SAMARKAND, October 22. /Dunyo IA/.  Investments in children's health, adequate nutrition, and early education can increase the realization of their potential in Uzbekistan by 6 percentage points by 2050, stated Aparnaa Somanathan, Regional Director for the Human Development Practice Group at the World Bank for the Europe and Central Asia region, in an interview with Dunyo IA.

According to her, a child born in Uzbekistan today will be able to realize about 60% of their potential as an adult. Targeted investments in key areas of child development will improve this indicator in the long term.

“Investing in children means investing in the future of the country and society”, emphasized the World Bank representative, noting the importance of uniting the efforts of policymakers and experts to enhance the wellbeing of the younger generation.

Aparnaa Somanathan noted that over the past few years, the coverage of children with preschool education has significantly expanded in Uzbekistan, while child mortality rates have decreased. According to her assessment, the results achieved lay the foundation for further improving the quality and accessibility of educational and medical services.

She identified the next crucial step as providing children with the necessary knowledge and skills from an early age, adequate nutrition, and quality medical care. This will allow for the formation of a generation capable of unlocking its potential in the future, working effectively and contributing to the country's economic development.

World Bank remains one of the key partners of Uzbekistan and other countries in the region in the fields of education, healthcare and social policy. The organization intends to continue cooperation aimed at the full development of children and their future contribution to economic growth.

According to Aparnaa Somanathan, the ideas voiced by the President of Uzbekistan are confirmed by many years of scientific research and international experience. Particular importance attaches to supporting child development during the first years of life, when the foundations of their health and future abilities are laid.

World Bank representative emphasized that the opportunities provided to children today largely determine the economic potential, social stability, and wellbeing of society in the future. In this regard, the development of initiatives to support children and the expansion of international cooperation are of particular significance for Uzbekistan.