“Curricula are updated periodically”
At a recent briefing organized by the Ministry of Education, officials once again raised the issue of introducing 12-year education. They believe that criticism from parents is premature, as the new standards and programs are just beginning to be implemented.
Olga Bryzgalova, a representative of the Ministry of Education, noted: “It is incorrect to assert that the new standards for mathematics and natural sciences for grades 1, 2, 5, and 7 are more difficult than the previous ones. They have simply been revised and structured according to a new principle.”
According to Bryzgalova, certain difficulties have arisen, mainly for teachers who had to master the new teaching methodology during the summer break.
Abakir Mamytov, Doctor of Pedagogical Sciences and Chief Researcher at the Laboratory of Technology, Art, and Health Culture of the Kyrgyz Academy of Education, reported that the program has been significantly revised and simplified with an emphasis on practical application.
He added: “The necessity to transition to a 12-year education system is dictated by scientific research showing that modern children develop faster than 20-30 years ago in various aspects—physiological, psychological, and intellectual. Starting the educational process at the age of six addresses two tasks: it ensures early learning and relieves the preschool system. In Kyrgyz schools, many subjects were traditionally taught, but this was not always effective. We set the task of reducing the annual academic load, which could reach 1000 hours or more, while in international practice it is 800-850 hours. The new curricula focus on mathematics, natural sciences, English language, and digital technologies,” emphasized Mamytov.
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