Islomov Bobur Zarifjon ugli
\nindependent researcher of
\nTashkent State University of Economics,
\nTashkent, Uzbekistan
\nE mail: boburislomov61@gmail.com
\nORCID: 0009-0000-0554-9578
\nJEL classification: G50 H6<\/p>\n
Abstract: This scholarly article presents a comprehensive analysis of the current state of financial provision in the higher education system of the Republic of Uzbekistan, with an in-depth study of the allocation, efficiency, and institutional aspects of managing existing resources. The increasing number and diversification of the 201 higher education institutions operating in the country today, along with the growth in student admission quotas, indicate a rising financial burden on the higher education sector. Under such conditions, the effectiveness of educational reforms is directly linked to the adequacy of financial resource provision.
\nThe article examines statistical data from 2019 to 2024 regarding public budget allocations to social sectors, particularly education, revealing a relative downward trend in the share of education expenditures within total budget spending. Specifically, in 2024, the share of allocations to the social sector in the total state budget decreased by 5.8 percentage points compared to 2019, while education expenditures declined by 6 percentage points. The main reasons behind this trend include increased healthcare spending in the post-pandemic period, growing public debt servicing costs, and the expansion of public-private partnerships in the education sector.
\nAlthough the absolute volume of public funds allocated to higher education has increased, the article finds that their relative share in the overall budget and within centralized investment expenditures has not risen sufficiently. For example, while investment funds allocated to higher education in 2024 increased tenfold compared to 2020, their share within centralized investments grew by only 3.7 percentage points.
\nFurthermore, based on international comparisons, the article analyzes Uzbekistan’s education expenditure indicators in relation to countries such as the USA, Germany, South Korea, Japan, and others. While the overall share of education in the state budget is relatively high in Uzbekistan, the share allocated specifically to higher education remains comparatively low.
\nDrawing from these findings, the author proposes several policy recommendations, including strengthening the financial autonomy of higher education institutions, implementing a diversified funding system, promoting public-private partnerships, expanding the use of digital financial management systems, and allocating resources based on performance-based budgeting indicators.
\nIn conclusion, the article introduces a conceptual approach based on a sustainable financing model and innovative financial governance principles aimed at ensuring the stable and competitive financial operation of higher education institutions.
\nKey words: Higher education, financial provision, state budget, social expenditures, education funding, financial resources, public-private partnership, financial autonomy, investments, education reforms, digital governance, performance-based budgeting<\/p>\n\n\n