Turkmenistan Showcases Education Reforms at UNESCO, Strengthens International Partnerships
Paris, The Gulf Observer: The Minister of Education of Turkmenistan, Jumamyrat Gurbangeldiýew, participated in high-level events at the headquarters of UNESCO in Paris on March 25, 2026, highlighting the country’s ongoing education reforms and expanding international cooperation.
The visit coincided with the presentation of the Global Education Monitoring Report (GEM Report 2026), where the minister addressed the High-Level Ministerial Dialogue. He underscored that early childhood education is a strategic priority for Turkmenistan, serving as a foundation for human capital development and sustainable growth.
Gurbangeldiýew emphasized the integration of digital technologies, the nurturing of children’s creative and cognitive abilities, and the continuous professional development of teachers as key pillars of the national education policy.
He also highlighted joint initiatives with UNICEF, including a pilot school readiness programme set to launch in the 2026–2027 academic year, which will introduce half-day preparatory groups for five-year-old children. The programme focuses on inclusive education, early identification of developmental needs, and stronger collaboration between schools, families and government institutions.
On the sidelines of the forum, the minister held a meeting with Khaled El-Enany, where both sides discussed expanding cooperation, including Turkmenistan’s participation in the UNITWIN programme, academic exchanges and strengthening institutional frameworks in education.
The UNESCO chief commended Turkmenistan’s systematic and forward-looking reforms, noting the country’s active engagement in global educational dialogue and its contributions toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4).
Further discussions were held with Stefania Giannini, focusing on digitalisation of education, lifelong learning and responsible use of emerging technologies. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening collaboration in these areas.
Special attention was given to cooperation with UNESCO structures, including the expansion of UNESCO Chairs, Associated Schools and engagement with the UNESCO Institute for Information Technologies in Education. Turkmenistan’s participation in the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities, joined by Ashgabat in 2025, was also highlighted.
Giannini praised Turkmenistan’s comprehensive reforms, particularly in modernising education systems, advancing inclusive education and strengthening international partnerships, while acknowledging the leadership’s strategic vision in building a competitive education sector.
The Turkmen minister also met with Ezozkhon Karimova to discuss bilateral cooperation. The talks focused on preschool and secondary education development, teacher training exchanges, modern teaching methodologies and joint participation in international academic competitions.
Both sides expressed interest in expanding institutional partnerships and implementing joint educational programmes, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening collaboration in education, science and innovation.
