Inclusion of Student and Youth Representatives in the University Council

📌 The Role of the University Council

The University Council serves as the primary collegiate governing body at the Tashkent Institute of Irrigation and Agricultural Mechanization Engineers (TIIAME) – National Research University. It is responsible for shaping academic and research policies, coordinating educational processes, approving strategic decisions, and ensuring transparency and accountability within the academic structure.

🧭 Background and Development of Student Participation

The process of engaging students in university governance began as early as 2022, when selected student representatives started participating in advisory activities related to academic affairs, research initiatives, and student life. This pilot format aimed to give voice to students and early-career researchers in key institutional discussions.

Throughout 2022–2024, youth representatives were involved in working groups, consultative boards, and rectorate discussions. Their effective contribution led to the decision to formalize their roles and institutionalize this model of inclusive governance.

In 2025, following the Rector’s initiative, the university officially transitioned to a model of permanent youth representation in the University Council. This reform was formalized through the issuance of two rector’s orders:

  • Order No. 30-a/f dated February 3, 2025: appointed Behzod Fayzullayev, Head of the University Youth Union, as a full member of the University Council representing the student community.
  • Order No. 93-a/f dated March 13, 2025: appointed Ezoz Ozodov, PhD researcher and Head of the “Sustainable Development and Innovations” cluster, as a representative of young researchers and doctoral students in the University Council.


🎯 Goals and Strategic Significance

The inclusion of student and early-career representatives into the University Council serves several important goals:

  • Establishing a sustainable mechanism for youth representation in strategic decision-making;
  • Developing leadership and civic responsibility among students and young scientists through real participation in governance;
  • Enhancing transparency and trust between administration and the student body;
  • Facilitating the incorporation of youth-led initiatives, innovative ideas, and constructive feedback into the university’s development strategy.

 

📌 Institutional Breakthrough

TIIAME National research university has become one of the first universities in Uzbekistan to formally institutionalize student and youth participation in its highest governing body. This reflects the university’s commitment to inclusive and participatory governance and aligns with international best practices in academic administration, where student voices are considered integral to institutional progress.