Uzbekistani citizens warned over religious education abroad

Cases of citizens being invited to go abroad for religious education by certain individuals have been increasing on social media in recent times. The Committee for Religious Affairs has issued a warning regarding advertisements related to this issue.

It was noted that such advertisements and calls have been promoting studies in religious institutions in countries including Egypt, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and the Russian Federation.

Although these announcements present the educational institutions as legal or official, in reality, they are not recognized by the relevant authorities of the Republic of Uzbekistan. They are considered unauthorized or unlicensed and are operating illegally in those countries. In this context, the phrase “official religious education” is often used as a means to attract more applicants.

According to the committee, such calls may contain elements of religious extremism and fanaticism, misleading young people and negatively affecting their worldview. Therefore, parents are urged to pay close attention to whom their children are communicating with, what information they are reading on the internet, and which offers they are responding to.

“Official religious education is provided exclusively by educational institutions within the system of the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan. We strongly advise individuals not to fall under the influence of various promoters and to meet their need for religious knowledge through the opportunities offered by these institutions,” the statement said.

It was also emphasized that diplomas from foreign religious universities are not recognized in Uzbekistan, which may create obstacles when seeking employment.

“Dear parents! Do not ignore the future of your children. Educating them in safe institutions within Uzbekistan and in a morally healthy environment is the most proper and reliable way to protect them,” the statement added.

Currently, four higher and ten secondary specialized Islamic educational institutions are operating under the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan. Furthermore, since 2018, about 77,000 citizens have studied in 28 “Qur'an and Tajwid” courses across the country. Qur'an Tajwid lessons for all age groups have also been made available on the Muslim Board’s online platform, Muslim.TV.

Earlier, the Migration Agency warned Uzbekistani citizens not to become involved in armed conflicts abroad.