Uzbekistan Oral Health for Kindergarteners
Lead: Nurses and teachers in training, Seoul National University
Partner: Tashkent State Dental Institute
Timeline: 2025-2026
Funding needed: $20,000 (need assessment funding)
Building Healthy Smiles from the Start: Transforming Preschool Education in Uzbekistan
In Uzbekistan, where nearly half of all children aged 1-9 suffer from untreated dental caries, a revolutionary approach to early childhood education is taking shape. Through an student-led partnership between Seoul National University Global Maternal and Child Oral Health Center and Tashkent State Dental Institute, we're pioneering the integration of oral health education into the nation's Ilk Qadam preschool curriculum.
The Urgent Need
The statistics paint a sobering picture: 47.7% of young children in Uzbekistan have untreated cavities in their primary teeth, while the country has only 5 dentists per 100,000 people. This severe shortage of dental professionals makes preventive education not just important, but essential for protecting children's long-term health.
Our Innovative Approach
We're empowering the educators who are already with children every day. Our project will train approximately 20 preschool teachers from 5 kindergartens, reaching 150 children aged 2-4. These teachers will learn to seamlessly integrate oral health education into daily activities, transforming routine moments into learning opportunities about healthy habits.
Beyond the Classroom
Teachers don't just learn about oral health—they become equipped to engage parents and families, creating a supportive ecosystem around each child. We're developing culturally appropriate materials, demonstration classes, and parent education resources that respect local customs while promoting universal health principles.
Systemic Change
We're creating a formal policy proposal for the Ministry of Preschool and School Education to integrate oral health education into the national curriculum. This isn't just a pilot project—it's the foundation for systemic change that could protect generations of Uzbek children.
When we invest in teachers, we invest in futures. One healthy habit at a time, we're building a healthier Uzbekistan.
