Air Products investing in STEAM education in Uzbekistan

Air Products is working with the U.S. Embassy to establish a state-of-the-art Makerspace in Qarshi, Uzbekistan.  

 U.S. Ambassador to Uzbekistan Jonathan Henick and Air Products Vice President for Central Europe and Central Asia Vaclav Harant officially signed a memorandum of understanding this week to launch the public-private partnership. The goal is to enhance the region’s educational infrastructure and nurturing young talent. 

The creation of this Makerspace is a step towards strengthening core competencies in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) for the youth of Qarshi. It will provide an environment where students can gain new knowledge and acquire practical, hands-on experience.  

Air Products’ industrial projects, including its core investment in Uzbekistan GTL in Qarshi, serve as essential economic and technological contributors.  

The American Makerspace Qarshi investment represents Air Products’ vision of supporting community development. Being the flagship location of Air Products in Uzbekistan, the city of Qarshi will not only help in preparing more skilled professionals for the market but also enhance their awareness of job opportunities in the industrial gas sector empowering them to navigate the job market with confidence and success. 

 Upon signing the MOU, U.S. Ambassador to Uzbekistan  Henick said, “We are delighted to partner with Air Products Uzbekistan on this project. This Makerspace will provide the training and tools young Uzbeks need to succeed in the global economy and will build lasting connections between the people of our two countries.” 

 Air Products Vice President in Central Europe and Central Asia Vaclav Harant said, “We are excited to start this initiative directly investing into the future success of talented young people in Uzbekistan and are looking forward to seeing first results of our joint efforts.” 

 The American Makerspace Qarshi will be a collaborative workspace for making, learning, exploring, and sharing. The space will be open to children, adults, and entrepreneurs and will have a variety of maker equipment, including 3D printers, laser cutters, computers, and more. The space will provide hands on learning and help with critical thinking skills, with participants learning electronics, 3D-design and modeling, coding, robotics and  woodworking.