Official Opening of the Rowan University Center at the Nordic International University press-release

On October 25, 2025, the official opening ceremony of the Rowan University Center was held at the Nordic International University.

The Center was established in line with the instructions of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan to develop the higher education system based on international standards, expand cooperation with prestigious foreign universities, and improve the quality of personnel training.

Organized in partnership with the prestigious Rowan University (USA) (https://www.rowan.edu/), the opening ceremony was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, the Ministry of Preschool and School Education, the Republican Scientific-Methodological Center for Education Development, officials from the U.S. Embassy, the leadership of Rowan and Nordic Universities, academics, members of parliament, media representatives, and the general public.

Rowan University, located in New Jersey, USA, is a dynamic public institution known for its innovative approach and has recently been recognized in U.S. rankings as one of the “fastest-growing universities.”

During the ceremony, the symbolic ribbon was cut by Dr. Ali Houshmand, President of Rowan University, an internationally renowned scholar and reform-oriented leader; Kungratboy Sharipov, Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation; Ezokhon Karimova, Minister of Preschool and School Education; and the leadership of Nordic University.

Opening the event, Professor Sherzod Mustafakulov, Rector of the Nordic International University, emphasized that the establishment of this center represents not only an achievement for Nordic University but also a new milestone for Uzbekistan in the field of international education. He highlighted that the new center will bring new opportunities, ideas, and open the doors of global education for the youth.

Minister Kungratboy Sharipov noted that this day marks a historic and proud moment for higher education in Uzbekistan, stating:

“We express our deep gratitude to the leadership and team of the Nordic International University and Rowan University, as well as to all specialists who actively participated in implementing this project. I am confident that the Rowan University Center will play a vital role in preparing innovative, globally competitive professionals in our country. It will give new impetus not only to students but also to our entire education system.”

Minister Ezokhon Karimova emphasized that this cooperation will elevate educational relations between the two nations to a new level.

“The collaboration between Rowan University and the Nordic International University symbolizes the exchange of knowledge, innovation, and international experience. Together, we aim to provide students with globally competitive education,” said Dr. Ali Houshmand during his speech.

Dr. Houshmand was also awarded the honorary title of “Honorary Professor” of the Nordic International University.

Alisher Juraev, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Nordic International University and Honorary Consul of Finland in Uzbekistan, noted that the Rowan University Center will offer educational programs aligned with U.S. academic standards for Uzbek and international students, as well as joint scientific projects, student and faculty exchange programs.

Distinguished guests highlighted that the establishment of the Rowan University Center is a significant step toward strengthening international higher education ties, integrating education and innovation, and aligning the training of professionals in pedagogy, engineering, IT, and medicine with global standards.

Within the framework of the Center’s activities, joint educational and research programs involving U.S. and Uzbek faculty will be launched. Joint undergraduate, master’s, and professional development programs will be effectively implemented. The center will also host academic seminars, training sessions, and enable students to enhance their qualifications through distance learning and international certification programs.

Participants also toured the new center building and discussed future prospects for strategic cooperation between the two universities. The event concluded with friendly conversations over tea accompanied by music.

The opening of the Center not only strengthens educational cooperation between the two countries but also contributes to expanding the model of strategic partnership with foreign educational institutions in Uzbekistan. Moreover, the Center will serve as a foundation for establishing international research centers, joint laboratories, and dual-degree programs within the Nordic University.