Fifth generation networks are being actively deployed and launched commercially around the world. Their adoption makes it possible not only to speed up data transfer, but also provides opportunities for the development of other services and areas like telemedicine, digital learning, intelligent transport, robotic production, and others.
Uzbekistan, along with other countries, is interested in developing fifth-generation networks; the first 5G base stations were installed in Tashkent, with a test launch in 2021. Despite this, there are still many questions regarding the choice of business model for deploying 5G networks, spectrum regulation and building an effective dialogue between regulator and operators.
The International Telecommunication Union conducted a training on "Next Generation Mobile Network Launch (5G/IMT-2020)" to introduce the full range of technological capabilities underpinning 5G technology, examine existing examples of next generation network launches and improve understanding of how government and regulators can help accelerate the national roll-out of 5G technologies and services in Uzbekistan.
More than 100 specialists representing the communication administration, regulators, telecoms operators, equipment manufacturers, research organisations and the private sector of the country participated in the training.
During the training, leading international experts in radio communications, ICT and spectrum regulation, standardisation and implementation of next generation network technologies shared their experiences of 5G network deployment. Participants also reviewed technological trends, key features of 5G networks and various aspects of 5G network launch, especially from the perspective of new services and their promotion strategy, respective business models of operators. On the last day of the training there was an open discussion on various aspects of the 5G network implementation and a report on long-term trends in the 5G network development, as well as forecasts for the 6G network development.
The training was held in the framework of cooperation between the Ministry of Information Technology and Communications Development of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the ITU and the Government (MSIT) of the Republic of Korea.
