Implementation of the Presidential Initiative must not be delayed

The issue of providing free lunches to schoolchildren in the Republic of Karakalpakstan was the subject of critical discussion at a video conference chaired by Chief of Presidential Administration Sardor Umurzakov on November 1.

On the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, free lunches have been introduced in Khorezm and the Republic of Karakalpakstan since 2022 for pupils of primary grades 1-4. As free catering had been introduced in 94 per cent of schools in Khorezm region in the outgoing academic year, while in Karakalpakstan the tendering process was ongoing, it was reported that this practice had not yet been fully launched.

Amanbay Orinbaev, Chairman of the Jokargy Kenes of the Republic of Karakalpakstan and Kakhramon Sariev, Chairman of the Council of Ministers of Karakalpakstan reported on the issue. Chairman Jokargy Kenes reported that some of the tenders have been completed, and since 19 September free lunches have been provided in some schools. Also in October, the bidding process continues, and the final bidding is scheduled to take place in the near future.

Sardor Umurzakov noted that it is about feeding of primary school pupils, that this issue cannot be completely overlooked, he criticized that all relevant funds are allocated from the state budget and that there are no problems with finances, but nevertheless, the matter has not been brought to its logical conclusion yet.

It was announced that an inspection would be carried out in Karakalpakstan with representatives of the Ministry of Public Education, the Prosecutor General's Office and the Court of Accounts regarding the distribution of free lunches to pupils.