A two-day business forum and practical training programme for women entrepreneurs from the Kashkadarya, Fergana and Bukhara regions was successfully held within the framework of the GUZ Partners project, implemented by Gesamtmasche, Germany’s leading textile association.
From Fergana to Kashkadarya: Strengthening Women’s Entrepreneurship Through German Experience and Regional Cooperation
A two-day business forum and practical training programme for women entrepreneurs from the Kashkadarya, Fergana and Bukhara regions was successfully held within the framework of the GUZ Partners project, implemented by Gesamtmasche, Germany’s leading textile association.
The event was organized in cooperation with the Agency for the Development of Light Industry under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Kashkadarya Regional Hokimiyat, and the Kashkadarya Regional Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The forum represented an important milestone in promoting women’s entrepreneurship and strengthening interregional cooperation in Uzbekistan’s textile and apparel sector. A particular focus was placed on facilitating the exchange of experience between entrepreneurs from the Fergana Valley — the first pilot region of the project — and participants from Kashkadarya and neighbouring regions, which are actively involved in the second phase of implementation. This approach created a valuable platform for sharing practical knowledge, discussing common challenges, and exploring opportunities for future collaboration.
Held at the Oqshom Plaza Hotel in Karshi, the programme was designed to enhance the managerial, production and innovation capacities of women-led businesses.
Throughout the two days, participants attended practical sessions led by national experts who have extensive experience working with European business practices and international industry standards, covering key topics shaping the future of the textile industry.
Fashion Industry Innovations – emerging market trends, product development and modern approaches to design;
Digital Technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI) – practical applications of AI tools for improving productivity, marketing and business management;
Lean Management – internationally recognized methods for optimizing production processes, reducing waste and increasing operational efficiency.
Beyond theoretical learning, the training focused on practical solutions that participants can apply directly within their own enterprises. The integration of German business experience and international best practices provided valuable insights into increasing competitiveness, improving productivity and adapting to rapidly changing market demands.
On the second day, participants visited the University of Information Technology and Management in Karshi, where they explored a national handicrafts exhibition showcasing traditional garments, jewelry and artisanal products. The exhibition encouraged dialogue between entrepreneurs and highlighted opportunities for combining cultural heritage with modern business development.
A key highlight of the programme was the study visit to Bunyodkor Textile, one of the region’s leading vertically integrated textile enterprises. Participants had the opportunity to observe modern production processes, management systems and export-oriented operations firsthand. The visit facilitated direct exchanges between entrepreneurs and industry practitioners, allowing participants to gain practical insights into efficient manufacturing and international quality standards.
In addition, participants visited the Kashkadarya Light Industry Technical College, where discussions were held on strengthening cooperation between educational institutions and manufacturing enterprises. Particular attention was given to the development of workforce skills in the textile sector and the importance of aligning educational programmes with the needs of industry.
The visit also provided an opportunity for an exchange of experience on dual education approaches, including practical mechanisms for combining classroom learning with workplace-based training.
Participants discussed international practices, including elements of the German dual education model, and explored opportunities for further cooperation aimed at preparing a skilled and competitive workforce for Uzbekistan’s textile and apparel industry.
The forum served not only as a learning platform but also as a bridge connecting active women entrepreneurs from different regions of Uzbekistan. Through networking sessions and discussions, participants established new professional connections and explored opportunities for future partnerships and joint initiatives.
The GUZ Partners project remains committed to supporting women’s in a textile sector, strengthening the competitiveness of Uzbekistan’s textile sector, and promoting the adoption of international experience and innovative business practices across the country.
On June 3, a practical training session on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital technologies was organized for specialists of the Uztextileprom Association and women entrepreneurs from the Fergana Valley within the framework of the GUZ Partners international cooperation project. The training aimed to strengthen participants’ digital competencies and demonstrate practical applications of AI tools for business development, marketing, and e-commerce in the textile sector.