DUSHANBE, September 19, Asia-plus - President Emomali Rahmonov met with senior representatives from president’s executive office, government and a number of ministries and organizations on September 18, the presidential press service reported.

The meeting focused on preparations for the winter, progress of the cotton harvest as well as provision of schools with computers.  Rahmonov called for a increase in the level of professionalism at institutions of higher education.

A source in the president’s office said that 2,802 computers and 478 printers had been provided to open computer classes at 500 schools across the republic.  ”The president has ordered them distributed to schools within the next few days,” said the source.  “Additionally, 120 computers will be handed over to Tajikistan’s Teachers’ Training University in Dushanbe.” 

Rahmonov set specific goals for higher educational and for providing electricity and natural gas during the holy Muslim month of Ramadan and in the autumn and winter season of 2006-07. The head of state also urged a speed up in cotton-picking campaign and timely payment of wages to the cotton farmers.

The meeting also considered agreements signed during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) prime ministers’ session in Dushanbe.