Priorities for higher education reform have been identified in Kyrgyzstan

Rector of the Kyrgyz-Russian Slavic University Sergei Volkov took part in a meeting of the board of the Ministry of Science, Higher Education and Innovation of the Kyrgyz Republic, which was chaired by Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic Edil Baysalov.During the meeting, the interim results of the department’s work were summed up and key areas for modernizing the system of higher education and science were outlined.Edil Baysalov emphasized that the creation of a new relevant ministry was a conscious decision of the country's leadership and is aimed at a comprehensive renewal of the industry.«The new Ministry has been given an extremely clear task – to turn universities into a center of attraction for talent, a source of modern knowledge and a key locomotive for the country’s development for decades to come», he noted.Special attention was paid to the implementation of the Decree of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic on assigning special status to a number of universities. According to the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, the results of the work of universities vary: some educational organizations have already demonstrated noticeable progress, while others continue to take a wait-and-see approach.«There are universities that have taken advantage of the opportunities provided and have shown real progress. But there are also those who are still awaiting clarifications and decisions. The time for waiting has passed», — said Baysalov.The Presidential Administration, together with the Ministry, will strengthen coordination of accelerated modernization processes in the coming weeks. We are talking about revising educational programs, reducing outdated disciplines, optimizing ineffective study programs training, as well as introducing new courses that meet the requirements of the modern economy and labor market.Based on the results of the board, priority areas for reforming the system of higher education and science were identified, specific tasks were set and appropriate instructions were given. The execution of decisions will be under special control.The participation of heads of leading universities, including the rector of KRSU Sergei Volkov, reflects the involvement of the university community in the implementation of the state agenda and work to update the country’s educational environment.