Education
Turkmenistan and the United Kingdom strengthen cooperation in education
26.02.2026As part of a consistent state policy led by President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, Turkmenistan and the United Kingdom are taking their cooperation in the field of education to a new practical level. The signing of four cooperation documents was a logical outcome of efforts to expand international partnerships and introduce advanced educational practices, according to the press service of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. • Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the field of skills certification between the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan and ‘Pearson’. The aim is to introduce internationally recognised qualifications, digital assessment and pilot mechanisms for measuring learning outcomes to improve educational programmes and recognise the competences of graduates at the international level. • Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the field of educational assessment between the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan and ‘AQA Global Assessment Services Ltd.’ The document aims to improve the quality of assessment in schools and vocational education, develop the competencies of specialists, improve test materials and ensure the transparency and comparability of results. • Memorandum of Understanding between the National Institute of Education of Turkmenistan and the Norwich Institute for Language Education (NILE). The cooperation is focused on improving the qualifications of teachers, developing teaching methods, creating professional communities and introducing models of continuous professional development and mentoring. • Memorandum of Understanding between the Dovletmammet Azadi Turkmen National Institute of World Languages and Nottingham Trent University. The document focuses on joint educational initiatives, applied training programmes, academic exchanges and strengthening the practice-oriented component of higher education. After the signing, Deputy Minister of Education of Turkmenistan Azat Atayev held negotiations with representatives of ‘Pearson’, ‘AQA Global Assessment Services Ltd’, Norwich Institute for Language Education and Nottingham Trent University. The plans include the creation of joint working groups, the development of technical tasks and roadmaps with pilot projects, indicators and responsible parties. The signed memoranda confirm the parties' readiness to cooperate through specific projects aimed at improving the quality of education and developing human capital in Turkmenistan.
Austrian professor held a master class at a Turkmen university
24.02.2026A master class was held at the Oguz Han University of Engineering and Technology in Turkmenistan by Professor David Pommerenke from the Institute of Electronics at Graz University of Technology in Austria. The event was attended by young teachers and students studying in the fields of ‘Physics of Modern Technologies’, ‘Electronics and Nanoelectronics’ and ‘Biomedical Electronics’. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. During the class, the professor spoke in detail about methods for measuring and converting electrical signals, measuring radio signal power in real time, polarisation, and directional diagrams. Particular attention was paid to combining theoretical lectures with practical work, which allowed participants to gain skills in working with modern devices and technologies. At the end of the master class, there was an exchange of views: students and teachers asked the professor questions and expressed their gratitude for his valuable recommendations and practical advice. The event was organised within the framework of the Memorandum of Understanding between Oguz Han University of Engineering and Technology and Graz University of Technology. The cooperation covers joint research and educational projects, scientific and practical conferences, working meetings, internships and study visits. Such interaction contributes to the improvement of the national science and education system, the introduction of advanced international experience and the training of highly qualified specialists in the field of engineering and technology.
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan proposed a platform for cooperation with a Belgian university
22.02.2026Sapar Palvanov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Belgium, met with Bart Hendrickx, Head of Academic Diplomacy at the KU Leuven. This was reported by the press service of the Turkmen diplomatic mission. They discussed the university's international and research profile, its participation in European programmes, including ‘Horizon Europe’, as well as opportunities for cooperation with universities in Central Asia. The Ambassador of Turkmenistan spoke about the region's role in the international agenda, Turkmenistan's historical and cultural heritage, and the country's initiatives to strengthen peace and trust. The opening of the International University of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs was noted as an example of a practice-oriented approach. The Turkmen side proposed creating a sustainable platform for cooperation with the University of Leuven, including possible formal agreements. Hendrickx supported the idea and stressed the importance of defining common areas of cooperation for a structured assessment of opportunities for joint work. The parties also positively noted the Ambassador's lecture on Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality, delivered to university students, which contributed to the strengthening of humanitarian ties and academic dialogue.
