The number of presidential “Durakhshandagon” scholarships for Tajik students to study abroad has dropped significantly in 2025, despite earlier projections of growth. According to Minister of Education and Science Rahim Saidzoda, only 77 students will be sent to foreign universities this year under the prestigious scholarship program.

This marks a steep decline from 130 scholarships awarded in 2024, a reduction of 53 placements. The decision contrasts with earlier announcements from the Center for International Programs, which in January told Asia-Plus that 170 scholarships had been allocated for 2025.

On July 29, the Center clarified that the 170 scholarships were part of the government’s “Social Development Program” and included all levels of education and internships. The 77 scholarships confirmed this year pertain only to undergraduate students. No new awards were granted for master's, doctoral, or internship programs—though no official explanation has been given.

Saidzoda said over 500 applicants submitted documents for this year’s scholarship competition. The selection process is currently underway, with only 77 students expected to be chosen for study abroad.

Scholarships target priority fields

Ramazon Odinazoda, director of the “Durakhshandagon” program, stated that recipients will study disciplines not available at universities in Tajikistan.  Priority fields include information and communication technology, industry, energy, and road construction—all deemed essential to the national economy.

Students studying outside the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) will receive a monthly stipend of US$500 (approximately 5,500 somonis), while those in CIS countries will receive US$300 (3,300 somonis).  The funding is drawn from a special presidential fund.

The program is also needs-based, with quotas allocated based on requests from government ministries and agencies seeking to train specific specialists.

Importantly, scholarship recipients are required to return to Tajikistan upon graduation and work for at least five years in the government body that initially requested their specialization—often based on labor market projections from four to five years prior. Graduates are placed directly into positions without needing to pass competitive exams.

Reversal of a growth trend

The reduction in scholarships comes as a surprise.  In recent years, the quota had steadily grown—from 73 students in 2022, to 94 in 2023, and 130 in 2024. The reasons behind this year’s unexpected cut remain unclear.

The “Durakhshandagon” scholarship is awarded to talented Tajik citizens for education and internships at foreign academic and scientific institutions.  The program is merit-based and overseen by a national selection commission.  The list of high-priority disciplines is determined by the Ministry of Economic Development.

Managed by the Center for International Programs, "Durakhshandagon" is a presidential scholarship program in Tajikistan that provides opportunities for gifted Tajik citizens to study abroad at top universities worldwide.  It aims to support and develop talented young people in Tajikistan by sending them to study in various fields at leading universities globally.  Students are selected based on academic merit, including grades and international certificates like TOEFL or IELTS.  Students who complete their studies abroad under the "Durakhshandagon" program are expected to return to Tajikistan and contribute to the country's development.