University of Central Asia Celebrates Silver Jubilee with Graduates

June 28, 2025
University of Central Asia Celebrates Silver Jubilee with Graduates

Central Asia, June 24, 2025 – The University of Central Asia (UCA) commemorated a significant milestone on June 21, 2025, with the graduation of its fifth cohort of undergraduate students. The ceremonies took place simultaneously at UCA's residential campuses in Naryn, Kyrgyzstan, and Khorog, Tajikistan, marking the official launch of UCA's Silver Jubilee Year, which celebrates 25 years since the signing of the International Treaty that established the institution.

This year-long celebration includes events such as a commemorative film, a specially designed visual identity, and a signature photo exhibition that encapsulates UCA's journey over the past quarter-century.

A total of 65 graduates from the founding states of Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan, along with students from Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Russia, received degrees in disciplines such as Computer Science, Communications and Media, Earth and Environmental Sciences, and Global Economics. The ceremonies were attended by over 550 guests, including family members, faculty, government officials, and community leaders, showcasing the collaborative spirit of the university.

Dr. Shamsh Kassim-Lakha, Chair of UCA’s Board of Trustees, delivered a message from UCA’s Chancellor, His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V. In his remarks, the Chancellor emphasized the importance of high-quality education in fostering development and expressed optimism for UCA's future. “Access to high-quality education is a fundamental pillar of our approach to development and has the potential to bring about transformational and lasting impact,” he stated, highlighting the vision of his late father, His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV.

In Naryn, the Chief Guest, Mr. Shabdan Abdyrayim uulu, Deputy Governor of Naryn Oblast, praised UCA’s role in advancing innovation and education. Meanwhile, in Khorog, Mr. Masrur Zokirzoda, Deputy Head of the Department of International Relations at Tajikistan's Ministry of Education and Science, acknowledged UCA’s contributions to the government's initiative to designate 2025 as the International Year of Glacier Preservation, emphasizing the university's commitment to research on this critical issue.

Dr. Kassim-Lakha also reflected on the challenges of establishing world-class campuses in remote regions, underscoring UCA's mission to create a lasting impact through education. He encouraged graduates to measure success not merely by personal achievements but by the positive changes they can bring to society.

UCA Rector Professor Christopher Gerry congratulated the graduates, emphasizing the comprehensive development that students experience during their time at the university. He shared the inspiring journey of alumnus Nurlan Nogoibaev, who transitioned from pre-admission summer school to a career in aerospace data science in Paris, exemplifying UCA's commitment to excellence and community.

Valedictorian Faryal Nayab from northern Pakistan delivered an emotional speech, highlighting the resilience of her class amid the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. She expressed gratitude for the support received from faculty and peers, which fostered a sense of family among the students.

The graduation ceremonies underscored UCA’s mission to cultivate ethical leaders capable of advancing sustainable development across Central Asia. A quarter of the graduates have already secured placements in prestigious postgraduate programs in Europe, North America, and East Asia, while another quarter has entered the workforce. Notably, the graduating class also raised several thousand dollars to support future scholarships, demonstrating their commitment to UCA's legacy.

As UCA embarks on its Silver Jubilee Year, the focus remains on continuing to provide high-quality education and fostering the next generation of leaders in Central Asia and beyond.

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University of Central AsiaUCA graduationSilver JubileeCentral Asia educationKyrgyzstanTajikistangraduation ceremoniesPrince Rahim Aga Khan VDr. Shamsh Kassim-Lakhahigher educationpostgraduate programseconomic governanceenvironmental scienceUCA alumniinternational relationscommunity engagementscholarshipssustainable developmentClass of 2025NarynKhorogeducation policycultural heritageAKDNglobal challengesgathering insightsstudent achievementsregional developmenteducational milestonestransformational impact

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