The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has successfully concluded a transformative IT skills training program for female customs officers of the State Customs Committee of Uzbekistan. Delivered in collaboration with IT Academy through USAID’s Trade Central Asia initiative, the program equipped 287 customs professionals with critical digital competencies.
This initiative aimed to enhance the digital capabilities of customs professionals, empowering them to leverage technology effectively, strengthen leadership abilities, and foster professional self-confidence. Participants gained hands-on expertise in managing IT systems and utilizing data analytics, enabling smarter, data-driven decision-making within Uzbekistan’s customs framework.
The training program is a pivotal step in Uzbekistan’s ongoing efforts to modernize its trade and customs systems. With more than 150 software modules in operation and nearing full digitalization, Uzbekistan’s customs infrastructure requires a skilled workforce adept at navigating a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
By improving IT proficiency among customs officers, the program is expected to result in faster, more efficient customs operations and streamlined cross-border trade processes. This advancement will not only enhance economic productivity but also minimize the risks of human error and corruption.
An equally important aspect of the program is its focus on empowering women in the public sector. By providing comprehensive IT training to female customs officers, USAID is contributing to gender equality in Uzbekistan. The initiative underscores the value of inclusive development and highlights the vital role women play in shaping the future of customs operations.
During the program’s graduation ceremony, Heather Byrnes, the U.S. Charge D’Affaires to Uzbekistan, emphasized the importance of the initiative:
“Talented women play a vital role in shaping the future of customs professionals. They inspire the next generation of leaders and set an example of innovation and leadership. The U.S. Government is a proud, committed partner in advancing digitization, economic development, and security in support of the Digital Uzbekistan 2030 strategy.”
This program aligns with Uzbekistan’s ambitious Digital 2030 strategy, which aims to integrate advanced technologies across various sectors. By equipping customs officers with IT skills, USAID is directly contributing to the country’s vision for a more modern and efficient economy.
The success of this program reflects USAID’s commitment
to fostering innovation, promoting economic development, and empowering women worldwide. It marks a significant milestone in Uzbekistan’s journey toward a fully digitalized and inclusive trade ecosystem.
