In Tashkent, Central Asian youth discussed preserving cultural heritage through artificial intelligence

The international congress “Central Asia: Shared Spiritual-Educational Heritage – Shared Future,” held in Tashkent, also united the youth of the region around a single purpose. In this dialogue, where science, innovation, and cultural heritage intersected, young participants discussed how to build a new digital generation by drawing upon the history of their nations.

Within the framework of the congress, a breakout session titled “Youth and the Digital Era: From Ancient Manuscripts to Artificial Intelligence” brought together young scholars and specialists in digital technologies, along with representatives of state agencies, from Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan.

Speakers emphasized the active involvement of young professionals in implementing digital reforms, mechanisms for putting innovative ideas into practice, and the potential for using artificial intelligence in public administration and the education system. Special attention was given to the digitalization of ancient manuscripts and the role of AI in studying them — a process that is both a scientific task and a cultural responsibility.

Otabekkhuja Sobitov, Chairman of the Youth Parliament under the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan, stated:

It was a great honor for me to participate in the international congress held within the framework of the consultative meeting of the heads of state of Central Asia and Azerbaijan. I was deeply moved and proud while exploring the Qur’an Hall, rare manuscripts, and priceless artifacts at the Islamic Civilization Center. This institution is a major spiritual hub that leads young people toward knowledge, enlightenment, and intellectual growth, embodying the rich cultural heritage of our nation.

According to the Chairman of the Youth Parliament, significant work is being carried out in Uzbekistan to develop digital education and an innovation ecosystem for young people. During the discussion, each country presented its own experiences in developing artificial intelligence. Uzbekistan’s major initiatives in this field such as the “One Million Coders” program launched by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the expansion of IT Park, the establishment of digital technology centers, and the specialization of higher education institutions like INHA and TUIT are opening new opportunities for youth.

A representative of the Turkmen youth delegation, Altinay Mametnazarova, emphasized the warm hospitality in Uzbekistan and the high level at which the congress was organized.

This year is marked as the “Year of International Peace and Trust” in our country. Therefore, we have been given wide opportunities to promote our culture, history, and national heritage to the world. We, the youth, are also actively working to promote the ancient history and spiritual legacy of our people.

 

She noted that the congress once again demonstrated the strength of friendship among the peoples of the region. The delegation visited the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan as part of the program. The architecture of the center, its extensive exhibitions, and interactive presentations created a powerful impression. The display of the 7th-century Uthman Qur’an manuscript registered by UNESCO was an unforgettable moment. Seeing the Qur’an awakened feelings of pride and emotion in our hearts, she said.

The breakout session also discussed mechanisms for supporting youth startups, the development of digital innovation, and launching joint regional projects. Participants underscored the need to work together to build a digital future for the younger generation, introduce artificial intelligence into governance and education, and preserve cultural heritage through modern technologies.

Within the congress, several breakout sessions were held on culture, enlightenment, history, reading culture, and youth policy. During these sessions, we presented information on youth activities in Turkmenistan.

 

Dialogue between youth delegations from different countries further strengthened mutual friendship and cultural closeness.

 

Such international meetings enhance cooperation among kindred nations. We express our sincere gratitude to the President of Uzbekistan for organizing such a major congress, said the representative of Turkmen youth.

It should be noted that the international congress “Central Asia: Shared Spiritual-Educational Heritage – Shared Future” was held at the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan from 13 to 15 November of this year. The congress was organized at the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev through the cooperation of the Islamic Civilization Center, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, WOSCU, the Academy of Sciences, and the Central Asia International Institute.