UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ ADOPTION OF CASHLESS PAYMENTS IN UZBEKISTAN: BEHAVIOR, TRUST, AND CHALLENGES

Abstract

As Uzbekistan accelerates its transition toward a cashless society through policy and technological reforms,
understanding the perspectives of young citizens is crucial. This article focuses on university students as a key demographic
of early adopters in the cashless transformation. Using an IMRAD structure, it presents the fndings of an original survey
(N = 150) examining students’ payment behaviors, their level of trust in digital fnance, and the challenges they face.
The Introduction outlines the national shift toward digital payments and the importance of youth attitudes in sustaining
this transition. The Literature Review highlights global and local insights on digital payment adoption, including factors of
convenience, security, and generational differences, to provide context for the study. The Methodology details the survey
design and data collection at multiple universities in Uzbekistan, covering usage patterns, perceptions, awareness of
government incentives, and demographics.
Results reveal that an overwhelming majority of students use cashless methods frequently and prefer them for most
transactions, citing convenience and better fnancial tracking as advantages. However, notable concerns are reported:
nearly half worry about cybersecurity, many retain cash for backup due to occasional technical issues, and some are
cautious about a fully cashless future primarily out of concern for less tech-savvy populations. Discussion interprets
these fndings, indicating that while students are largely enthusiastic and trusting of digital payments (with most seeing
them as faster and easier than cash), their experiences underscore the need for continued improvements in security,
reliability, and inclusion. The students’ awareness of broader societal issues (like the digital divide for rural or older people)
suggests they are thoughtful about the implications of a cashless society. The article concludes that university students
in Uzbekistan are poised to be catalysts of the cashless transition – their positive adoption and peer influence can drive
change – but it also stresses policy implications: enhancing educational campaigns, bolstering digital infrastructure, and
ensuring no group is left behind. These insights offer valuable guidance for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to
foster a secure and inclusive cashless economy