The American University of Central Asia in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan leads in shaping the region’s educational landscape and driving sustainable development in the country through its emphasis on academic excellence, interdisciplinary learning, and community outreach.

Since it opened in 1997, AUCA’s alumni have made significant contributions to Kyrgyzstan’s economy and government, with many holding influential positions in the public and private sectors.

“The value of our graduates to the local economy and society has been substantial,” said AUCA President Timothy O’Connor, Ph.D.

Among AUCA’s most recent milestones is the opening of Makerspace in June, an in-house state-of-the-art facility dedicated to digital fabrication and innovation. Open to the public, Makerspace is part of a broader initiative to support the global “maker movement,” which fosters collaboration on innovative projects and technologies across disciplines and ages.

“This space will bring people together, building communities and fostering democracy in the process,” said O’Connor, who envisions expanding the impact of the Makerspace across Kyrgyzstan and establishing similar hubs in other cities.

The initiative aims to increase access to new technologies and strengthen team-building and community engagement.