IMPACT-se released a report analyzing Uzbekistan’s textbooks, highlighting a positive portrayal of Judaism and Jewish history. The research indicates that these educational materials promote tolerance and recognize the Holocaust, while denoting Hamas and Hezbollah as radical groups. Leaders from the Ruderman Family Foundation and IMPACT-se commended Uzbekistan’s educational system for its emphasis on mutual respect and countering extremism.
On Thursday, IMPACT-se, an esteemed international research institute based in Israel, published a detailed report examining the representation of Jews, Judaism, Israel, and the Arab-Israeli conflict within Uzbekistan’s educational materials. This report is the second installment in a three-part series that scrutinizes the curricula of Central Asian nations, which also includes studies on Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, in partnership with the Ruderman Family Foundation.
The findings of the study reveal that Uzbek textbooks present a constructive and balanced perspective on Judaism, encompassing Jewish traditions and historical narratives, notably including acknowledgment of the Holocaust and Israel’s economic progress. Furthermore, these educational materials categorize Hamas and Hezbollah as “radical Islamist organizations,” reflecting a clear stance on extremism.
Dr. Zeev Levin, who spearheaded this comprehensive analysis, reviewed a total of 130 textbooks from Uzbekistan’s national curriculum. He noted that the country’s educational framework is designed to foster respect and understanding between various communities. The report emphasizes Uzbekistan’s proactive approach in combating radical Islamism through its educational strategies.
Jay Ruderman, President of the Ruderman Family Foundation, commended the findings for showcasing Uzbekistan’s dedication to promoting tolerance. Similarly, IMPACT-se CEO Marcus Sheff highlighted the country’s educational approach as a notable example of moderation within the region.
The report by IMPACT-se showcases Uzbekistan’s educational materials as positive contributions towards fostering tolerance and understanding among diverse communities. By emphasizing a balanced view of Judaism, acknowledging historical events, and addressing radicalism, Uzbekistan’s textbooks serve as a model for moderation in the region. The collaborative efforts between IMPACT-se and the Ruderman Family Foundation further underline the importance of promoting educational strategies that combat extremism and encourage coexistence.
Original Source: www.clevelandjewishnews.com
