Advancing key learning and reform outcomes in Tajikistan for children
Steering Committee partners meet to discuss progress on Islamic Development Bank and Global Partnership for Education Supported Project.
Dushanbe, 23 September 2025 – UNICEF in Tajikistan, in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Tajikistan, convened a Steering Committee meeting under the Islamic Development Bank and Global Partnership for Education-funded project “Support to the Implementation of the National Education Development Strategy of the Republic of Tajikistan – Phase II.” The meeting reviewed the progress of education reform under Component 2: Improving the Quality and Efficiency of Education Services.
The high-level meeting was chaired by Mr. Hoshimzoda Homid Hasan, First Deputy Minister of Education and Science, and attended by key partners, including the Islamic Development Bank, the Global Partnership for Education, UNICEF, and the Project Implementation Group.
In his opening remarks, the Minister of Education and Science, Mr. Saidzoda Rahim Hamro, emphasized the importance of aligning project interventions with the National Education Development Strategy 2030 (NSED-2030) and ensuring the sustainability and comprehensive education reform.
The Steering Committee received a detailed update on progress under Phase II and linking it to the Phase I, including milestones achieved, challenges encountered, and lessons learned. Discussions highlighted progress under Component 2, particularly on improving the curriculum, teaching and learning materials (TLMs), and teacher professional development and learning assessment.
Earlier in the day, leadership representatives visited a pilot school to observe curriculum reform in practice and engage directly with teachers for firsthand insights.
Participants also outlined next steps for implementation, with clear timelines, responsibilities, and expected outcomes, while reaffirming the Steering Committee’s role as the primary decision-making body for Phase II to ensure transparency, accountability, and smooth implementation.
The meeting also featured a reflection and Q&A session, during which partners engaged in open discussions and identified solutions to strengthen delivery and enhance coordination.
The Steering Committee reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Tajikistan’s education reforms and ensuring that every child in the country has access to quality learning opportunities aligned with the demands of the 21st century.
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About the Project
The project “Support to the Implementation of the National Education Development Strategy of the Republic of Tajikistan – Phase II” focuses on enhancing the quality and efficiency of education services in Tajikistan, and is fully aligned with Tajikistan’s National Strategy of Education Development (2030). The project is co-funded by GPE and IsDB, while the latter also provides full implementation, monitoring and evaluation support. UNICEF is implementing Component 2 of the project, focusing on competency-based education reform, teacher professional development, and the strengthening of teaching and learning materials.
About the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB)
The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) is a multilateral development bank that works to improve the lives of people by promoting social and economic development in its member countries and Muslim communities worldwide. IsDB provides project financing, technical assistance, and capacity-building across key sectors such as education, health, agriculture, infrastructure, science, and technology, thereby fostering inclusive growth, innovation, and partnerships towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Bank has 57 member countries and operates globally through its regional hubs. (www.isdb.org/)
About the Global Partnership for Education (GPE)
The Global Partnership for Education (GPE) is the world’s only partnership and fund dedicated exclusively to ensuring every child, especially the most vulnerable and marginalized, receives a quality education. Working with governments, donors, international organizations, civil society, teachers, and the private sector, GPE drives progress in over 80 partner counties by strengthening education systems and unlocking opportunities for millions of children. (www.globalpartnership.org)
About UNICEF
UNICEF promotes the rights and wellbeing of every child, in everything we do. Together with our partners, we work in 190 countries and territories to translate that commitment into practical action, focusing special effort on reaching the most vulnerable and excluded children, to the benefit of all children, everywhere. UNICEF operates in Tajikistan since 1993.
To receive more information about UNICEF and our work in Tajikistan, please visit https://www.unicef.org/tajikistan/
