Eight universities and institutes in Tajikistan have reportedly introduced a specialization in artificial intelligence, with approximately 470 students currently enrolled. The first cohort of graduates is expected to complete their studies this year and, according to officials, will be able to work in both the public and private sectors.
First Deputy Prime Minister Hokim Kholiqzoda, speaking at an international conference on artificial intelligence, stated that elements of AI specialization have been incorporated into the curricula of ten universities nationwide. He noted that more than 750 young specialists have been trained as part of the Artificial Intelligence Development Strategy through 2040.
Where AI is being taught
According to the Ministry of Education and Science, a full AI specialization is currently offered at eight higher education institutions, with 468 students enrolled.
Training is provided at the Technological University of Tajikistan, the University of Innovation and Digital Technologies, the International University of Tourism and Entrepreneurship, the Tajik Mining and Metallurgical Institute, the Dushanbe branch of the National University of Science and Technology MISiS, the International Institute of Khujand, the International Institute of Levakant, and the Polytechnic Institute of the Tajik Technical University named after Academician Osimi in Khujand.
At the Faculty of Digital Economy and Artificial Intelligence of the University of Innovation and Digital Technologies, 40 students are currently enrolled. In 2025, new programs were launched focusing on the application of AI in economics, medicine, and power grid management. At present, 48 first-year students are studying in these fields.
The Tajik Mining and Metallurgical Institute has also established an Artificial Intelligence Center equipped with four modern laboratories. Eight faculty members have completed advanced training in South Korea, China, and India.
What students are taught
Firouzjon Ghafforov, Vice-Rector of the Technological University of Tajikistan, said that students majoring in artificial intelligence will graduate this year after completing their fourth year of study.
The curriculum includes algorithm design and programming fundamentals, introduction to artificial intelligence, data structures and processing algorithms, image and speech recognition, database management systems, machine learning, AI system design and development, data analytics, mobile application programming, and cybersecurity.
Courses are taught by experienced lecturers who have undergone professional training in Spain, Russia, and Slovenia. As part of international cooperation, specialists from South Korea also participate in teaching, both in person and online.
Employment prospects
Graduates specializing in artificial intelligence are expected to find employment as programmers, data analysts, chatbot developers, and information security specialists in both public and private institutions.
According to the Technological University, AI professionals are in demand in IT companies, banks and financial institutions, telecommunications firms, research centers, government ministries and agencies, and industrial enterprises.
Demand for such specialists is steadily increasing in Tajikistan. Artificial intelligence technologies are being actively implemented in banking, finance, telecommunications, energy, industry, healthcare, education, agriculture, logistics, trade, and marketing. As the digital economy develops, the need for qualified AI professionals continues to grow.
Earlier, the Ministry of Industry and New Technologies approved documents to develop an AI-powered browser for the public sector and introduced optional AI classes in 100 schools across the country. These free weekly lessons are offered to students in grades 10 and 11.
Despite these efforts, a shortage of qualified specialists remains a significant challenge. Many government institutions still lack a clear understanding of how to effectively implement AI technologies. In addition, internet connectivity issues and limited access to electricity in some regions continue to hinder the rapid development of AI in the country.
