New youth center opens in Osh, Kyrgyzstan, with Russian support

Osh, Kyrgyzstan, has inaugurated a new youth center aimed at becoming a hub for the city's young population. The facility, which can accommodate up to 120,000 young residents, was opened on June 3rd, according to the UNDP press service in Kyrgyzstan. The project represents a significant investment in the city's youth infrastructure.

The construction of the center, spanning over 1,000 square meters, was funded primarily by the Osh municipal budget, which allocated around $435,000. An additional $132,000 from the Russian Federation was used for interior finishing, furniture, and IT equipment, bringing the total investment to approximately $525,000. This collaborative effort highlights the commitment to enhancing opportunities for young people in Osh.

The center is designed to be a multifaceted platform for learning, professional growth, and civic engagement. Plans include offering courses in Russian, English, and German, alongside programs like "Jash Jaragman" to develop leadership and public speaking skills for individuals aged 16 to 25. It will also provide preparation for the ORT (General Aptitude Test) through the "Young Teachers PRO" program, alongside various educational and creative projects. The facility is equipped for conferences, training sessions, and co-working.

This initiative is part of a broader effort by the UNDP, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Information, and Youth Policy, to establish youth centers across Kyrgyzstan. Over the past decade, 20 such centers have been created nationwide. The Osh project was realized through the joint efforts of the Osh mayor's office and the UNDP, with crucial financial backing from Russia. The opening ceremony was attended by Osh Mayor Janybek Arykbayev, Russian Consul General Roman Svistun, and UNDP Permanent Representative Alexandra Solovyova.