Celebrating the Impact of SPCE: Empowering Communities through Education

The University of Central Asia’s School of Professional and Continuing Education (SPCE) recently celebrated the achievements of over 630 learners, including 152 Afghan refugees, at graduation ceremonies in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. These events highlighted UCA's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in its founding states and beyond.

Since 2006, SPCE has offered over 700 short-cycle courses across 60 programmes in 10 areas of study, promoting local entrepreneurship, job creation, and improved employment opportunities.

In Tajikistan, SPCE held ceremonies in Dushanbe and Khorog for over 480 graduates from programmes such as the Academic Achievement Programme (AAP), Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and language and entrepreneurship courses. In Khorog, SPCE’s Centre for Entrepreneurship celebrated the success of 33 households trained under the Livelihood Restoration Programme and 82 individuals who completed entrepreneurship courses and created over 40 jobs. Professor Christopher Gerry, Acting Rector of UCA, delivered a virtual congratulatory address to the graduates.

In Dushanbe, 152 Afghan refugees were celebrated for completing programmes supported by USAID and the Aga Khan Foundation, providing education and vocational training in areas such as IELTS preparation and technical skills such as electrical and plumbing, tiling, and mobile phone repairs. Qozidavlat Qoimdodov, Resident Representative of the Aga Khan Development Network in Tajikistan, addressed the graduates and emphasised the importance of investing in human capital to overcome poverty and achieve shared prosperity in Tajikistan.

A graduate of SPCE’s Entrepreneurship Programme in Khorog, Tajikistan receiving his Certificate of Achievement.

A graduate of SPCE’s Entrepreneurship Programme in Khorog, Tajikistan presenting her products at the Graduation Ceremony Exhibition.

Jumakhonova Ziyodabegim, a graduate of the Academic Achievement Programme in Khorog, Tajikistan, sharing her academic journey and SPCE’s impact on her success.

In Kyrgyzstan, ceremonies in Naryn and Bishkek honoured 130 students. Sanira Mustapaeva, a graduate from Naryn, expressed gratitude for the support that led to her acceptance into the American University of Central Asia with a full scholarship. The centre in Bishkek celebrated 82 graduates, including 31 students from Baytik village of Chui Oblast, supported by the Excellence in Education Fund. These students, coming from an area with limited educational opportunities, actively engaged in captivating language lessons, interactive seminars, and games, significantly enhancing their skills.

In Kazakhstan, 21 students graduated from AAP, progressing from beginner to intermediate levels, with rigorous training in Conversational and Academic English, Mathematics, and Information Technology. Elmira Imanberdieva, director of Tekeli’s school №8, commended the graduates’ preparation and emphasised continuous education.

These graduation ceremonies marked the culmination of the students' hard work and dedication, highlighting SPCE’s role in empowering individuals and communities through education and contributing to the social and economic advancement of Central Asia.