Online educational services extensively utilized by Uzbek and Kazakh populations
Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan lead the way in online learning among the global workforce, according to the latest Global Skills Report 2024 by Coursera, the world's largest online learning platform. Uzbekistan took the top spot, with about 6.25% of its labor force utilizing Coursera's online educational services, aiming to enhance their skillsets. In 18th place, Kazakhstan boasted 1% of its workforce participating in online courses designed to provide opportunities for adaptability and success amid change, as the report states.
The report underscores Uzbekistan's focus on job training as part of an ongoing government initiative to encourage labor migrants to seek higher-skilled positions in Europe and the Middle East rather than working as unskilled laborers in Russia. In 2024 alone, Tashkent has signed several agreements establishing quotas for Uzbek labor migrants in Germany, Slovakia, the UK, and other countries.
In terms of proficiency, Coursera data indicates that most Uzbek learners demonstrate a lower level of proficiency in key skills such as accounting, communications, statistics, and programming. Coursera currently serves over 148 million users globally, offering courses from more than 300 universities and companies.
Beyond this report, UNESCO is actively involved in training rural teachers in Uzbekistan, while the International Education Fair in Tashkent demonstrates the interest of Uzbek students in international study programs. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) places importance on skills for the digital world, emphasizing the need for students to develop foundational skills for effective technology use. Adult skills assessments are also under review to better meet 21st-century demands. These developments shed light on broader educational trends and efforts in these regions, adding context to Coursera's findings.
Education and self-development are areas of focus in Uzbekistan, as demonstrated by the government's initiative to encourage labor migrants to seek higher-skilled positions via online education. The report by Coursera shows that Uzbekistan leads the way in online learning among the global workforce, with 6.25% of its labor force utilizing online educational services. Meanwhile, learning opportunities extend beyond online platforms, with UNESCO involved in training rural teachers and the International Education Fair showcasing interest in international study programs.
