SAM: Islam is taught in Grozny kindergartens only with parents' consent

At present, introduction of learning of the basics of Islam in kindergarten of Grozny is not extended for pre-school institutions in other cities and regions of Chechnya. This was explained by the Republic's Ministry of Education. According to the Spiritual Administration of Muslims (SAM) of Chechnya, studying by children of the basics of Islam will help protecting them in future from the influence of radical and extremist movements and does not contradict the legislation of the country.

The order to introduce teaching of the basics of Islam in kindergartens starting from November 1 was issued by Islam Kadyrov, Mayor of Grozny. However, officials from the Grozny Mayoralty have clarified that the widespread leaning of the basics of Islam in the city kindergartens had not been introduced yet.

"It would be wrong to say that the children are forced to study Islam. Firstly, this is done only with the consent of their parents, and, secondly, the classes are conducted only three times a week for 20 minutes. Children are just taught the basic issues related to religion to ensure that in future, they will be able to orientate in those issues and not fall for the bad influence of extremist trends in Islam," a representative of the Muftiyat of Chechnya stated.

He has noted that "the introduction of learning of the basics of religion in Grozny pre-school institutions does not contradict the legislation."

"No religious premises are created in kindergartens, and no general prayers are introduced, and so on. We speak only of the fact to ensure that our children know the basics of the religion they profess and nothing more," the representative of the Muftiyat said.

To teach religion in pre-school institutions, 50 female students of the Russian Islamic University named after Kunta-Khadji Kishiev were selected to explain in simple terms the basics of Islam to children.

Some local residents approve the decision to introduce the basics of Islam in kindergartens. Others are convinced that the study of the basics of Islam will result in excessive stress on children.