The Central Asian University Sports Federation is born

On 15 November 2025, the Kazakh Academy of Sport and Tourism hosted the founding conference of the Central Asian University Sports Federation.       

The event brought together representatives of student sports organisations from Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republic of Uzbekistan, and the Republic of Tajikistan, while delegates from Turkmenistan and Mongolia joined online, ensuring broad regional representation.

The plenary session focused on the theme “The Role of University Sports in Developing Regional Cooperation and Strengthening Youth Potential.” Speakers delivering reports and welcoming remarks included:

• Akerke Abylaikhan — representative of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan;
• Kairat Zakiryaynov — President of the National University Sports Union of Kazakhstan;
• Shodi Safarov — President of the University Sports Association of the Republic of Tajikistan;
• Erkinboy Kodirov — First Vice President of the University Sports Association of the Republic of Uzbekistan;
• Kanat Usupbekov — Secretary General of the University Sports Federation of the Kyrgyz Republic.

During the discussions, participants addressed current issues related to the development of university sports, the expansion of international cooperation, the exchange of experience, and the joint implementation of sports initiatives across the region. The dialogue confirmed the strong interest of Central Asian countries in establishing a unified platform for collaboration and strengthening student sports relations.

The development of university sports plays a key role in improving youth health, fostering leadership qualities, building character, and increasing students’ interest in sports. The establishment of the Federation will strengthen international ties, expand communication among countries of the region, and lay the foundation for hosting joint championships, educational programmes, and regional university games.