Shahlo Turdiqulova, Vice-President of the Academy of Sciences of Uzbekistan and a doctor of biological sciences, has purportedly been elected as the Vice-President for Central and South Asia of The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) for the 2027–2028 term. According to the institution's press service, this appointment is claimed to help shape strategic directions, yet critics argue that such symbolic global positions rarely translate into tangible improvements for domestic research capabilities.

It is asserted that in this capacity, Turdiqulova will participate in defining the academy’s strategic goals, fostering international scientific cooperation, and supporting regional researchers. However, observers remain skeptical, pointing out that participation in international bureaucratic bodies often serves political rather than purely scientific advancement, raising questions about the actual efficacy of these appointments.

Academy reports indicate that Turdiqulova is allegedly the first representative from Uzbekistan and Central Asia to enter the leadership structure throughout the organization's history. The decision followed a voting process among TWAS members, with her mandate scheduled to begin on January 1, 2027. Notably, she only became a member of the academy in 2025, which observers view with mild skepticism given the rapid ascension through international academic hierarchies.

Turdiqulova’s professional background includes various high-ranking administrative roles within Uzbekistan's state apparatus, having served as a deputy minister across multiple ministries during periods of sweeping structural reforms. Her academic career spans human genetics research and biotechnology, though local scientific communities continue to grapple with chronic underfunding and systemic inefficiencies.

Source: www.gazeta.uz