Zero Hunger
End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture
Central Asian University is committed to contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2 - Zero Hunger
by addressing food insecurity, promoting equitable access to nutrition, and fostering a culture of solidarity and social responsibility. The University acknowledges that hunger is not only a global challenge but also a local concern that affects the well-being and dignity of individuals. Therefore, CAU integrates education, community service, and social engagement into its institutional mission to help reduce hunger and promote compassion within society.
Every year during the holy month of Ramadan, CAU organizes a university-wide Iftar program, providing free meals for students, faculty members, and staff. This initiative ensures that everyone within the university community, regardless of their economic background, can enjoy nutritious food and participate in a shared cultural experience. The Iftar gatherings take place daily on campus and bring together people from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds, creating an atmosphere of unity, gratitude, and collective well-being. This long-standing initiative reflects the University’s broader values of inclusivity, care, and mutual respect, reinforcing the idea that compassion is central to the educational mission of CAU.
Beyond the campus, CAU students actively engage in charitable outreach activities during Ramadan. Volunteers organize food distribution events where they share bottled water, hurmo (dates), and prepare meals with individuals and families facing financial difficulties. These acts of kindness not only provide immediate relief to those in need but also raise awareness among students about the realities of hunger and social inequality. The students’ involvement in these activities reflects their growing sense of civic responsibility and their understanding that small acts of generosity can have a meaningful impact on community welfare.
Student Initiatives Supporting Zero Hunger
Throughout the academic year, Central Asian University students continue to demonstrate their deep commitment to social equity and sustainable community development through donation campaigns aimed at supporting low-income families across Uzbekistan. These campaigns focus on collecting and distributing essential food items such as rice, oil, flour, sugar, and other basic products that are vital for daily nutrition. The entire process from identifying families in need to organizing collection points and delivering the packages is carried out by students with strong guidance from university mentors and student clubs.
Through these initiatives, students not only contribute to reducing food insecurity but also develop critical soft skills such as leadership, organization, and empathy. Each campaign reflects Central Asian University’s broader mission to promote civic responsibility and align university activities with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger. The campaigns serve as a practical extension of the classroom experience, transforming theoretical knowledge into meaningful community impact. By taking active roles in these efforts, students embody the values of compassion, inclusion, and social responsibility, demonstrating how higher education can be a driving force in building a hunger-free future.
Through these initiatives, students not only contribute to reducing food insecurity but also develop critical soft skills such as leadership, organization, and empathy. Each campaign reflects Central Asian University’s broader mission to promote civic responsibility and align university activities with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger. The campaigns serve as a practical extension of the classroom experience, transforming theoretical knowledge into meaningful community impact. By taking active roles in these efforts, students embody the values of compassion, inclusion, and social responsibility, demonstrating how higher education can be a driving force in building a hunger-free future.
Fostering Community and Sustainability Through Shared Traditions
The University’s dedication to Zero Hunger extends beyond charitable activities to initiatives that nurture unity, inclusivity, and awareness through shared cultural experiences. One of the most significant examples is the annual Plov Masterclass, where students, faculty, and administrative staff collaborate to prepare Uzbekistan’s beloved national dish, plov. This event serves not only as a celebration of the country’s rich culinary heritage but also as a reflection of the University’s values of cooperation, generosity, and social cohesion.
During the Plov Masterclass, participants work together to source ingredients, prepare meals, and share the food in a welcoming communal setting. The process emphasizes teamwork, mutual respect, and the spirit of giving echoing the broader mission of ensuring food security and fostering sustainable consumption habits. Beyond its cultural significance, the event also serves as a platform for dialogue on sustainable cooking practices, reducing food waste, and supporting local food producers, aligning with the principles of SDG 2: Zero Hunger and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
Through this initiative, CAU reinforces the idea that combating hunger is not limited to providing food but also involves cultivating awareness about sustainability, cultural appreciation, and shared responsibility. The Plov Masterclass transforms a traditional meal into a meaningful act of unity and learning, reminding the university community that food connects people, strengthens empathy, and promotes a collective commitment to a more sustainable future.
During the Plov Masterclass, participants work together to source ingredients, prepare meals, and share the food in a welcoming communal setting. The process emphasizes teamwork, mutual respect, and the spirit of giving echoing the broader mission of ensuring food security and fostering sustainable consumption habits. Beyond its cultural significance, the event also serves as a platform for dialogue on sustainable cooking practices, reducing food waste, and supporting local food producers, aligning with the principles of SDG 2: Zero Hunger and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
Through this initiative, CAU reinforces the idea that combating hunger is not limited to providing food but also involves cultivating awareness about sustainability, cultural appreciation, and shared responsibility. The Plov Masterclass transforms a traditional meal into a meaningful act of unity and learning, reminding the university community that food connects people, strengthens empathy, and promotes a collective commitment to a more sustainable future.