An English-language school aimed at admission to Harvard will open in Turkmenistan
22.02.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov announced the opening of a new English-language school in the city of Arkadag. The school will teach according to modern standards with the aim of preparing graduates for admission to leading US universities, including Harvard, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Columbia University, according to the state news agency TDH. Hero Arkadag announced the above information in an interview with ‘Al Arabiya’ TV channel. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov noted that culture, science, education and sports remain promising areas of Turkmen-American cooperation. The National Leader of the Turkmen people recalled the US State Department's Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) programme, which has been operating in Turkmenistan since 2001, as well as the fact that English is taught in all schools and four of the country's universities operate entirely in English. The Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty emphasised active cultural interaction with the United States, including cooperation with the Metropolitan Museum in New York, interest in American literature, music and cinema, concerts and archaeological expeditions. Hero Arkadag expressed his readiness to expand bilateral cooperation and represent Turkmen culture in the United States in a broader format.
Young people from Turkmenistan will go to study at universities in Romania
22.02.2026On 20 February, Deputy Prime Minister B. Mammedov presented a report on sending young citizens of Turkmenistan to study at higher education institutions in Romania in the 2026–2027 academic year during a regular meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasised the advisability of training specialists in priority areas: information technology, healthcare and medical sciences, education and pedagogy, agriculture, engineering, technology and technical sciences, as well as mathematics and natural sciences. The relevant proposal was submitted for consideration to the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov. Approving the proposal, the Head of State gave the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers the relevant instructions on organising the dispatch of young people for training.
Turkmen students and teachers strengthen their Persian language skills
21.02.2026Teachers and students from Turkmen universities are taking advanced courses in Persian language and literature organised by the Cultural Centre of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Turkmenistan. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The training began on 16 February at the Magtymguly Turkmen State University and will last for 10 days. Classes are taught by experienced teachers and professors of Persian language and literature from the Saadi Foundation (Iran). Representatives of the Magtymguly Turkmen State University, the Dovletmammet Azadi Turkmen National Institute of World Languages, the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, the Seyitnazar Seydi Turkmen State Pedagogical Institute and the State Energy Institute of Turkmenistan are participating in the courses. The course programme is aimed at introducing modern teaching methods, studying the specifics of teaching Persian as a foreign language, exchanging pedagogical experience, improving the quality of language education, expanding the professional competencies of teachers, and improving the linguistic knowledge and communication skills of students.
Turkmen scientists explore opportunities offered by the EU's ‘Horizon Europe’ programme
20.02.2026The International University for the Humanities and Development in Ashgabat hosted an information and communication session dedicated to ‘Horizon Europe’ – the European Union’s largest research programme. The event brought together leading scientists, young researchers and relevant specialists to discuss ways of integrating Turkmen science into the global innovation space, reports IIC. With the participation of international experts and representatives of the EU diplomatic corps, the concept of the programme as a key instrument for financing scientific projects was presented. Particular attention was paid to the work plans for 2026-2027, which include priority areas: digital transformation, climate change and technological modernisation. Participants were given a detailed explanation of the application process, grant criteria and opportunities for joining international research consortia. The practical part of the session focused on developing project management skills and finding foreign partners. Experts emphasised that scientists from Central Asia have every right to participate in ‘Horizon Europe’ competitions, which opens up prospects for academic mobility and the introduction of best practices into the national economy. This is in line with Turkmenistan's strategic objectives of digitalisation and the introduction of high-tech solutions in all areas of life. The forum continues the state policy of modernising the scientific and educational sphere and strengthening multilateral international partnerships. Such initiatives contribute to the growth of the country's intellectual potential, give Turkmen researchers the opportunity to actively participate in solving global problems and enhance Turkmenistan's scientific authority on the world stage.
Young talents from Turkmenistan successfully performed at the ‘iWISE Global Final’ in Dubai
18.02.2026Turkmen schoolchildren won a convincing victory at the ‘iWISE Global Final 2026’ International Competition, which took place from 14 to 16 February in Dubai (UAE). This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. More than 400 participants from different countries took part in the competition, and the teams from Turkmenistan won 12 medals: 2 gold, 6 silver and 4 bronze. The gold medals went to Selim Begmyradov (Secondary School No. 7, Ashgabat) and Abdyljelil Patyshagulyev (Secondary School No. 97, Ashgabat). They became the best team in the competition in the ‘Line Follower’ category and received a special prize. Silver medals were won by Abdullah Annayev, Muhammetkasym Annayev, Saranur Annayeva, Polat Saparov, Bilalkerem Berdiyev and Aysenem Akmyradova; bronze medals went to Ebubekir Berdiyev, Muhammedulemin Annayev, Rahman Garrygulov and Gurbanmuhammet Magtymgulyev. The special jury prize went to Muhammedulemin Annayev (Secondary School No. 6, Ashgabat). The participants were trained by teachers Myrat Sahetgulyev and Halil Kovusov from the Specialised Educational Complex No. 1 in Arkadag and the ‘Kämil Bilim’ Training Centre.
