Interview about the “Best Inventor” Contest
 

In order to implement the Presidential Decree of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On organizational measures for the implementation of the Innovation Development Strategy for 2022–2026,” a contest titled “Best Inventor” has been announced by Order No. 145 of the General Director of “Uzbekcoal” JSC.

We spoke with Muhammadsalih Otabekov, Lead Specialist of the Department for Foreign Economic Relations and Investment Attraction at “Uzbekcoal” JSC, about the contest’s objectives, directions, and incentive system.

– Mr. Muhammadsalih, what is the main purpose of the “Best Inventor” contest?
– The primary goal is to support innovation. That means identifying and selecting creative ideas and projects proposed by our employees, which offer new solutions to problems and have not been used in production before. According to the abovementioned Presidential Decree, every organization is required to develop innovative projects each year. For example, “Uzbekcoal” JSC planned 3 projects in 2023, 5 in 2024, and this year we aim for 8. By 2026, the number is expected to reach 10.

– Has the company held similar contests in the past?
– No, this is the first time such an important initiative is being conducted in our company.

– Who is eligible to participate in the contest?
– All specialists currently working at our company are eligible to take part.

– How many projects can one participant submit?
– There are no limits. Each participant may submit one or several projects. Naturally, the more projects submitted, the higher the chances of winning.

– Since the announcement, how many applications have been received? What is the level of interest?
– Interest is high! So far, more than ten projects have been submitted. Currently, specialists are reviewing and evaluating them.

– What criteria will be used to evaluate the projects?
– Projects will be evaluated based on several criteria. They must include innovative solutions not previously used in production, aim to improve work processes, and demonstrate high economic efficiency. Additional points will be given for projects that can be implemented quickly and at low cost, generate extra income, or contribute to the saving of raw materials, energy, or other resources.

– Will the winning projects be implemented in production?
– Absolutely. In the final stage of the contest, the top three selected projects will be re-evaluated from a practical implementation standpoint. Those deemed effective will be gradually introduced into the work process.

– We heard that monetary prizes are awarded to the winners. Is that true?
– Yes! Winners will be awarded cash prizes ranging from 8 to 10 times the minimum wage.

– How is the contest organized from an administrative perspective?
– All procedures have been clearly defined by the order of the General Director. For instance, the Department of Foreign Economic Relations and Investment Attraction is responsible for receiving, organizing, and overseeing project submissions — that’s our department. The Information Service will highlight positively evaluated projects via the company's media resources. The Central Accounting Department will handle the allocation of funds for awarding the winners.

– Thank you for the insightful conversation, Mr. Muhammadsalih! We wish all participating specialists the best of luck in the contest.


Interview conducted by Ibrohim JUMABOEV.