CAU’s initiatives in support of SDG 2: Zero Hunger extend far beyond immediate charitable actions; they are rooted in a long-term vision to cultivate awareness, responsibility, and innovation in addressing food security challenges. The University’s approach combines education, research, and community engagement to ensure that sustainability is not viewed as a temporary effort but as an integral part of the institutional culture. By integrating food security topics into interdisciplinary learning and extracurricular programs, CAU encourages students to think critically about the global and local dimensions of hunger, equitable food access, and the sustainable use of resources.
The University’s emphasis on empathy-driven education ensures that students not only acquire professional expertise in their respective fields but also develop a profound understanding of their social responsibility in contributing to community well-being. Through various volunteer programs, awareness campaigns, and cultural events, CAU provides its students with opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges, reinforcing the connection between academic learning and social impact.
Moreover, the University’s leadership actively supports initiatives that promote sustainability and inclusive growth, fostering a sense of shared purpose among students, faculty, and administrative staff. These collective efforts strengthen CAU’s position as an institution that integrates sustainability into both its academic practices and community development strategies. By combining volunteerism, cultural engagement, and institutional support, Central Asian University adopts a holistic and human-centered approach to combating hunger and promoting food equity.
The initiatives undertaken by CAU’s community contribute to reducing food insecurity, enhancing social cohesion, and inspiring long-term commitment to positive societal change. Through these ongoing actions, CAU exemplifies the true spirit of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by cultivating a campus environment grounded in generosity, inclusion, sustainability, and respect for human dignity. The University stands as a model for how higher education institutions can drive progress toward a hunger-free and equitable future through education, innovation, and collective responsibility.
Zero Hunger- SDG 2
2.2.1 - Measurement of Food Waste Generated from University Food Services
Food Waste Management at Central Asian University
The CAU Cafeteria is a modern two-story building designed for comfort and convenience, offering a welcoming space where students and staff can eat, relax, or study. It serves over 50 dishes daily, including salads, soups, hot meals, vegetarian and vegan options, desserts, and drinks—all prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
CAU promotes healthy eating and sustainability through balanced meals, eco-friendly materials, and efforts to reduce food waste. In 2025, the university reduced total organic waste from 82 tons to 74 tons, thanks to food-waste segregation, composting, and awareness campaigns.
Food waste dropped from 38 tons to 34 tons, mainly due to portion control and partnerships that redistribute edible leftovers. Leaf and landscaping waste also decreased, and more waste was reused (20 tons), down-cycled (6 tons), or upcycled (3 tons) into compost for campus green areas.
After each meal, canteen staff separate organic and non-organic waste, ensuring proper collection and composting. These actions demonstrate CAU’s commitment to sustainability and responsible waste management.
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Food Waste Management at Central Asian University
The CAU Cafeteria is a modern two-story building designed for comfort and convenience, offering a welcoming space where students and staff can eat, relax, or study. It serves over 50 dishes daily, including salads, soups, hot meals, vegetarian and vegan options, desserts, and drinks—all prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
CAU promotes healthy eating and sustainability through balanced meals, eco-friendly materials, and efforts to reduce food waste. In 2025, the university reduced total organic waste from 82 tons to 74 tons, thanks to food-waste segregation, composting, and awareness campaigns.
Food waste dropped from 38 tons to 34 tons, mainly due to portion control and partnerships that redistribute edible leftovers. Leaf and landscaping waste also decreased, and more waste was reused (20 tons), down-cycled (6 tons), or upcycled (3 tons) into compost for campus green areas.
After each meal, canteen staff separate organic and non-organic waste, ensuring proper collection and composting. These actions demonstrate CAU’s commitment to sustainability and responsible waste management.
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2.2.2.1- Total Food Waste
Annual Measurement of Food Waste on Campus
This indicator measures the total amount of food waste generated by the university’s food services in a given year. It includes all leftover, uneaten, or discarded food from cafeterias, dining halls, and other food outlets on campus.
The total is measured in metric tons and reflects the university’s efforts to monitor and manage food waste. Tracking this data helps identify waste reduction opportunities and supports sustainability initiatives.
Annual Measurement of Food Waste on Campus
This indicator measures the total amount of food waste generated by the university’s food services in a given year. It includes all leftover, uneaten, or discarded food from cafeterias, dining halls, and other food outlets on campus.
The total is measured in metric tons and reflects the university’s efforts to monitor and manage food waste. Tracking this data helps identify waste reduction opportunities and supports sustainability initiatives.
2.2.2.2 - Campus Population
CAU Campus Community Overview
The total campus population at Central Asian University comprises approximately 2,178 students alongside 710 staff members, encompassing academic, administrative, and operational personnel.
This diverse community contributes to a vibrant and dynamic university environment, fostering collaboration, innovation, and growth. Together, students and staff make up the core of CAU’s educational mission, driving academic excellence and supporting the institution’s commitment to sustainable development and inclusive learning.
