In a bid to reduce youth crime rates, keep girls in schools, and prepare more individuals for labor migration, Tajikistan is transitioning from a 9-year mandatory education system to an 11-year one. The amendments to the Education Law were discussed in a parliament session on February 20th.
According to the changes, education in 10th and 11th grades (general secondary education) has become compulsory. Students who do not wish to continue their studies must enroll in colleges or vocational schools. This move aims to enhance the education system's capabilities.
The new requirements will not apply to citizens who had already completed their general secondary education before the law came into effect. The education system in Tajikistan includes primary school (1-4 grades), secondary education (5-year duration), and full secondary education (10-11 years of study).
Moreover, students in 10th and 11th grades will no longer be expelled for misbehavior, as stated by parliament deputy Nasiba Sodiqi. Specialists highlight that the amendments aim to achieve three main objectives.
Firstly, by further engaging youth in the educational process, authorities aim to shield them from negative street influences and reduce crime rates. Secondly, mandatory education continuation in schools or vocational schools, especially for girls, will address gender inequality issues.
After the 9th grade, girls in Tajikistan are more likely to drop out of school compared to boys. Therefore, initiatives like compulsory education aim to rectify this situation. Lastly, the reforms target preparing individuals for labor migration by providing them with professional skills and knowledge.
With a significant number of Tajik labor migrants working in Russia, the new regulations align with the country's migration regulation strategy until 2040. The focus will be on professional training for migrants within Tajikistan and organizing their migration for employment purposes.
In conclusion, the educational reforms in Tajikistan are seen as a positive step towards addressing various social issues and preparing a skilled workforce for the future. The government's commitment to youth education and development reflects a broader global trend in education policies.
