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By Asia Education Review Team , Monday, 11 March 2024

Japarov Urges Swift Curriculum Overhaul in Kyrgyzstan's Education

  • During a crucial meeting with the Ministry of Education and Science, Akylbek Japarov, the Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers in Kyrgyzstan, stressed the immediate necessity for comprehensive reforms within the nation's education system. Japarov criticized the current structure for its failure to meet basic standards and called for a prompt plan to adapt school curriculums thoroughly. He emphasized the pivotal role of education in Kyrgyzstan's future and declared a need for drastic changes to better nurture the country's human capital, aiming to provide students with resources for self-realization.

    Japarov's vision for the education system focuses on fostering individuality and arming young people with the knowledge and skills essential for significantly improving labour productivity and socio-economic development. This bold statement underscores the urgency of transforming the existing educational framework. His call for reform aligns with global discussions on the imperative to modernize teaching and learning methodologies, similar to initiatives seen in other countries introducing new school curricula in phases. These reforms aim to shift from traditional rote learning to experiential learning and competency-based assessments. However, critics point out potential challenges, such as insufficient teacher training and the consequent impact on education quality.

    The plea for educational reform in Kyrgyzstan is reflective of worldwide conversations on the necessity of updating teaching and learning methods. Parallel initiatives, including the phased introduction of new school curricula in various countries, seek to move away from conventional rote learning toward experiential learning and competency-based assessments. Despite the positive intent behind these reforms, challenges arise, as critics express concerns about the risks associated with rapid implementation, notably insufficient teacher training and potential repercussions on education quality.