Patriotism or disruption? Andijan governor’s 3-day military initiative for school students questioned

A video posted on November 27 on the governor’s official Telegram channel showed a group of students participating in the military program. According to the report, students from nearly 20 schools in the region completed the three-day training.

The Andijan regional administration stated that the initiative was launched in line with a presidential directive aimed at fostering patriotism among youth. However, the directive does not include provisions for conducting such activities during school hours.

Muslimbek Ibrohimov, the press secretary of the Andijan regional administration, explained that the initiative was proposed during meetings held in 100 schools. Schools with schedules accommodating the program agreed to participate.

"Uzbek youth are enthusiastic about this. Many students eagerly expressed their willingness to join, and parents have overwhelmingly supported it,” Ibrohimov said.

He noted that the activity had a positive impact on students’ discipline and respect for education, with some parents even suggesting that similar events be held monthly.

The Ministry of Preschool and School Education issued an official statement, emphasizing that while it supports activities aimed at fostering patriotism, conducting such events during school hours is inappropriate.

"These activities should not interfere with scheduled lessons. The situation in Andijan is under the Ministry’s control, and instructions have been issued to ensure students are not involved in extracurricular activities during school hours,” the statement read.

To compensate for missed lessons, additional classes will be organized for students who participated in the military training.

The controversy arose following a presidential decree signed on November 15 to enhance the pre-conscription training system for youth. While the decree includes plans for practical military exercises in specialized "Courage Schools" twice a year, it does not extend to general education schools or three-day military training programs.

Ibrohimov suggested that if the program aligns with school schedules and continues to receive parental and administrative support, the initiative could be expanded. However, the Ministry’s stance remains firm against the use of school hours for such activities.