Career paths are rarely linear, especially in fast-moving industries shaped by technology. For Sardor Tojiev, a graduate of the Central Asian University’s Accounting and Finance Faculty in Business School, what began as an interest in finance has evolved into a career at the intersection of artificial intelligence, healthcare, and digital transformation.
When choosing a university, Sardor had two clear motivations. Finance had always interested him, partly because his father worked in the field, and CAU offered the opportunity to pursue that interest on a full scholarship. Looking back, he says that decision became the starting point for a career he had never originally imagined.
His perspective changed during an internship at an AI Lab, where he worked on technology-driven projects and gained first-hand experience with artificial intelligence. It was there that he discovered how dynamic the industry truly is.
Unlike many professions with established routines, AI demands continuous adaptation. New technologies, tools, and approaches emerge every few months, making learning an essential part of the job rather than an occasional requirement.
“The field changes constantly,” Sardor explains. “There is no routine. Every two or three months, there is something new to learn.”
Today, Sardor works on implementing artificial intelligence solutions in healthcare, helping develop systems designed to improve patient care and streamline clinical operations. One of the most exciting projects involves building what he describes as the “brain” of a modern clinic - a centralized AI-powered system capable of collecting patient information, analyzing medical histories, and understanding individual needs to support healthcare professionals in making more informed decisions.
His responsibilities go far beyond technology itself. Sardor oversees the implementation of complex digital systems inside medical institutions, ensuring that every component is integrated correctly with existing infrastructure while coordinating third-party services and organizing staff training. Successful implementation, he believes, depends just as much on people as it does on software.
Introducing new technologies, however, is rarely without challenges. One of the biggest obstacles has been overcoming resistance to change. Teams often worry that artificial intelligence will replace their jobs or significantly alter familiar workflows. Building trust, explaining the value of new systems, and helping employees adapt have become essential parts of his role.
Sardor also believes Uzbekistan is still at the beginning of its digital transformation journey. While significant progress has already been made, widespread adoption of advanced AI technologies will require both technological development and greater readiness among organizations and society.
Among the milestones he is most proud of is taking part in the integration of a large-scale digital healthcare system for the Social by AKFA, which serves approximately 500,000 patients every year. Managing a project of that scale has given him valuable experience in coordinating complex processes while contributing to the modernization of healthcare services.
Reflecting on his time at CAU, Sardor says the university played an important role in shaping his professional mindset. Beyond academic knowledge, he values the environment that encourages students to share ideas, take initiative, and pursue new opportunities without hesitation.
“CAU gave me opportunities to grow,” he says. “It was a place where you weren’t afraid to express your opinion and develop professionally.”
“CAU gave me opportunities to grow,” he says. “It was a place where you weren’t afraid to express your opinion and develop professionally.”
Asked what skills have been most important throughout his career, Sardor highlights communication and the ability to solve complex problems. While technical knowledge is essential, he believes success in AI depends even more on curiosity and a commitment to continuous self-education.
“There is no single university or textbook that can teach you everything about AI,” he explains. “You have to study independently, research new topics, and constantly deepen your understanding.”
His advice to today’s students reflects the same philosophy. Whether they come from business, finance, engineering, or another discipline, Sardor encourages them to remain curious, keep learning, and never assume they already know enough.
“Study, research, and work,” he says. “AI is still a new field, and no one knows everything. Even without a technical background, you can become an expert if you’re willing to learn continuously.”
For Sardor Tojiev, the future belongs to those who embrace change rather than fear it. His journey from finance student to AI specialist demonstrates that with curiosity, persistence, and a willingness to learn, careers can evolve in unexpected and impactful ways.
