#Uzbekistan #Truck Driver #Proud Partners #Angren

The Launch of Uzbekistan Proud Academy for Truck Drivers

In a significant step towards enhancing human resource development in the transportation sector, the Uzbekistan Proud Academy (UPA) officially opened its doors on February 16, 2026. This initiative, spearheaded by Proud Partners, a leading company based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, aims to train Uzbek nationals aspiring to work as truck drivers in Japan. The project has garnered support from the Uzbekistan government, particularly from the Cabinet-level Migration Authority, showcasing a robust bilateral cooperation model.

Training Objectives and Structure

The primary goal of UPA is to provide quality training for truck drivers, designated as 'Specified Skilled Workers Type 1', thereby supporting Japan's transportation infrastructure. The academy can accommodate up to 700 students, with the first cohort of approximately 300 students already engaged in their studies. They are currently residing in dormitories provided by the Uzbekistan government and are undergoing six months of Japanese language training.

Following this phase, the students will participate in a comprehensive safety education program and practical driving skills training over the next two to four months. This curriculum will teach them Japanese traffic laws, safe driving practices, and emergency response techniques, equipping them to become effective contributors to Japan's logistics landscape.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

To enhance the training experience, a Japanese-style driving school is currently under construction on the academy grounds, complete with ten medium-sized trucks for practical exercises. Expected to be completed by early summer, this facility is poised to provide students with the hands-on experience necessary to excel in their future roles.

The academy doesn't just focus on technical skills but also aims to foster cultural exchange through various educational and cultural activities, promoting mutual understanding between Japan and Uzbekistan.

Voices from the Inauguration Ceremony

During the grand opening ceremony, various dignitaries highlighted the project's significance. The local government officials expressed their optimism, emphasizing the mutual benefits derived from this partnership between Uzbekistan and Japan. They envisioned a future where numerous young people would gain high-quality employment opportunities in Japan.

Alberto Okamura, the Director of Proud Partners, echoed these sentiments, affirming the commitment to train students not only in driving skills but also in essential life skills that would aid them in successful careers abroad. Kazuki Sayunga, the local representative, encouraged the first batch of students to embrace the challenges of learning Japanese and adapting to a new driving culture, assuring them that their efforts would lead to bright futures.

Future Prospects

As part of its long-term vision, UPA plans to strengthen and expand its training systems, paving the way for subsequent cohorts while exploring the potential for extending similar programs across other regions and professions. The success of UPA could serve as a model for future collaborations and initiatives aimed at improving labor mobility and skills development for various vocational fields.

In addition to training, there are plans to aid Japanese companies interested in expanding into the Uzbekistan market by providing comprehensive support. This initiative reflects the broader objective of sustainable growth and collaboration between the two nations, enriched by their shared respect for labor and quality standards.

The initiative not only addresses the pressing labor shortages in Japan but also contributes to the creation of successful career paths for young Uzbek nationals, further upgrading the bilateral relations and fostering strong ties between these culturally unique nations.

Ultimately, the Uzbekistan Proud Academy stands as a beacon of opportunity—transforming the dreams of many young individuals into achievable realities, nurturing a workforce that can thrive in Japan's demanding logistics sector.