Ashgabat Joins UNESCO’s Global Network of Learning Cities
Ashgabat, The Gulf Observer: The Turkmen capital has officially joined UNESCO’s Global Network of Learning Cities after receiving its membership certificate during a handover ceremony held at the city administration, Turkmen official media reported on Sunday.
Ashgabat’s accession, formalized on December 4, 2025, follows the city’s demonstrated achievements in advancing science, education, and lifelong learning initiatives. UNESCO noted that the city’s admission reflects international recognition of its efforts to foster an inclusive learning environment and ensure lifelong educational opportunities for residents of all ages.
According to UNESCO, Ashgabat’s membership highlights its commitment to promoting the right to education at the local level and strengthening systems that support continuous learning across various sectors.
In 2025, Ashgabat was one of 11 capitals welcomed into the global network, alongside Ankara, Lisbon, Cairo, Riyadh, Hanoi, and Buenos Aires.
Launched in 2013, UNESCO’s Global Network of Learning Cities has grown to include 425 cities from 91 countries, encompassing nearly 500 million people engaged in lifelong learning frameworks aimed at social development, sustainability, and innovation.
