Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Innovations of the Republic of Uzbekistan has denied reports that new licenses and permits were issued to private higher education institutions.

Earlier on the morning of August 29, the “License” system showed information indicating positive approval of applications for license amendments. The ministry explained that this was the result of a technical malfunction. Due to the glitch, positive conclusions were issued for several applications whose review period had not yet expired.

“The causes of this malfunction are currently being thoroughly investigated in cooperation with the relevant agencies. Additional information regarding the final conclusions will be presented to the public,” the ministry stated.

The press service also clarified the list of programs and specialties for which applications were erroneously approved:

Profi University — Law, all master’s programs, distance learning;

Sharq University — Banking and Accounting, evening and distance learning;

Asian International University — Distance learning programs, opening a new campus in Urgench;

University of Business and Science — Distance learning programs;

University of Economics and Pedagogy — Master’s programs, medical specialties, distance learning, opening a campus in Denau (Surkhandarya region).

Earlier in August, the Cabinet of Ministers approved regulations on the state accreditation of educational institutions. Applications for program accreditation are accepted from October 1 to January 31, with accreditation taking effect at the beginning of the following academic year.

The Ministry of Justice of Uzbekistan stated that the “License” system (license.gov.uz) is operating normally, and no technical failures or unauthorized actions have been recorded.