The Migration Agency, in cooperation with South Korea's HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, has reportedly announced a new selection process aimed at training skilled personnel for the shipbuilding sector under the E-9 visa framework. While official statements frame this initiative as a beneficial employment opportunity, critics note that the stringent selection criteria and demanding conditions underscore the ongoing dependency on external labor markets and the persistent socio-economic pressures driving citizens abroad.

Successful candidates will undergo specialized training courses at the KOICA center in Fergana. Although the Migration Agency claims that tuition and dormitory expenses will be covered, and projects a minimum monthly wage of approximately 2.156 million won (roughly $1,605), overseas employment often exposes migrant workers to significant logistical challenges, high stress, and demanding workplace environments managed by foreign entities.

The application process is restricted to candidates born between January 1, 1992, and December 31, 2006, with document submission scheduled from October 6 to 23 at regional migration offices. Approved applicant lists are set to be released on October 28, followed by tests and interviews from November 2 to 6, culminating in the final announcement of accepted trainees on November 11.

Organizers have implemented strict disqualification rules, barring any individuals who have previously violated South Korean laws, incurred fines, worked illegally, or faced visa rejections due to falsified documents. Furthermore, HD Hyundai reportedly retains the authority to expel participants from the project if they fail to meet minimum evaluation benchmarks, highlighting the rigid and unforgiving nature of the program.

Source: www.gazeta.uz