The success of the University of Central Asia (UCA) is closely tied to the achievements of its graduates. Its mission is to promote social and economic development in Central Asia, particularly among its mountain communities. The university therefore equips its students with the necessary knowledge and skills to contribute to this mission and thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Crucially, the quality and international reputation of a UCA education is always rising, which in turn empowers graduates to become job creators rather than merely job seekers.
“Together with some other UCA graduates, we are planning to launch our own startup organisation,” said Khursand Sharipov from Tajikistan, who has worked for the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the Aga Khan Foundation since graduating.
“We want to start something in the field of education, because good quality education is very important for young people to have access to as they grow up.”
UCA graduates consistently highlight not only the subject knowledge they acquire but also the crucial interpersonal and cognitive skills developed during their studies.
“UCA gave me an opportunity to connect with great people and taught me to think critically,” said Karlygash Kussainova from Kazakhstan, who studied Computer Science at UCA, and is now pursuing a thesis-based Master's course with a focus on data science and machine learning at Simon Fraser University in Canada.
“My research topic is on NFT market analysis, where I use a variety of statistical techniques to analyse historical data, as well as use AI and machine learning to predict prices,” added Karlygash.
UCA's graduates come from diverse backgrounds, yet they all share the same vision: to give back to their communities and improve the quality of life in Central Asia.
Learning how other regions have accomplished this is a good place to start. Suyuna Dadybaeva, a UCA graduate of Communication and Media from Kyrgyzstan, reflects on her fascination with Singapore's success story and former prime minister Lee Kuan Yew's role in transforming it from a fishing village to a thriving Asian tiger.
“I often wondered how my career and academic goals could align to replicate this model back home in Central Asia,” she said.
To help with this, Suyuna is currently pursuing postgraduate studies at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, at the National University of Singapore.
“I plan on delving into the work of major international development organisations such as the ADB, World Bank, and UN Women,” she added. Suyuna hopes her international exposure will contribute to her long-term career plans in the public sector in Kyrgyzstan.
Educational experiences can subtly influence the choices made by graduates, whether they pursue further studies or aim to secure employment. Safdar Jan, a Global Economics graduate from Pakistan, recounts how the challenging coursework and experiential learning opportunities at UCA ignited his passion for quantitative economics and its real-world applications. This passion led him to a career in the field, first as a research assistant and now as a faculty assistant at UCA's School of Arts and Sciences at the Khorog Campus.
“The competitive academic environment helped me build a deep understanding of economic concepts and models while teaching and research opportunities were instrumental in developing practical skills such as data analysis, project management, and teaching, which have been valuable in my current role,” explained Safdar.
Looking to the needs of the future is another important consideration. Saif Ur Rahmen, who studied Earth and Environmental Sciences at UCA’s Khorog Campus, shares his firsthand experience of the detrimental impacts of climate change on vulnerable and marginalised groups in Chitral, Pakistan. He is currently studying for a Master's degree at the University of Michigan's School for Environmental Sustainability in the US.
“I strongly believe,” Saif said, “that my new skills will help me to work in the sector of renewable energy, transitioning from fossil fuel to renewable energy, and at the same time bring the knowledge back to my community to establish resiliency and help to eradicate energy poverty back home.”
UCA graduates recognise the highly competitive nature of the job market and prestigious postgraduate programmes. But they also have some timely advice for all current and future graduates:
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Start building your portfolio early during your time at university, as many programmes and scholarship endowment funds like to see work experience and publications attached to your name.
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Take advantage of opportunities for practical learning, professional development, and community engagement. Engage in internships and projects aligned with your interests and career goals.
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Foster connections while you’re still a student. Faculty, guest speakers, and staff members often have relevant experience or may be linked with graduate schools you may be considering. Ask for their advice!
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Remember that your journey is unique, and it doesn't need to mirror someone else's path. Set aside time to understand yourself and your aspirations before taking your next step.
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Regardless of your major, learning about the newest technologies and their implications is valuable, as these are increasingly applicable across various fields.
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Finally, go at your own pace. Don’t worry if it takes some time for a door to open or a path to clear. Trust yourself and have faith that things will work out for the best.
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Manizha Murodbekova graduated from UCA last year with top honours, receiving the all-round leadership and outstanding community service awards.
