State Target Program for the Development of Mathematical, Exact, and Natural Sciences (2026-2030)

State Target Program for the Development of Mathematical, Exact, and Natural Sciences (2026-2030)

Introduction and Legal Basis

The "State Target Program for the Development of Mathematical, Exact, and Natural Sciences for 2026-2030" was officially approved by Government Decree №570 on November 1, 2025. This strategic document was developed in accordance with the Law of the Republic of Tajikistan "On Strategic Planning and State Forecasting" to accelerate the integration of science into the country's socio-economic development.

Core Intentions and Objectives

The primary goal of the Program is to strengthen the scientific and innovative potential of Tajikistan by fostering fundamental and applied research. It aims to align scientific output with the current needs of the national economy, specifically focusing on:

• Infrastructure Modernization: Renovating and equipping laboratories and research centers with advanced international-standard technologies.

• Personnel Development: Training highly qualified specialists, including PhDs and young researchers, and improving the quality of education in exact and natural sciences across all academic levels.

• Scientific Integration: Bridging the gap between scientific theory and industrial production to ensure research results are applied in practice.

Priority Areas

The Program identifies several critical scientific fields that require focused development to ensure national security and economic competitiveness:

• Advanced Technologies: Emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, drones, nanotechnology, and digital economy.

• Natural Resources and Ecology: Research into water resource management, renewable energy, mineral exploration, biodiversity, and climate change.

• Fundamental Sciences: Strengthening the schools of mathematics, physics, chemistry, and astronomy.

Current Challenges Addressed

The Program serves as a response to existing hurdles in the sector, such as a lack of modern technical equipment, low financial investment relative to GDP, and a shortage of highly qualified personnel. It also seeks to increase public interest in these scientific fields through various educational activities and incentives, such as the State Prize for scientists and teachers.

Expected Outcomes and Implementation

By 2030, the Program expects to have established a robust information infrastructure and a modernized system for publishing scientific works. Key indicators of success include increased international scientific collaboration, a higher volume of patented innovations, and a significant rise in the number of young people entering scientific careers.

The Ministry of Education and Science is the designated body for monitoring and evaluating the Program’s progress, with annual reports due to the Government by February 10th each year. Funding will be sourced from the state budget, as well as through international grants and private investment.