Fraud in the education system: more than 100 teachers handed over money in exchange for certification.

Another high-profile corruption case in Uzbekistan’s education system has been exposed. During a special operation carried out by the State Security Service (SSS) and the Criminal Investigation Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, bribery facts were uncovered in one of the general education schools in Nukus city.

It was revealed that the school’s deputy director had been collecting bribes from teachers, ranging from 1000 to 1500 USD each, in exchange for passing the state certification. He regularly recorded his illegal activities in personal notebooks and on various documents.

One of the teachers at the same school was caught red-handed while receiving 1000 USD from a colleague working in Chimboy district for ensuring they pass the professional certification exam — following the deputy director’s instructions. The operation was thoroughly planned by SSS and the criminal investigators.

"Chain scheme": higher-level officials involved
Pre-investigation results showed that not only school-level staff were involved. The chief methodologist of the Department for Organizing Evaluation of Teachers’ Knowledge and Skills under the Ministry of Preschool and School Education of Karakalpakstan was also involved. He voluntarily surrendered a total of 10,450 USD collected as bribes for certification help.

Moreover, a National Guard officer who allowed teachers to enter exams with mobile phones, failing to ensure proper supervision, was also identified and accused of negligence. The investigation revealed that the bribe money was shared among the involved persons.

Criminal case initiated
Currently, a criminal case has been initiated under Article 210, part 2, paragraph “g” of the Criminal Code — receiving bribes using official position and acting in a group.

Law enforcement authorities are continuing the investigation. The inquiry is ongoing.

Public reaction on social networks
This incident sparked wide public interest. Many users questioned: “Where are the education reforms?”, “If the teacher himself violates the law, what kind of generation will he raise?”

Analysts emphasize that corruption in education is on the rise, which poses a serious threat to the future of students. Without strict control over bribery, all reforms risk becoming futile.