18 November 2024, Samarkand, Uzbekistan – The European Union (EU) recognised Secondary School №9 as the Most Energy Efficient School of the Samarkand city. The Award Ceremony, organised as part of the Second European Union – Uzbekistan Sustainable Energy Days, gathered schoolchildren, teachers, parents, representatives of the Ministry of Preschool and School Education of the Republic of Uzbekistan (MoPSE), as well as the EU project experts. The event was organised by the EU-funded project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)” in cooperation with MoPSE.

The Ceremony was followed by an introductory lesson and quiz for the students in grades 5-7. As a result, the event raised the children’s awareness about the connection between energy and climate, built their skills  for the thoughtful and efficient use of natural and energy resources, encouraged curiosity and creative thinking about renewable energy and energy efficiency solutions to protect climate and environment on the Planet.

Addressing the event participants, Mr Paata Janelidze, Team Leader of the SECCA project, said:

“I sincerely congratulate Secondary School №9 on this remarkable achievement. It is important to note that this initiative goes beyond energy conservation. Climate change and air pollution not only affect our health, but also endanger the iconic architectural landmarks, which have stood for centuries. By embracing sustainable practices and reducing pollution, we are creating a healthier environment for future generations and preserving Samarkand’s treasured monuments and history. Our project is proud to support these efforts in collaboration with the state partners, working together to protect the environment and empower local communities."

Ms Dilbar Mavlonova, School Principal, noted:

“We are deeply honoured to receive this recognition and feel inspired to lead by example. Indeed, small, everyday actions can contribute to a greener future. We are grateful for the support from the European Union and the Ministry of Preschool and School Education. I am confident that our schoolchildren and teachers will remember this day and celebration for a long time, and that the new knowledge and skills they have gained will inspire them to continue making a positive impact on the sustainable development of our country.” 

The assessment of energy efficiency indicators and selection of the school had been conducted by the SECCA project based on data provided by MoPSE. 

Background: 

The European Union is an economic and political union of 27 European countries. It is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. It acts globally to promote sustainable development of societies, environment and economies, so that everyone can benefit.

The European Union – Uzbekistan Sustainable Energy Days is part of the broader European Union – Central Asia Sustainable Energy Days campaign. Its purpose is to enhance the awareness of national stakeholders and the public in the region of Central Asia on the significance, benefits and accessibility of sustainable energy and the interlinkage between energy and climate change. It also represents a global edition of EU Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW), the largest annual event dedicated to renewables and efficient energy use in Europe, initiated in 2007 by the European Commission. The campaign is organised yearly in the countries of Central Asia by the EU-funded project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)".

The EU-funded project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)” (from March 2022 to March 2026) aims to promote a sustainable energy mix in the Central Asia region in line with EU best practices. To fulfil its mission, SECCA strives to provide for strengthened and more inclusive policy, regulatory and institutional framework for the transition to a sustainable energy system, within a regional context, and focuses on contributing to the fulfilment of international human rights commitments in CA countries, including equal access to energy, and supporting gender inclusive policies and legislation for energy efficiency (EE) and renewable energy (RE). The project activities include capacity development for EE and RE deployment, awareness raising on EE and RE, and improving investment climate for EE and RE projects.

For additional information, please contact Mrs Yelena Serebrennikova, Senior Strategic Communication Expert, SECCA, email: [email protected], Mrs Nurgul Smagulova-Dulic, Digital Communication and Media Relations Expert, SECCA, email: [email protected], or the EU Delegation to Uzbekistan, email: [email protected].