President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a decree on October 9 aimed at further improving the executive structure of the Cabinet of Ministers, with the document officially published on October 12. The key structural modification involves the creation of a brand-new position: First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education and Science.

Erkinjon Turdimov, who previously served as the khokim (governor) of the Syrdarya region, has been appointed to this newly established high-ranking post. Under the updated framework, the first deputy prime minister will coordinate and oversee the activities of ministries, committees, agencies, and regional heads regarding education, science, and healthcare matters.

Furthermore, the decree outlines cooperation mechanisms with specialized bodies, including the State Security Service to prevent drug trafficking and youth involvement in criminal groups, and the National Guard to promote patriotism and healthy lifestyles among students. A dedicated secretariat consisting of 12 staff members is also being formed to support the new ministerial portfolio.

During a meeting in New Tashkent, President Mirziyoyev explained that the appointment was driven by growing concerns over declining educational standards despite the numerical growth of universities. The Uzbek leader supposedly noted that placing one of his most trusted officials in charge signals a fundamental shift in state policy toward prioritizing education and healthcare sectors.

Source: www.gazeta.uz