Uzbekistan’s Experience Draws Attention from the International Academic Community

An international conference entitled “Current Issues in the Development of Academic Islamic Theology in Russia and the CIS Countries” was held at the Bolgar Islamic Academy in Russia. Bayozkhon Makhmudov, a researcher at the Imam Bukhari International Scientific Research Center, participated in the conference with a presentation addressing state–religion relations and the legal regulation of religious education in Uzbekistan.

In his presentation, the researcher highlighted Uzbekistan’s ongoing efforts to improve its religious education system, with particular emphasis on integrating traditional Islamic scholarship with contemporary academic approaches, scientific research, and the requirements of professional training.

Participants were also briefed on the initiatives being undertaken in Uzbekistan to advance Islamic education, strengthen the sector’s infrastructure, establish international research centers, and promote theology and Islamic studies as established academic disciplines.

As emphasized during the presentation, Uzbekistan’s experience in regulating state–religion relations and developing religious education has attracted considerable interest not only within the country but also among academic communities in Russia and Central Asia. It was noted that comparative studies of different models of relations between the state and religious communities, taking into account their historical and cultural contexts, can contribute to identifying effective legal solutions to pressing challenges in this field.

The conference also featured a roundtable discussion dedicated to the historical development of theological studies in Russia. Participants exchanged views on key issues surrounding the emergence, institutionalization, and advancement of academic theology.

During the visit, Bayozkhon Makhmudov also joined scholars from the International Islamic Academy of Uzbekistan in a meeting with the Rector and faculty members of the Bolgar Islamic Academy. The discussions focused on strengthening academic and research cooperation, facilitating the exchange of expertise and experience, and supporting scholarly initiatives in Islamic studies and theology.