

Another major agenda item focused on the 2026/2027 undergraduate scholarship allocation policy for full-time study programmes. The Council approved the scholarship distribution regulations, emphasizing the principles of transparency, fairness, and support for talented and high-achieving students.

The Council also reviewed the current status of the University's laboratories, evaluating their scientific and practical capacity, student engagement, and technological infrastructure. Priority objectives were identified to further integrate laboratory activities with industry collaboration, innovation, and research.
In line with the tasks set out in the Presidential Resolution of the Republic of Uzbekistan (PQ-308, 20 October 2025), the Council discussed the effective organisation of the "E Voh" Olympiad, highlighting its importance in fostering academic excellence and youth engagement.

Special attention was also devoted to the organisation of the "Graduate–2026" ceremony. Relevant departments were instructed to ensure the high-quality preparation of graduation documents and to deliver a meaningful, well-organised, and memorable diploma award ceremony.

The Council further analysed the University's six-month research performance, reviewing the quality of scientific publications, participation in international journals, innovative research projects, grant activities, and international research partnerships. Future priorities aimed at strengthening the University's research ecosystem were also identified.

In addition, the monitoring results of doctoral candidates, PhD researchers, and independent researchers were presented, followed by recommendations designed to further enhance the University's research capacity and academic potential.

Under additional agenda items, the Council considered the outcomes of faculty professional development programmes, the recommendation of educational and scientific publications for release, the preparation of documentation for the academic title of Associate Professor, and matters related to supporting the research activities of newly admitted independent researchers.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the University Council adopted the necessary resolutions on all agenda items, reaffirming its commitment to continuous institutional improvement, academic excellence, and international competitiveness.

During the seminars, researchers from the Departments of Pedagogy, Economics and Business Management, and Industrial Management and Digital Technologies presented the outcomes of their ongoing research conducted under the guidance of their academic supervisors.

The discussions provided a comprehensive evaluation of the relevance of dissertation topics, the originality of research findings, practical significance, publication progress, and the planned stages of future investigations. Particular attention was given to ensuring that each study aligns with contemporary scientific standards and contributes meaningfully to its respective field.

As part of the monitoring process, participants received expert feedback and constructive recommendations, while priority directions for the next phase of their scientific work were identified to further enhance the quality and impact of their research.

Graduate students specializing in Music and Arts, Foreign Language and Literature, and Pedagogy confidently presented their research, demonstrating a strong integration of theoretical knowledge with practical solutions.

During the defense sessions, participants engaged in comprehensive scholarly discussions on contemporary issues in linguistics, literary studies, linguocultural studies, pragmalinguistics, foreign language teaching methodology, music pedagogy, and modern approaches to arts education.

The presented research addressed a range of timely and significant topics, including language and communication in the era of artificial intelligence, intercultural communication, innovative educational technologies, and modern approaches to teaching national and global cultural heritage. These issues were examined through rigorous scientific inquiry, reflecting current developments in education and research.

The defended theses not only represent valuable academic contributions but also offer practical recommendations with strong potential for implementation in educational practice. Such research contributes to strengthening the integration of science, education, and professional practice, facilitating the adaptation of international best practices to the national education system, and enhancing the overall effectiveness of pedagogical activities.

As part of the visit, Dr. Ali Houshmand and Mr. Jalil Bami, President of Milanj Diamonds, held a high-level meeting with the leadership of Nordic International University to discuss the future prospects of academic cooperation between the two countries.

The discussions focused on advancing joint academic programs, enhancing the implementation of double-degree initiatives, and further integrating curricula to align educational outcomes with international standards and evolving labor market demands.

Particular attention was given to the formation of a highly qualified faculty body for the joint programs, the establishment of rigorous academic and pedagogical qualification requirements, and the assurance of educational quality in accordance with international accreditation standards. The parties also exchanged views on expanding academic opportunities for students and fostering a more globally oriented learning environment.

The meeting reaffirmed the shared commitment of both sides to strengthening educational cooperation, promoting academic excellence, and creating sustainable pathways for international engagement and innovation in higher education.