Webster University and the Uzbekistan Ministry of Higher Education Enter a 10-Year Partnership Renewal
May 22, 2026
Webster University and the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of the Republic of Uzbekistan have entered into a 10-year extension of their partnership, launching a new chapter in the successful global educational enterprise that has expanded access to high-quality American-style education in Central Asia. The agreement was signed last week.
Under the agreement, Webster’s presence will increase its student body dramatically, adding to the already significant enrollment growth experienced recently there. Webster also will add several new academic programs that align with the workforce demands in the region.
“This marks an important milestone in our partnership, reflecting our joint success in expanding geographically, broadening our academic portfolio, and increasing student enrollment,” Webster University President Tim Keane said, pointing out that Webster is unique in American higher education, operating successfully in multiple international locations. “Our presence in Tashkent has become the crown jewel of our global efforts. In the past two years, we have seen a 70% growth in the student body there due to our partnership with Uzbekistan officials and our Kairos Strategic initiative. I look forward to continuing to see this partnership grow and where our collaborations with our colleagues in Uzbekistan lead us next.”
Webster launched The Kairos Strategic Initiative in 2025 through a collaboration with students, faculty, and staff. The Kairos Plan reviewed all processes and policies to identify efficiencies and potential areas of growth. Integrating international strategic and operational goals was an important priority for Webster, and it has paid off in terms of enrollment and profitability.
“This agreement reflects the shared vision of Webster University and the Republic of Uzbekistan to develop future leaders, strengthen human capital, and contribute to the nation’s long-term social and economic development through world-class education, innovation, and international partnership,” said Uzbekistan Minister Kongratbay Sharipov, the head of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of the Republic of Uzbekistan. “The Ministry extends its sincere appreciation to President Tim Keane and the leadership team of Webster University for their continued support, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to expanding access to high-quality American education in Uzbekistan.”
Under the agreement, a state-of-the-art campus for Webster University in Tashkent will be established in Yangi Toshkent, a suburb just east of Tashkent, by 2027. The new facility will include a modern academic building with a capacity for 10,000 students and a 500-bed residence hall, providing an innovative environment for learning, research, and student life.
Currently Webster offers 11 bachelor’s degrees and five masters programs, along with two certificates, in Uzbekistan, with specialties offered in communications, teaching English as a second language, and business and health administration. Over the course of the next 10 years, Webster will work closely with the Ministry to identify and launch new, highly demanded programs.
In addition, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed with the Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan, establishing a framework for collaboration in finance and banking education, professional development, applied research, and knowledge exchange between academia and industry. The partnership will contribute to the development of highly qualified professionals and support the continued modernization of Uzbekistan’s financial sector.
Today, the campus enrolls more than 6,800 students, most of whom are from Uzbekistan
but also includes students from 25 other countries in the region.
More information about Webster’s presence in Uzbekistan can be found online.
About Webster:
Webster is a non-profit global institution serving more than 15,000 students at 12 locations across the world and online. With more than a century of experience, it is committed to engaged learning experiences and empowering students to become catalysts for change. With its main campus in St. Louis, Missouri, USA, Webster University’s network of faculty, staff, students and alumni forge powerful bonds with each other and their communities around the globe. As the largest multinational university delivering an American style education, Webster offers students unparalleled opportunities to learn, connect, and discover new perspectives. Webster's global reach extends beyond geography; it develops collaboration and leaders who create impact in their communities.