Tajikistan Tries To Keep Control Over Muslim Education

Radio Free Europe today reports on efforts by the government of Tajikistan to keep control over Islamic education in the country. All teachers must be licensed by the state, and the government regularly conducts raids on mosques and private homes where they suspect unlicensed classes are being held or underground madrassahs have been created. Government officials say their actions are aimed at preventing the spread of religious extremism, but they have been widely criticized as violating religious freedom.  Apparently demand for religious classes outstrips the supply of state-approved schools. So the Education Ministry recently introduced a course in Knowledge of Islam into state schools. Religious leaders say these once-a-week classes are not enough. Many parents send their children to unofficial classes in homes of local mullahs and local mosques because they are convenient and free.The country's 20 official madrassahs charge tuition and offer a range of secular courses as well as religious ones.