Turkmen schoolchildren win trip to robotics tournament in China
18.02.2026The regional stage of the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) robotics championship in Astana from 10 to 13 February 2026 ended in success for the Turkmen team ‘Oguzrobot’. This was reported by the news website Asmannews. Schoolchildren from Ashgabat demonstrated a high level of preparation and received a special quota to participate in an international tournament in China. About 80 teams from different countries, including Hong Kong, Estonia, Vietnam, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, took part in the competition. ‘Oguzrobot’ won in the early stages and successfully passed the qualifying round, winning two of the four most difficult games. The jury highly praised the robot's design and programming, noting the team's innovative solutions. The teams consisted of students from secondary schools No. 97 and No. 86 in Ashgabat, who were trained at the ‘Kämil bilim’ training centre. The success of ‘Oguzrobot’, which received the ‘International Success’ award last year, confirms the growth in the quality of STEM education in Turkmenistan.
The Minister of Education of Turkmenistan held a meeting with a representative of UNICEF
18.02.2026On 17 February, Minister of Education of Turkmenistan Jumamyrat Gurbangeldiyev held a meeting with Jalpa Ratna, Representative of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) in Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed priorities for cooperation for 2026-2030, including early childhood development, inclusive education, climate resilience of the education system and disaster risk reduction, and took stock of joint projects already implemented. Particular attention was paid to the preparation of the National Strategy for Early Childhood Development, pilot school readiness programmes, the ‘Green School’ initiative and the expansion of inclusive education. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to continue and strengthen cooperation in the interests of protecting the rights of every child.
Turkmenistan's HEIs participate in international circular economy project
16.02.2026The international ‘CirculEC’ project, supported by the EU’s ‘Erasmus+’ programme, aims to integrate the principles of circular economy and sustainable development into university programmes in Europe and Central Asia. Fifteen universities and scientific organisations from seven countries, including Turkmenistan, are participating in the project, according to the news website Asmannews. From Turkmenistan, the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan, the Turkmen State Institute of Economics and Management, and the Turkmen State Institute of Finance are involved in the project. The main focus is on incorporating the principles of sustainable development into basic curricula to develop students' practical skills in resource management, ecology, and modern business models. The project is coordinated by the D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University, and European partners included universities in Spain, Italy and Germany. The cooperation aims to adapt Central Asian educational programmes to international standards, taking into account the needs of the labour market. The project will be implemented in 2023–2026 and provides for the development of new training modules, the improvement of teachers' qualifications and the launch of pilot courses. ‘CirculEC’ is focused on training specialists for sustainable development and environmental entrepreneurship.
Schoolchildren from Turkmenistan will represent the country at the iWISE finals in Dubai
11.02.2026Twelve schoolchildren from Turkmenistan will take part in the Global Final of the International World Innovative Student Expo (iWISE), which will be held in Dubai from 14 to 16 February. The event is organised by the London-based company iWISE. This was reported by IIC. The annual forum brings together participants from different countries and provides them with an opportunity to present their developments in the fields of robotics, STEAM disciplines, programming and art. The Turkmen team earned the right to compete on the international stage following the results of the Virtual Final remote stage, which took place in November 2025. During the selection process, the students won medals in robotics competitions, including Robot Maze, Line Follower and Mini Sumo. The team consists of students from the robotics club of the 1st Specialised Educational Complex in Arkadag, as well as students from the Kämil bilim training centre in the capital. Turkmenistan will be represented by Rahman Garrygulov, Ebubekir Berdiyev, Aysenem Akmyradova, Saranur Annayeva, Muhammetkasym Annayev, Bilalkerim Berdiyev, Polat Saparov, Abdullah Annayev, Abdyljelil Patyshagulyev, Selim Begmyradov, Gurbanmuhammet Magtymgulyev and Muhammedulemin Annayev. The team is being trained by Myrat Sahetguliyev, a teacher at the Arkadag specialised complex, and Halil Kovusov, a teacher at Ashgabat Specialised Secondary School No. 97. The participation of Turkmen schoolchildren in the iWISE international final reflects the growing interest of young people in engineering and technology and the increasing level of training in the field of innovation.
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