to create a collaborative network of academics working in the field, from multiple U.S. universities and to strengthen the exchange of excellence in policy-oriented studies in the Central Asia;

to provide senior scholars the opportunity to discuss critical issues and ongoing developments at policy-oriented workshops together with government agencies and representatives of international organizations;

to introduce the "greater Central Asia" regional studies to the Title VIII program;

to provide government agencies, representatives of international organizations  and academics with opportunities to receive  and discuss first-hand information about political developments, and ethnic and religious conflicts and tensions in the region; and

to involve senior scholars in service to the government through policy-oriented workshops, providing expertise, lectures and presentations.