Uzbekistan: Knauf has launched a consulting centre at the Samarkand State Architecture and Construction Institute, named after Mirzo Ulugbek, on 4 September 2014 in Samarkand, Samarqand Province. This is Knauf's second consulting centre in Uzbekistan. The first was opened in June 2008 under Tashkent State Architecture and Construction Institute, which has proven its efficiency in training skilled builders.
The centre will provide training to all interested parties on the use of modern construction materials. The training programmes are designed for various groups, including individuals who repair their houses on their own as well as professionals. Each trainee will receive technical documentation, manuals and other literature. Dmitry Deripalko, director general of Knauf Gips Bukhara, underlined that the centre will assist young people and builders to receive theoretical and practical skills.
Knauf purchased 30.8% of state assets in Bukharagips for US$1.55m and invested US$6.3m over a three-year period. Knauf currently holds 98.98% stake in the enterprise, while employees and other shareholders hold 1.02%. The enterprise specialises in the production of dry gypsum mixtures and was founded in 1934. Bukharagips owns a gypsum mine with 45Mt of reserves with 90-100% calcium content, a lime mine with 7.8Mt of reserves and several other mines. Knauf launched production of dry gypsum mixtures in 2009 at the 60,000t capacity Bukharagips plant.
