The goal of the project is to improve the quality of scientific research and adapt educational programs to the requirements of the labor market.
Among the main directions of the project are increasing the relevance and quality of educational and research programs, as well as modernizing university infrastructure.
Teachers and researchers from public and private higher educational institutions of the republic can participate in the competition.
Special attention will be given to projects led by women and those that involve female students and representatives of vulnerable groups.
- The maximum grant amount is up to $200,000.
- The duration of projects can reach 36 months.
Prohibited expenses include construction, salaries, scholarships, and the purchase of vehicles.
- Short applications (stage 1) are accepted until midnight on April 8, 2026.
- Full applications (stage 2) can be submitted until midnight on July 30, 2026.
The KIWO project aims to enhance the quality of higher education in the Kyrgyz Republic by supporting research and innovation in universities.
Initiatives are also planned, such as the establishment of innovation and research centers based at five universities with special status and the formation of an academic innovation fund to support inter-university scientific cooperation in priority sectors of the economy, as well as improving accreditation and quality assurance systems for universities.
The summer of 2025 marked the launch of the first round of the AIF grant competition as part of the KIWO project.
As noted by the director of the KIWO OP, Rasual Abazbek uulu, 38 applications were submitted from private and public universities in the first round, which ultimately led to 196 proposed projects. Currently, 59% of them are under detailed review. As a result, up to eight projects will be supported, considering the high requirements.
It was previously reported that a systematic reform of higher education has begun in Kyrgyzstan.
The project budget of $25 million was approved by the Board of Directors of the World Bank on January 31 of last year. The implementation of the project is carried out in accordance with the Financing Agreement between Kyrgyzstan and the International Development Association, which was ratified by the KR law on July 24, 2024.
The loan is provided interest-free for 50 years with a 10-year grace period. Funds are allocated for the implementation of this project.