CAU Campus Community Overview
The total campus population at Central Asian University comprises approximately 2,178 students alongside 710 staff members, encompassing academic, administrative, and operational personnel.
This diverse community contributes to a vibrant and dynamic university environment, fostering collaboration, innovation, and growth. Together, students and staff make up the core of CAU’s educational mission, driving academic excellence and supporting the institution’s commitment to sustainable development and inclusive learning.
2.3.1 - Student Food Insecurity Programme
Student-Led Food Donation Campaigns Supporting Low-Income Families
Throughout the academic year, Central Asian University students actively participate in donation campaigns to support low-income families across Uzbekistan. These campaigns collect and distribute essential food items such as rice, oil, flour, and sugar.
Organized by student clubs with guidance from university mentors, the initiatives involve identifying families in need, coordinating collection points, and delivering food packages.
These efforts not only help reduce food insecurity but also develop students’ leadership, organization, and empathy skills. This programme reflects CAU’s commitment to social equity and sustainable community development, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger.
Student-Led Food Donation Campaigns Supporting Low-Income Families
Throughout the academic year, Central Asian University students actively participate in donation campaigns to support low-income families across Uzbekistan. These campaigns collect and distribute essential food items such as rice, oil, flour, and sugar.
Organized by student clubs with guidance from university mentors, the initiatives involve identifying families in need, coordinating collection points, and delivering food packages.
These efforts not only help reduce food insecurity but also develop students’ leadership, organization, and empathy skills. This programme reflects CAU’s commitment to social equity and sustainable community development, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger.
2.3.2 - Interventions to Prevent or Alleviate Student Hunger
Free Iftar Meals and Affordable Dining for Students
Central Asian University supports students’ nutritional needs by offering free meals for iftar during the holy month of Ramadan, ensuring that students and staff can break their fast with a nutritious and welcoming meal.
In addition, the campus cafeteria provides a wide variety of meals at affordable prices throughout the year, making healthy and balanced food accessible to all students and staff. These initiatives demonstrate the university’s commitment to student well-being and fostering an inclusive campus environment.
Free Iftar Meals and Affordable Dining for Students
Central Asian University supports students’ nutritional needs by offering free meals for iftar during the holy month of Ramadan, ensuring that students and staff can break their fast with a nutritious and welcoming meal.
In addition, the campus cafeteria provides a wide variety of meals at affordable prices throughout the year, making healthy and balanced food accessible to all students and staff. These initiatives demonstrate the university’s commitment to student well-being and fostering an inclusive campus environment.
2.3.3 - Sustainable Food Choices on Campus
Promoting Vegetarian, Vegan, and Sustainable Food Options at CAU
Central Asian University is committed to promoting sustainable and healthy eating habits across campus by offering a wide variety of food options that cater to diverse dietary needs and preferences.
The university’s cafeteria works closely with its partner, Green Food, to provide a range of vegetarian and vegan meals that are both nutritious and environmentally friendly. These meals are thoughtfully prepared to ensure they meet the highest standards of taste and quality, while also supporting sustainability goals by reducing the reliance on animal-based products.
Understanding the importance of catering to different dietary requirements, the university is planning to introduce a special diet food section in the near future. This section will offer meals designed for individuals with specific nutritional needs, such as low-calorie, low-sodium, or allergen-free options.
Moreover, the cafeteria’s second floor offers an expanded menu featuring a variety of choices that include ample vegan and vegetarian options, making it easy for students, faculty, and staff to select meals aligned with their personal values and health goals.
By providing these sustainable food choices, Central Asian University not only supports individual well-being but also contributes to reducing the campus’s overall environmental footprint. These efforts reflect CAU’s dedication to fostering a campus culture that values health, sustainability, and inclusivity in food consumption
Promoting Vegetarian, Vegan, and Sustainable Food Options at CAU
Central Asian University is committed to promoting sustainable and healthy eating habits across campus by offering a wide variety of food options that cater to diverse dietary needs and preferences.
The university’s cafeteria works closely with its partner, Green Food, to provide a range of vegetarian and vegan meals that are both nutritious and environmentally friendly. These meals are thoughtfully prepared to ensure they meet the highest standards of taste and quality, while also supporting sustainability goals by reducing the reliance on animal-based products.
Understanding the importance of catering to different dietary requirements, the university is planning to introduce a special diet food section in the near future. This section will offer meals designed for individuals with specific nutritional needs, such as low-calorie, low-sodium, or allergen-free options.
Moreover, the cafeteria’s second floor offers an expanded menu featuring a variety of choices that include ample vegan and vegetarian options, making it easy for students, faculty, and staff to select meals aligned with their personal values and health goals.
