Minister urges teachers to treat children with respect

Uzbekistan’s Minister of Preschool and School Education, E’zoza Karimova, has called on educators to treat children with respect. She made the statement today, April 11, in an address published on her Telegram channel.

According to the statement, every employee working in educational institutions today bears a high level of responsibility. The professional conduct of teachers and their attitude toward children directly influence not only students’ learning, but also their development as well-rounded individuals, their self-confidence and their outlook on life.

“In this regard, it should be noted that respecting children’s rights and legitimate interests, and carefully safeguarding their psychological well-being, must become a core professional principle for all education system employees. It is essential to prevent any inappropriate behavior, negligence or indifference, strictly adhere to pedagogical ethics, and demonstrate a high level of professional culture,” the minister said.

She also emphasized that she was speaking not only as a sector leader, but also as a mother and grandmother.

“Every child is a unique world deserving of care and attention, with a sensitive heart and pure trust. They look to us with great hope and confidence and understand life through our behavior. The way we treat our children shapes the kind of people they will become in the future. Therefore, we must deeply realize what kind of mark each of our words and actions leaves on a child’s heart,” she said.

Based on this, Karimova set strict requirements for educators.

“I firmly demand that educational institutions ensure a healthy, positive and humane environment, reliably protect the rights and interests of children, and always treat them with respect and dignity. In every situation, it is mandatory to fully comply with current legislation, internal regulations and professional ethics. Indifference in this matter will not be tolerated. Every employee must clearly understand their personal responsibility for the results of their work,” she said.

The minister also noted that, as a leader, she expects educators to demonstrate high responsibility, constant vigilance and dedication.

It is worth noting that the minister’s address comes amid recent cases of harsh treatment of children in kindergartens. In particular, on April 8, an incident in Ohangaron drew public attention after a preschool employee was found to have used physical force against a child and insulted them with inappropriate language. The employee was later dismissed and issued a video apology.

On the same day, a video circulated on social media showing a teacher at a private preschool in Navoi treating children harshly and physically abusing them. It was later reported that a criminal case had been opened against the educator under Article 110 (torture), Part 2 of the Criminal Code, and that the suspect had been detained in accordance with procedural regulations.