The Ministry of Preschool and School Education in Uzbekistan held a press conference addressing the contentious issues surrounding teacher certification. Officials admitted to errors and announced that additional points have been awarded to some teachers following disputes over test questions.

Education expert Komil Jalilov highlighted persistent problems in the certification system. He recalled last year's major conflicts, where teachers took legal action against the ministry. “Eventually, the ministry was forced to admit a historic mistake,” Jalilov said, noting that this year similar complaints about test quality have emerged.

Jalilov criticized the system for focusing on theoretical knowledge rather than practical teaching skills. He pointed to vague concepts like “book level” appearing in tests for chemistry and native language teachers, calling for a shift toward evaluating pedagogical mastery.

Deputy Minister Azizbek Turdiyev acknowledged the criticism, stating that the ministry has drawn conclusions and involved experts like Jalilov in preparing test materials. He claimed that expert suggestions are being considered to improve the process.

According to the ministry, additional points were given to teachers affected by disputed questions. For instance, over 300 history teachers received immediate points, while others were granted two extra points each. As a result, some teachers retained their categories, others upgraded, and 14 even qualified for bonuses.

Currently, certification results are being recalculated. The ministry has notified each teacher about added points and category changes via personal accounts. Officials emphasized the possibility of filing appeals for disputed questions.

However, the question of transitioning to a system that assesses actual teaching skills remained unanswered during the press conference, leaving the issue open for future debate.

Source: www.gazeta.uz