The Government of Tajikistan has approved the Vocational Education Development Program for 2026–2029. The program aims to address the shortage of skilled labor, modernize educational institutions, and adapt the system of professional training to the needs of the modern economy.

A total of 400 million somonis will be allocated for the implementation of the program, with more than half of this amount coming from the state budget. The funding will be used for digitization, the development of teaching materials, the professional development of educators, and the construction, renovation, and equipping of vocational schools and colleges.

The program follows an analysis of the demographic and economic situation in the country. Tajikistan’s population continues to grow rapidly, and by 2026, it is expected to exceed 11 million people, with the number of workers increasing by more than 276,000.

By 2029, more than 1.25 million jobs are expected to be created in the economy, but the current vocational education system is unable to provide the labor market with a sufficient number of skilled workers. In 2023, only 4.8% of the over 272,000 school graduates enrolled in initial vocational education institutions.

Modernization of vocational education and teacher training

Tajikistan currently has 66 institutions for initial vocational education and 86 institutions for secondary vocational education. However, a significant portion of the buildings require repairs, the equipment is outdated, and there is a persistent shortage of teachers and instructors. At present, only half of the vocational schools are connected to the internet, and only 37% of computers in colleges are networked.

The new program aims to modernize the content of education, update educational standards, introduce competency-based and dual approaches, and promote the digitization of the education sector. It is also expected to increase the coverage of youth and women in vocational education and strengthen the cooperation between educational institutions and employers.

A key aspect of the program will be the creation of electronic libraries, the development of practical training, the professional development of educators, and the improvement of infrastructure — from laboratories to dormitories.

By 2029, the vocational education system in Tajikistan is expected to become more modern and effective. The regulatory framework will be updated, the material and technical infrastructure improved, a unified information system for tracking the workforce will be created, and electronic libraries will be introduced. Teachers will have more opportunities for professional development.

The program also aims to attract additional foreign investment into the vocational training sector.