OSCE supports trainings on introducing new course on religious cultures in Kyrgyzstan’s secondary schools
More than 70 school teachers and school administrative personnel took part in three training sessions on piloting teaching methods for a new school course “The basics of religious cultures”. The event took place from 17 to 25 August 2017 in the Kyrgyz capital Bishkek and the city of Osh. The school subject is currently being piloted in 56 selected secondary schools in all seven provinces of Kyrgyzstan.
Zakir Chotaev, Deputy Chair of the State Committee on Religious Affairs under the President of the Kyrgyz Republic (SCRA), underlined that the school course is intended for young people aged 14 to 15. He also added that knowledge about different religions and beliefs will promote the understanding of cultural diversity, foster tolerance and respect for everyone’s right to freedom of religion or belief.
The pilot project on the development of the course was launched last year by the Oslo Center for Peace and Human Rights in 20 pilot schools. Subsequently, in 2017, the Special Working Group under the Ministry of Education and Science (MoES) prepared a student textbook and a teaching manual.
Kayrylbu Kuykeeva, a history teacher and co-trainer, emphasized that the school course will also enable young people to think critically.
The training sessions were delivered by the SCRA, MoES and several renowned experts with the support of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek.