Amid the closure of educational opportunities in Ukraine due to the ongoing war, the 93-year-old State Samarkand Medical University in Uzbekistan is witnessing a remarkable upswing in the enrollment of Indian students. In contrast to the previous intake of around 100 to 150 Indian students until 2021, the numbers have soared to 3,000 in 2023. Notably, the university has accommodated over 1,000 Indian students who had to abandon their MBBS courses in various Ukrainian universities due to the conflict.
Dr. Zafar Aminov, the Vice Chancellor of State Samarkand Medical University, highlighted the university’s proactive measures to ensure the comfort and integration of Indian students. This includes the hiring of over 40 teachers from India, fostering a cultural closeness that aids in effective student management.
As Ukraine, once a popular destination for Indian medical aspirants, remains inaccessible due to the war, students are exploring alternative options. The university’s decision to accommodate Indian students, particularly those affected by the conflict, has led to increased collaboration with educational consultants.
Despite the longer duration of the MBBS program in Uzbekistan (six years compared to five and a half years in India), the appeal lies in the use of English as the medium of instruction, a peaceful atmosphere, affordable fees, and practical exposure. Consultants emphasize the security and comfort that Uzbekistan offers, particularly for Indian students.
Sunil Sharma, Director of MD House, a consultancy firm, described Samarkand as a “hidden gem of Central Asia” and highlighted the security it provides for Indian students, especially girls. Students appreciate the peaceful environment, quality education delivered by teachers from India and Pakistan, and the absence of language barriers.
The students themselves attest to the positive aspects of studying in Uzbekistan. Mohamad Aftab from Bihar noted the peaceful environment and language
Advantage, with teachers imparting knowledge without language barriers. Vishal Kataria from Haryana expressed a preference for a country with a lifestyle similar to India, making Uzbekistan an ideal choice.
Consultants believe that the surge in Indian student enrollment is not merely a temporary trend but will continue in the coming years. One key factor contributing to this sustained interest is that students in Uzbekistan don’t need to take additional exams for medical practice, a requirement in many other countries. This distinction positions Uzbekistan as an appealing option for Indian students seeking medical education abroad.
Mrinal Kumar Ray, a consultant from Dream MBBS Abroad, explained that while studying in Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Georgia, or other countries requires students to take a licensing exam, choosing Uzbekistan or Samarkand University exempts students from this step. The medical degree obtained from Uzbekistan serves as a license, eliminating the need for additional exams in India.
In conclusion, approximately 25,000 Indian students pursue MBBS abroad annually, and Uzbekistan’s State Samarkand Medical University emerges as a promising alternative, drawing attention for its academic offerings, language advantages, and the ease of practicing medicine without additional exams. The university’s appeal extends beyond being a short-term opportunity resulting from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, positioning it as a long-term preference for Indian medical aspirants.