The EU’s engagement is centred on supporting the Ministry of Education’s work in the field of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), alongside a strong focus on boosting digital proficiency, media literacy education and “green skills”. The aim is to make today’s children and youth future-ready.

The disbursement is the second instalment out of 27 million EUR allocated to the EU’s budget support programme to help the Kyrgyz Government implement its 2023-2026 Education Development Strategy.

Marilyn Josefson, the Ambassador of the EU to the Kyrgyz Republic, stated: “Education is a key driver of poverty reduction and sustainable economic growth. Whether in Europe or in Kyrgyzstan, it is vital that we equip our children and youth with the tools and skills that they need to tackle the demands of tomorrow and shape a prosperous future for themselves and their communities. Equitable and inclusive quality education for all is a long-standing key priority in the partnership between the EU and Kyrgyzstan”.