By providing these sustainable food choices, Central Asian University not only supports individual well-being but also contributes to reducing the campus’s overall environmental footprint. These efforts reflect CAU’s dedication to fostering a campus culture that values health, sustainability, and inclusivity in food consumption
2.3.4 - Healthy and Affordable Food Choices for All
Accessible, Nutritious, and Affordable Meals Across Campus
Central Asian University places a strong emphasis on promoting health and well-being by providing a variety of healthy and affordable food options across campus.
The university cafeteria offers a diverse menu that caters to different dietary needs and preferences, including fresh salads, vegetarian and vegan dishes, and balanced hot meals that are carefully prepared each day using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Affordability is a key consideration at CAU, with prices structured to be accessible for all members of the university community, including students, faculty, and staff.
By offering reasonably priced meals without compromising on quality, the cafeteria helps to ensure that everyone can maintain a healthy diet without financial strain. Through these efforts, Central Asian University demonstrates its dedication to fostering a supportive campus environment where healthy eating is encouraged and accessible to all.
Accessible, Nutritious, and Affordable Meals Across Campus
Central Asian University places a strong emphasis on promoting health and well-being by providing a variety of healthy and affordable food options across campus.
The university cafeteria offers a diverse menu that caters to different dietary needs and preferences, including fresh salads, vegetarian and vegan dishes, and balanced hot meals that are carefully prepared each day using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Affordability is a key consideration at CAU, with prices structured to be accessible for all members of the university community, including students, faculty, and staff.
By offering reasonably priced meals without compromising on quality, the cafeteria helps to ensure that everyone can maintain a healthy diet without financial strain. Through these efforts, Central Asian University demonstrates its dedication to fostering a supportive campus environment where healthy eating is encouraged and accessible to all.
2.3.5 - Interventions to Prevent or Alleviate Staff Hunger
Nutritional Support and Meal Benefits for University Staff
Central Asian University takes an active approach to supporting the nutritional needs of its staff. According to staff employment contracts, operational staff members are provided with free lunch during working days as part of their benefits package. This ensures that essential personnel who support the daily functioning of the university have reliable access to nutritious meals.
For academic and administrative staff, the university allocates a monthly lunch allowance, which helps subsidize their meal costs. This financial support allows these staff members to enjoy healthy and affordable food options without additional financial burden.
Beyond these measures, the campus cafeteria offers a wide variety of meals, including balanced and nutritious options at affordable prices, accessible to all staff members.
The cafeteria emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients and caters to diverse dietary needs, helping promote overall well-being within the university community. These combined initiatives reflect CAU’s commitment to staff welfare and recognize the importance of ensuring all employees have consistent access to healthy and affordable food.
Nutritional Support and Meal Benefits for University Staff
Central Asian University takes an active approach to supporting the nutritional needs of its staff. According to staff employment contracts, operational staff members are provided with free lunch during working days as part of their benefits package. This ensures that essential personnel who support the daily functioning of the university have reliable access to nutritious meals.
For academic and administrative staff, the university allocates a monthly lunch allowance, which helps subsidize their meal costs. This financial support allows these staff members to enjoy healthy and affordable food options without additional financial burden.
Beyond these measures, the campus cafeteria offers a wide variety of meals, including balanced and nutritious options at affordable prices, accessible to all staff members.
The cafeteria emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients and caters to diverse dietary needs, helping promote overall well-being within the university community. These combined initiatives reflect CAU’s commitment to staff welfare and recognize the importance of ensuring all employees have consistent access to healthy and affordable food.
2.4.1 - Number of Graduates
CAU 2025 Graduates: Fostering Diversity and Academic Excellence Across Faculties
In 2025, Central Asian University celebrated the successful graduation of students from a wide range of academic faculties, reflecting both the diversity and growth of the university community.
These graduation figures highlight CAU’s commitment to gender inclusivity, academic excellence, and the development of skilled professionals across diverse disciplines. The university continues to foster an environment where students of all backgrounds can thrive and succeed in their chosen fields.
CAU 2025 Graduates: Fostering Diversity and Academic Excellence Across Faculties
In 2025, Central Asian University celebrated the successful graduation of students from a wide range of academic faculties, reflecting both the diversity and growth of the university community.
- Accounting & Finance: 26 graduates (15 male, 11 female)
- English Language Teaching and Educational Management (ELTEM): 127 graduates (9 male, 118 female)
- Architecture and Design: 12 graduates (5 male, 7 female)
- Economics: 19 graduates (12 male, 7 female)
- Computer Science: 41 graduates (30 male, 11 female)
- International Business: 20 graduates (8 male, 12 female)
- Medical School: 113 graduates (50 male, 63 female)
These graduation figures highlight CAU’s commitment to gender inclusivity, academic excellence, and the development of skilled professionals across diverse disciplines. The university continues to foster an environment where students of all backgrounds can thrive and succeed in their chosen fields.