25 Years of UCA:
A Journey of Impact and Inspiration

Ilkhomjon Sidikov

Computer Science Alumni, 2025
Software Engineer, AI startup io.net

Ilkhomjon Sidikov, a software engineer at the unicorn startup io.net, was among the first IT specialists.

“I got accepted to the University of Central Asia’s Computer Science program and moved to Naryn in 2020. I spent five years there — yes, the winters are cold, but the university makes up for it with strong faculty, high academic standards, an international environment, and incredible people all around.”

From Naryn to Paris: A UCA Graduate’s Journey

From a quiet mountain village in At-Bashy, Naryn oblast, to the vibrant streets of Paris, Nurlan Nogoibaev’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of education, resilience, and a deep passion for making a difference.

Shahnoza Dodikhudoeva

“As a Computer Science graduate from my university, I had the opportunity to explore a wide range of fields within the discipline, from software engineering to network systems. My passion for Data Science was sparked by courses in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence, which provided a solid foundation for my future master’s studies and professional work.”

Shahnoza Dodikhudoeva, Computer Science, Alumna, Class of 2023

Khonum Vafodorova

"UCA gave me an incredible opportunity to receive a high-quality education from leading professionals without having to leave my country. One of the most memorable experiences was my exchange semester in Norway, where I studied Business Administration."

Khonum Vafodorova, Global Economics, Alumna, Class of 2023

Aibek Niiazaliev

Communications and Media Alumni, 2023
Founder & CEO of Rocket Group, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

Built with UCA’s support, Rocket Groups is a platform where students gain real-world experience through hands-on projects. Aibek credits UCA for crucial personal and professional development throughout his journey

“We started from something small, and now it’s our time to go big, to create products that serve the world and solve real challenges!” – shares Aibek

Hangoma Kokulova

“My dynamic undergraduate studies have equipped me with the versatility to pursue a Master's degree in Urban Management, building on my background in Environmental Sciences.”

Hangoma Kokulova, Earth and Environmental Science, Alumna, Class of 2022

Munira Malakbozova

“UCA taught us how to be compassionate and responsible, not only to yourself and your families, but towards your community and the world. My faculty, student life team and classmates have left a huge impact on my life, and these five years have certainly shifted my perspective of the future.”

Munira Malakbozova, Global Economics, Alumna, Class of 2021

Karlygash Kussainova

Computer Sciences Alumni, 2021
Masters of Computer Science at Simon Fraser University, Canada, Data Engineer in Vancouver, part-time faculty (remote) at UCA

Karlygash credits UCA with laying a strong foundation for her achievements. One of the most meaningful aspects of her UCA experience has been the emphasis on community and giving back. Karlygash says:

“I carry the lessons and community of UCA with me every day. As someone who once benefited from it, I’m now honored to give back—whether through mentorship, teaching young women in tech, or simply staying connected to the community that shaped me.”

Darika Urgazieva

The University of Central Asia (UCA) graduate Darika Urgazieva recently shared her inspiring journey in an interview with limon.kg. She reflected on her transformative experience at UCA, emphasising how the university equipped her with the skills and confidence to excel professionally and contribute meaningfully to her community. 

Safdar Jan

“The people at UCA—especially the faculty—make it an excellent environment for developing key skills and capabilities essential to understanding the behaviour of economic agents. Above all, the programme taught me to think critically and ask important questions."

Safdar Jan, Global Economics, Alumnus, Class of 2021

Aydana Kubatova

"The most valuable thing UCA has given me is an understanding of what I truly enjoy doing in life. Majoring in Computer Science taught me the most essential skill of our era, in my view—the ability to learn quickly, which is key to succeeding in various fields."

Aydana Kubatova, Computer Science, Alumna,  Class of 2024

Kairat Berdishaliev

Communications and Media Alumni, 2025

Kairat Berdishaliev was honoured with the Presidential Award for Academic Excellence, one of the most prestigious awards  for university students in the Kyrgyz Republic. 

Assylbek Assylkhanov

"I cherish every moment spent at my alma mater, surrounded by people from across Central Asia. Balancing research, gaining hands-on work experience, participating in national sports tournaments, organising student clubs, volunteering, and attending hackathons—all while studying Communications and Media—was only possible at UCA. It’s truly an exceptional place to experience student life."

Assylbek Assylkhanov, Communications and Media, Alumnus, Class of 2023

Suyuna Dadybaeva

"The depth of UCA's academic programme has equipped me with skills necessary to succeed at the graduate school, whereas heavy focus on Central Asia and its development focus has brought forth the clarity to my professional plans and aspirations. Above all, UCA has given me life-long friends and wonderful mentors I cherish greatly."

Suyuna Dadybaeva, Communications and Media, Alumna, Class of 2021