The assessment of knowledge and skills of educators working in children's music, art, and painting schools operating under the Ministry of Culture is planned on a certification basis. This innovation aims to measure their theoretical and practical preparation level according to specific rules.
However, questions have arisen in the public regarding the form in which the process will be implemented, whether salary increases will also apply to this category, and whether a second chance will be given to those who fail the exam.
Rasif Dünyamalıyev, a member of the Public Council under the Ministry of Science and Education, stated in a statement to AzEdu.az regarding the topic that, in general, extracurricular activities should not be organized at the expense of state funds:
“Extracurricular activities organized at the expense of state funds should be structured in accordance with certain strategic priorities. For example, special programs or grant mechanisms could be implemented in this direction to increase interest in folk musical instruments and preserve cultural heritage. Organizing and financing courses for tar, kamancheh, and other national instruments in various regions of the Republic would be an appropriate step.
The currently operating model has been in use for many years. Music schools under the Ministry of Culture operate on a free basis. Parents direct their children to these schools with various motivations. However, the issue of implementing more flexible and results-oriented mechanisms for the continuous development of children's interests and potential may also be on the agenda.
In this regard, the possibility of institutions operating on a self-financing principle or in the form of a public legal entity, as well as the implementation of certain payment mechanisms, can be considered. Within such a model, institutions can make more independent decisions regarding personnel selection and management issues.
The certification of teachers, however, should be evaluated as an integral part of the overall system. Certification will create certain opportunities in terms of stimulating teachers' professional development and improving salary mechanisms. Alongside this, it is also important to comprehensively review structural and management issues for the more effective operation of the system.
Overall, the purpose of any changes should be both to improve the quality of education and to ensure continuous and sustainable development in the field of culture”.
