The Dushanbe Education Department has once again issued a warning about the ban on collecting money for repairs in educational institutions.

Following a publication by Asia-Plus on this topic, the Department released a statement emphasizing that all monetary collections for the maintenance and repair of educational institutions — including preschools and secondary schools — are strictly prohibited.  The ban is intended to prevent corruption and illegal fundraising practices.

An official within the Department notes that if school staff demand money, citizens can file complaints through the Dushanbe Education Department hotline at +992 (37) 221 3092, via WhatsApp at +992 002204040, or by email at [email protected].

Recently, parents at some schools across the country reported being asked to pay between 50 and 150 somonis for school repairs.

The Ministry of Education and Science of Tajikistan responded by reiterating that such collections are illegal and encouraged the public: “Report it — we will take action.”

Criticism of corruption in the education sector

In many cases, parents remain silent about illegal fundraising out of fear that their children could be expelled from school.

Previously, Amir Jalolididn, an official at the Ministry of Education, speaking on the Asia-Plus talk show Rosti Gap, acknowledged the ongoing issue of money being collected in schools.  A study conducted by the Center for Strategic Studies also found that schools often collect funds not only for classroom repairs but also for educational materials, teacher gifts, and various events.

President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, in his speech on September 1, 2024, once again criticized the illegal collection of money from students, including for teacher gifts. He demanded that the leadership of the Ministry of Education and its regional institutions put an end to such practices.