The introduction of police officers in private educational institutions in Uzbekistan is being considered to prevent crimes, combat bullying, drug use, and protect minors. A draft resolution proposing this measure has been published for public discussion, which will last until November 3rd.
According to the document, these positions will be funded by the educational institutions themselves. Universities will be able to appoint senior preventive inspectors and women's affairs inspectors, while private schools and colleges will receive psychological inspectors specializing in juvenile cases.
The appointment of these officers will be based on agreements between the educational institutions and local departments of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. After signing such an agreement, the Minister of Internal Affairs will issue a corresponding order, and the local bodies will be obliged to fill the vacant position within one month.
The duties of the inspectors include preventing violence and offenses, combating bullying, drug addiction, and the spread of extremist ideas. They will interact with the management of educational institutions, teachers, psychologists, parents, and mahalla representatives.
Special attention will be paid to students who regularly miss classes, exhibit aggressive behavior, or are susceptible to destructive ideas. Schools plan to conduct preventive events named 'Davomat', 'Oquvchi', 'Osmir', and 'Tungi tekshiruv' to monitor attendance, identify minors outside of educational activities, and detect teenagers visiting nightlife venues without adult supervision.
The draft also provides for joint work between inspectors and school psychologists. They will be able to organize training sessions and preventive talks, help resolve conflicts between students, and identify children experiencing stress or showing signs of depression. These measures aim to prevent suicides; if officers discover cases of violence, they are obligated to report it immediately and take steps to protect the child.
Higher educational institutions plan to expand legal literacy programs for students, alongside developing sports sections, clubs, and cultural events. Furthermore, every year from September 10th to October 10th, a 'Student Safety' month will be held. During this period, attendance will be checked, access of unauthorized persons to academic buildings and dormitories will be controlled, and students needing additional support will be identified.
Other proposed measures include 'Tig' and 'Oriat' campaigns aimed at enhancing safety in universities, preventing the smuggling of prohibited items and substances onto campuses, and eliminating offenses related to threats to life and health. It is important to note that the proposed provisions are not yet final, and the definitive rules will be determined after the completion of the public discussion of the draft resolution.