Turkmenistan, Ashgabat, October 24 /Trend H. Hasanov/
President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdymuhamedov invited the Government to consider extending the period of study in secondary schools to 12 years and the introduction of private education, local media reported on Wednesday.
"We have to take into account the world experience which shows a steady increase in the volume of knowledge and rate of its distribution. This, in turn requires more time for learning. International experience shows that at least 11 -12 years is required to master knowledge taught in the public schools," the president said in a statement.
Berdymuhamedov noted that it is necessary to address issues relating to the creation of schools with subjects in foreign languages and paid educational institutions.
However it is emphasised that the basis of the educational system of Turkmenistan will be free public educational institutions.
Berdymuhamedov noted that it is necessary to develop and adopt regulations governing the operation of paid educational institutions in which the quality of education will be controlled by the Ministry of Education.
"The introduction of paid education will give older people working in different sectors of the economy, opportunities for education, professional development and growth," Berdymuhamedov added.
This training can be done at the expense of employers and employees own funds, as well as loans received from banking institutions.
The president said the credit facilities granted by banks for the purpose "should be available."
The introduction of paid education is expected during the 2013-2014 school year.