Teachers “left on the street”. Is this respect for educators?

Teachers across Uzbekistan are undergoing qualification certification exams, including in Tashkent, where exams commenced on October 31. The scene outside the examination center in Tashkent’s Almazor district raised questions about the treatment of teachers, as some were left waiting on the street, sitting on curbs or cement. The teachers, who are responsible for educating future generations, faced less-than-ideal conditions while awaiting their exams. QALAMPIR.UZ engaged teachers to discuss the challenges they encounter and whether these arrangements truly reflect society’s respect for educators.

"We’re here for certification exams, and we hope for good results. In the past, we could upgrade our qualifications every five years. Now, it’s possible every year, sometimes even twice, if necessary," one primary school teacher shared.

Teachers continue preparing for exams alongside their work and note that the exams sometimes include questions irrelevant to daily teaching or formulated ambiguously, making it difficult for teachers.

"Elementary teachers are asked questions from mixed subjects, including high school materials, which we’re not used to. It’s overwhelming, especially when foreign language teachers, for instance, only answer questions on their subject," another teacher explained.

"Some questions have errors, and when I point it out, they just tell me to submit a comment. Let them ensure the questions are correct before testing us," said a frustrated teacher. 

Some teachers criticized the quality of the test questions, finding mistakes and inconsistencies that led to confusion.

Others, however, found the exams fair, saying they are manageable for teachers familiar with the material.

"These are simple questions that are necessary for today’s teaching standards," said a teacher who found the exams less challenging.

Beyond exams, teachers face various challenges in their everyday roles, such as managing limited resources like textbooks, which parents also find confusing. Additionally, some teachers have family members accompanying them to exams, and managing childcare while they wait.

"I brought my wife for the exam today, so I'm taking care of our child," said one father.

Though seating was reportedly available inside the center, many teachers opted for fresh air outside due to overcrowded indoor spaces.

"There’s a space in the basement, but it was suffocating with so many people. We’re sitting outside because there aren’t enough seats," said a young teacher.

Many teachers expressed appreciation for the certification opportunities but hoped that better conditions would soon follow.

"We are grateful for these chances, and we hope for gradual improvements," one teacher said optimistically.