In 2023, minors in Uzbekistan were responsible for committing 3,500 criminal offenses, of which 2,280 were attributed to school students. A statement was made by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on the importance of fostering a patriotic spirit among schoolchildren to create an "immunity against crime".
During a video conference on Monday, President Mirziyoyev underscored that discipline and morality remain one of the most challenging issues in schools, as reported by his press secretary.
The president criticized the current system, where school directors are asked for solutions, yet local governors, responsible for the National Commission on Children's Issues, supposedly neglect weekly school visits to review students' conditions and upbringing.
Consequently, it has been determined that the role of school inspector-psychologists will be transferred from the Ministry of Internal Affairs to the National Guard system. Additionally, President Mirziyoyev emphasized the need to formulate a system that instills a sense of patriotism in students, thereby creating an "immunity" against unlawful behavior.
Emphasis was placed on the significance of engaging children in meaningful activities during their free time, guiding them toward appropriate vocational paths, and cooperatively addressing any educational or behavioral problems with the help of parents and community activists.
President Mirziyoyev suggested that community leaders tie engagements with schools and parents on a monthly basis to discuss the environment in neighborhoods and educational institutions. Increasingly frequent interactions with notable poets, writers, athletes, veterans, and respected members of society in schools were also recommended as beneficial.
Moreover, a directive has been issued calling for the regular provision of national content to neighborhoods and educational institutions, which will aim to improve child-rearing practices and broaden parents' perspectives.
Authorities have been tasked with launching an electronic interaction platform based on a "school-parent-neighborhood" chain, aiming to facilitate communication and responsibility.
Analyzing popular social networks among young people is crucial, to shield them from harmful influences and to utilize the positive aspects effectively. Simple guides will be generated for parents and students to navigate these platforms safely.
Materials in simple language will be developed for parents, covering critical questions about helping children adapt to school life, foster good manners, interact with others, develop a strong desire for learning, and choose careers that suit society and transitioning into adult life.
"If the aforementioned initiatives are put into practice, there will be responsibility on the part of parents, obligations for teachers, confidence in students, quality in education, and supervision in the neighborhood," the president said.
