Military service in Uzbekistan will become an educational hub for youth

During the meeting chaired by President and Supreme Commander Shavkat Mirziyoyev, key points of the modernization of Uzbekistan's defense system were discussed. The main focus will be on updating the Defense Doctrine and the National Security Concept, which will reaffirm the country's status as a non-aligned state with an emphasis on diplomacy, high technology, and military autonomy.

The President noted that in modern conflicts, the crucial role is not played by the number of military personnel, but by the application of artificial intelligence, robotics, and cyber technologies. In this regard, the army will transition to a "proactive mode" of operation, focusing on preventing threats rather than just eliminating them. Protecting digital infrastructure and personal data will become a priority.

The system of mandatory military service in Uzbekistan will undergo significant changes, transforming into a social lift and a stage for training specialists. During their service, young people will have the opportunity to acquire one of the civilian professions through short-term programs. Plans include training 5,000 soldiers annually in the fields of IT and artificial intelligence. Unique opportunities for obtaining higher education will be created for military personnel: entrance exams can be taken directly in the units, and demobilized students will be able to count on interest-free loans and compensation for studying foreign languages.

Upon completion of service, significant career preferences are provided. For future entrepreneurs, the state will cover part of the loan rates, and candidates for civil service will receive an additional 10% to their test scores. Additionally, the leisure of military personnel will be diversified: besides traditional wrestling competitions, events in esports and drone management will be organized. Intellectual development will be supported by the transfer of one million books to military units, and reading winners will be able to reduce their service time by one month.

The reform will also affect the social status of career military personnel. Starting April 1, the length-of-service bonuses for officers will double, and the salaries of contract soldiers and civilian employees will increase. For veterans with over 30 years of service, pension payments will amount to 100% of their monetary allowance. Thus, the modernization of the Armed Forces is aimed not only at protecting borders but also at creating a highly qualified personnel reserve for the country's economy.