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On July 7, the Central Asian University of Environmental and Climate Change Studies (Green University) marked a historic milestone by hosting a landmark event that combined several key moments: the official launch of the Climate Residency, the university’s first master's degree graduation ceremony, and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Center for Sustainable Development at Columbia University (USA). 

The gathering brought together local and international experts, representatives from government agencies and academia, as well as young environmental leaders from across the region.

The event's guest of honor was Professor Jeffrey D. Sachs, Director of the Center for Sustainable Development at Columbia University. His visit highlighted Uzbekistan’s rising role as a regional leader in climate diplomacy, environmental education and sustainable development.

As part of the Global Leaders Lecture Series, Professor Sachs delivered a keynote address focused on the most pressing global challenges of our time — including climate change, social inequality, and the urgent need for systemic reforms in natural resource governance. Students, faculty and members of the expert community had the rare opportunity to engage directly with one of the most respected voices in global sustainability.

A highlight of the day was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Green University and The Center for Sustainable Development at Columbia University. The agreement paves the way for close academic and research collaboration in areas such as climate policy, environmental protection and sustainability science. The partnership also supports Uzbekistan’s national priorities under its Year of Environmental Protection and Green Economy initiative.

Another key moment was the official launch of the Climate Residency Program — a national initiative led by Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change. This program is envisioned as a regional and global platform for scientific leadership, knowledge exchange, policy innovation and capacity-building for the next generation of climate professionals. It will bring together leading scientists, consultants, policymakers and practitioners from both Uzbekistan and abroad to co-develop science-based solutions in fields such as climate resilience, green economy, environmental law and sustainable finance.

“This is a very important initiative for Uzbekistan and for all the Central Asian countries,” said Professor Sachs.
“At Columbia University, it’s a great honor for us to now be connected with Green University. We will be collaborating on programs related to energy transition, environmental sustainability, global environmental policy, sustainable finance and many other areas that Green University is championing.”

The ceremony also featured the first graduation of master’s students from Green University. The graduates completed advanced academic programs in sustainable development, sustainable finance and environmental law — disciplines at the forefront of global environmental transformation.

Speaking to the graduates, Minister of Ecology Aziz Abdukhakimov stated:

“Today is a celebration of a historic milestone – the graduation of the first cohort of master’s degree students from Green University.  Established two years ago by initiative of President of Uzbekistan H.E. Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Green University emerged from forward-looking vision –  to educate and empower a new generation of leaders capable of addressing the most pressing environmental challenges. 
That vision becomes reality today, in this Year of Environmental Protection and the Green Economy. The launch of the Climate Residency further strengthens our national and regional hub for climate innovation, evidence-based policymaking and international collaboration.”

The event at Green University reaffirmed Uzbekistan’s commitment to sustainable development, global scientific collaboration and the cultivation of a new generation of leaders who will shape the region’s environmental future. The Ministry of Ecology will continue to support such transformative initiatives — expanding opportunities for international cooperation and long-term, resilient growth.