Republic of Tajikistan: Improving the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Secondary Ed

Strategic Context and Objective

The "Improving Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Secondary Education Project" is an initiative financed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to address Tajikistan’s low labor productivity and lack of technical workers. The project aims to build a stronger human capital base by transforming secondary education (grades 5-11) to better prepare students for high-productivity sectors. It seeks to improve learning outcomes in STEM subjects while integrating climate change awareness and promoting digitalization across the education system. Implemented nationwide from December 2023 to December 2029 by the Ministry of Education and Science (MOES) through a dedicated Project Administration Group, the project directly benefits 20 secondary schools, two teacher training institutions (Tajik State Pedagogical University and Dushanbe Pedagogical College), and over 15,000 students, teachers, and education officials.

Curriculum Reform and Teacher Development

The project introduces a modern, skills-based approach to STEM education, moving away from traditional rote learning to emphasize critical thinking, inquiry, and practical problem-solving. It supports the development of new teaching and learning materials—including digital resources and establishes an open-source e-learning platform for the continuous professional development of teachers. Key activities include training 450 STEM teachers and trainers in the new methodology, formative assessment, and laboratory use. School-level assessments will also be updated to accurately measure student competencies, ensuring that the quality of education improves alongside the infrastructure.

Infrastructure Modernization and Climate Resilience

To create an enabling environment for modern STEM education, the project will construct dedicated "STEM blocks" in selected schools. These facilities will house specialized laboratories and classrooms in disaster-resilient, energy-efficient buildings equipped with sex-segregated and accessible WASH facilities. Modern science lab equipment and ICT tools, supported by stable electricity solutions, will be provided to enable hands-on learning. Furthermore, the project integrates climate change education into the curriculum and ensures that all new infrastructure meets enhanced standards for disaster resilience, modeling "green school" principles and building capacity for maintenance and community awareness.

Data-Driven Management and Gender Equality

Recognizing the power of data, the project will develop a School Information System to track student attendance, performance, and dropouts, enabling evidence-based decision-making and early intervention for at-risk students. Critically, the project places a strong emphasis on promoting gender equality through a dedicated "Female-Friendly STEM Education System" output. This includes providing scholarships and stipends for female students and teachers, renovating dormitories, developing women’s leadership and ICT courses, and implementing career guidance programs to encourage girls to pursue STEM studies and careers, thereby creating a sustainable pipeline of female STEM professionals.