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Visit of the President of Finland Alexander Stubb to the Nordic International University within the framework of his official visit to Uzbekistan
October 30 , 2025
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The official visit of the President of the Republic of Finland, Alexander Stubb, to the Republic of Uzbekistan marks a new stage in strengthening the relations of friendship and strategic partnership between our countries.
At the invitation of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President Alexander Stubb is paying an official visit to our country from October 29 to November 1. This visit is regarded as an important historic event in the history of Uzbekistan–Finland relations and aims to enrich bilateral cooperation with new content and tangible results.
As part of his visit, on October 30, President Alexander Stubb of Finland visited the Nordic International University in Tashkent. The high-ranking guest was warmly welcomed by representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the university administration, the Honorary Consul of Finland in Uzbekistan, the Chairman of the University Board of Trustees Alisher Juraev, and the academic community.
The President was introduced to the Carl Gustaf Mannerheim historical photo exhibition, presented to the university by the Government of Finland, and a high-level meeting was held.
In addition, a presentation of the “Nordic EdTech & Innovation HUB” model took place. During the meeting, President Stubb expressed his satisfaction with the efforts made to strengthen the integration of education, science, and industry in Uzbekistan based on the Finnish and Nordic educational models. He also noted the progress in developing joint academic programs, dual-degree projects, and academic exchange initiatives with Finnish higher education institutions, as well as the expansion of the Work & Travel Finland program and gradual increase in student quotas.
It was emphasized that regular internships for Uzbek teachers in Finnish preschools, schools, and higher education institutions every two months, along with the organization of business forums, innovation summits, and international academic conferences in cooperation with Nordic countries, are becoming key drivers of progress in these areas.
In a friendly and sincere atmosphere, the Nordic International University expressed its commitment to further expanding the practical areas of mutual cooperation and implementing new promising initiatives in this direction.
President of Finland Alexander Stubb also got acquainted with the activities of the Nordic International School, one of the major educational initiatives of the International Nordic University.
During the visit, the work carried out at the school, which operates based on the best practices of the Finnish education model, was highly appreciated. The Head of State made important recommendations for the future development of the school and exchanged views on further improving the educational process.
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The Legacy of Amir Temur in the Minds of Youth
During the roundtable discussion, renowned Temur studies scholar, Candidate of Historical Sciences, and Professor Akbar Zamonov delivered an in-depth and analytical presentation. He elaborated on the personality of Amir Temur, his unique approaches to state governance, and the enduring relevance of his historical legacy in the modern world.
The primary objective of the event was to strengthen a sense of historical awareness and national pride among young people, while fostering key qualities such as strategic thinking, leadership, and responsibility through the example of Amir Temur.
The meeting featured an analytical lecture followed by an interactive Q&A session and open dialogue with students. This engagement not only enriched participants’ historical knowledge but also encouraged independent and critical thinking.
Students from the university’s History and Journalism programs actively participated in the roundtable discussion.
International Dialogue: Integrating Analysis and Education
During the visit, a substantive exchange of ideas took place with the esteemed guest — an international expert possessing extensive experience in journalism and educational management. The discussions focused on key global education trends, contemporary governance approaches, and emerging models of academic development, while also outlining prospective avenues for collaboration.
Particular attention was given to launching joint initiatives, including the organization of international conferences, the development of sustainable solutions, and the creation of evidence-based practical frameworks. The dialogue also emphasized knowledge exchange and the establishment of new academic platforms for students and researchers.
As a result of the meeting, mutual understandings were reached on expanding international scientific and analytical platforms, paving the way for deeper institutional cooperation.
Partnership with ETS: Advancing International Certification and Academic Mobility
The delegation was led by Anna Gutkowska-Zając, Regional Director for Eurasia and Central Asia at Educational Testing Service (ETS).
During the visit, both parties engaged in comprehensive discussions focused on enhancing the quality of education. Key areas of cooperation included professional development for faculty, the organization of joint training sessions, seminars, and webinars based on ETS-certified modern content, and the implementation of advanced methodologies in English language teaching.
Particular emphasis was placed on effective preparation for the TOEFL iBT examination, improving assessment literacy among students and educators, and fostering a systematic approach to international certification. In addition, both sides explored opportunities to establish a solid foundation for global academic mobility.
As a significant outcome of the visit, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the two institutions. The document outlines clear strategic priorities aimed at improving educational quality, expanding the adoption of innovative approaches, and strengthening international integration.
This partnership is expected to further reinforce long-term collaboration between the International Nordic University and ETS, contributing to sustainable development in education and broader global engagement.
Point of View: A Powerful Force Showcasing National Prestige
In an article published in the Xalq so‘zi newspaper and authored by the Rector of the International Nordic University, Sherzod Mustafakulov, the key priorities emphasized during the meeting are thoroughly analyzed, alongside a number of forward-looking approaches and proposals aimed at building an effective system.
As highlighted in the article, a continuous vertical integration model — “school–federation–university” — ensures the consistent development of talented youth, while individualized development programs remain crucial for each athlete. Particular attention is also given to advancing the sports economy, establishing clubs and academies, ensuring digital transparency, and strengthening the integration of science and sports. Sport, it is argued, should become one of the central pillars of the national development strategy.
To deepen the analysis, the article also examines the best international practices in promoting mass sports development.
A more comprehensive insight and extended perspectives can be found in the April 10 issue of Xalq so‘zi.