Uzbekistan is establishing a Day of Physical Culture and is reforming its sports schools to enhance athletic development.

In Uzbekistan, new measures have been adopted to promote mass sports and enhance the physical activity of the population. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has signed a resolution aimed at creating additional conditions for regular sports participation, particularly among the youth. The Ministry of Justice of the republic has published the details of the document.

A key innovation is the establishment of a Day of Physical Culture and Sports, which will be celebrated every Thursday. This decision is intended to stimulate interest in an active lifestyle and create a favorable environment for sports activities.

The resolution also outlines several changes to the sports education system. Starting from the 2025/2026 academic year, sports schools will introduce specializations in various sports, allowing for more effective development of young athletes' talents.

As part of the reform, a new position will be introduced – a mass sports selector coach. These specialists will be responsible for organizing and conducting sports events in the neighborhoods and educational institutions assigned to them. Each selector coach will oversee up to five neighborhoods and the state educational institutions located within their territories. Their duties will include conducting the "Olympiad of Five Initiatives" and the physical fitness assessment tests.

Furthermore, from the 2025/2026 academic year, state specialized boarding schools for Olympic and national sports will be reorganized into schools of sports excellence. These schools will focus on selecting and training promising young athletes for national teams.

The student body of the sports excellence schools, which will operate as vocational institutions, will consist of no more than 150 students from grades 7 to 11. Graduates of the 11th grade who successfully complete the curriculum and pass the state certification will receive a state-standard general secondary education certificate. It is important to note that vocational institutions will provide meals to students free of charge, without any parental fees.

This measure aims to ensure equal opportunities for all talented children, regardless of their financial situation. It is anticipated that the comprehensive approach outlined in the resolution will significantly improve the sports training system in the country and elevate it to a new qualitative level.