IT Park Uzbekistan and AICA discuss organizing a joint regional AI hackathon

CEO of IT Park Uzbekistan Abdulahad Kuchkarov met with a delegation from the Central Asia Artificial Intelligence Association (AICA). The AICA delegation was represented by Vladimir Norov, Chairman of the Association, and Behzod Ismailov, Executive Director. During the meeting, the parties discussed prospects for establishing a partnership and organizing a joint regional hackathon in the field of artificial intelligence. As a result of the meeting, an agreement was reached to begin joint work on the initiative and to form a working group.

The Central Asia Artificial Intelligence Association (AICA) is a regional association that brings together experts, companies, and organizations in the field of artificial intelligence across Central Asian countries. The association focuses on developing the AI ecosystem, promoting educational and research initiatives, and strengthening international cooperation in artificial intelligence. AICA actively collaborates with partners from China and the MENA region and implements industry projects aimed at promoting and applying AI technologies in practice.

During the meeting, AICA presented its vision for organizing a regional AI hackathon in 2026. The event is expected to focus on the development of applied AI solutions and to attract startups, students, developers, and AI specialists from across Central Asia. Special emphasis is planned on the practical value of the projects and their potential for further development.

AICA Chairman Vladimir Norov expressed readiness to contribute to the organization of the hackathon by engaging international experts, mentors, and industry partners.

For his part, Abdulahad Kuchkarov, CEO of IT Park Uzbekistan, shared the experience of organizing large-scale events for the technology community, including Digital Startups Awards 2025.

During the meeting, the AICA delegation initiated and discussed the possibility of jointly holding a regional AI hackathon with the participation of AICA and IT Park Uzbekistan.

In particular, it was noted that a joint regional AI hackathon could serve not only as a competitive platform, but also as an effective educational tool for developing practical AI skills among young professionals, training qualified specialists, and forming a sustainable talent pipeline for the regional AI ecosystem.

Following the meeting, the parties agreed to establish a joint working group to further develop the concept and structure of the hackathon. AICA will present a detailed plan for the initiative, after which the partners will proceed with the joint development of the format, themes, and next steps for project implementation.

Cooperation with AICA opens additional opportunities for IT Park Uzbekistan to advance the AI sector, identify talent, and support startups in the field of artificial intelligence. The implementation of joint initiatives will contribute to strengthening the national AI ecosystem, expanding international cooperation, and creating new growth opportunities for Uzbekistan’s technology community.