In this regard, in Uzbekistan, the contest for the best essay on the topic "Uzbekistan: the progress made in achieving the Millennium Development Goals" was organized among the students of Uzbekistan universities during the period of 10 - 20 October 2011. The contest was initiated by UNDP "Local Governance Support Project: Participation and Partnership".

A jury, composed of UNDP staff selected the best three essays and seven runner-ups, having carefully examined the works submitted. The works submitted for the competition were judged on the following criteria: creativity, perceptions and knowledge of the author about the theme, full analysis of the theme, accuracy and clarity of presentation.

The winner and runners-up were awarded with the prizes during the ceremony organized by the United Nations Development Programme in Uzbekistan on International Day of United Nations – 24 October, 2011, which took place in “Tashkent Plaza” complex.

The main aim and objectives of the competition were to increase the students' knowledge about the UN activities, the efforts being made towards achieving Millennium Development Goals and results already achieved.