On 3 November 2026, a roundtable discussion entitled “Learning Cities of Uzbekistan: From Experience to Joint Action” was held at the Massaget Hotel in Nukus. The event focused on advancing the concept of learning cities and exploring new opportunities for lifelong learning.

An important milestone was the inclusion of Tashkent, Fergana, Samarkand and Nukus in the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities. This opens up new prospects for developing local learning ecosystems, strengthening cross-sectoral cooperation and promoting the exchange of experience between cities.

As part of the event, Dilnoza Kurbanova, an expert from the Science and Education Department of the National Commission of the Republic of Uzbekistan for UNESCO, delivered a presentation entitled “Learning Cities: Global Context and Opportunities for Uzbekistan.” A separate session, “Hamburg as a Source of Inspiration: New Opportunities for Lifelong Learning in Nukus,” focused on practical approaches to creating an educational environment and spaces where people of all ages can learn and develop their skills.

During the discussions, participants showed particular interest in international experience, especially the practices of Hamburg, Germany, as well as approaches to lifelong learning. Special attention was given to bringing together the efforts of government institutions, educational organisations and civil society institutions to expand public access to knowledge. A representative of the DMO Karakalpakstan Public Association also presented proposals for developing joint initiatives during the meeting.

A learning city is not limited to educational institutions; it also encompasses the urban environment itself, where every person has the opportunity to discover new things and apply knowledge in practice.

Nukus's inclusion in the UNESCO Global Network is not only a recognition at the international level but also an incentive to unite efforts for the development of the region and future generations. DMO Karakalpakstan fully supports this initiative, remains open to cooperation and is ready to actively participate in implementing joint projects aimed at developing the learning environment and enhancing the potential of our city.