In line with the task outlined in the “Strategy for International Cooperation of Turkmen Youth for 2023-2030” to explore the possibility of opening branches of prestigious foreign universities, including in Turkmenistan, a delegation from Turkmenistan led by Deputy Minister of Education Azat Atayev is currently on a working visit to the United States to establish long-term cooperation with reputable American universities.
This visit is part of efforts to foster collaboration between Turkmenistan’s higher educational institutions, including the Turkmen State Institute of Architecture and Construction, and Kent State University. It aims to promote scientific and educational development through global understanding.
Kent State University, the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan, and several Turkmen universities signed an agreement to initiate educational cooperation. This initiative is part of Kent State University’s ongoing commitment to using education as a tool to promote global understanding and peace.
The signing ceremony was attended by Meret Orazov, Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to the U.S.; Azat Atayev, Turkmenistan’s Deputy Minister of Education; representatives from the International University for the Humanities and Development, the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, and the Turkmen State Institute of Architecture and Construction; Todd Diacon, President of Kent State University; Marcelo Fantoni, Ph.D., Vice President for Global Education at Kent State; and Aýýa Hudaybergenova, Program Manager for Global Education and Director of the Eurasian Strategy at Kent State University.
Other participants included Shöhrat Pirmuhammedow, First Secretary and Consul of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the U.S.; Nurmuhammet Şihlyýew, Vice-Rector for Scientific Affairs of the International University for the Humanities and Development; and Begenç Mätliýew, Vice-Rector for Scientific Affairs of the Institute of International Relations of Turkmenistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Founded in 1910 as a teacher training school, Kent State University has grown into a leading institution in Ohio, contributing to the region’s economic, cultural, and workforce development. Known for its innovative use of education to meet community and societal needs, Kent State University has become a respected name in continuing education and other unique programs. Currently, six Turkmen students are studying at Kent State University.
Kent State aims to expand cooperation with Turkmenistan to enhance access to higher education for Turkmen students and promote the country’s active engagement in the global education community by leveraging its resources and expertise.
Following the signing ceremony, Kent State University and the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the U.S. held a cultural event dedicated to the great Eastern philosopher and classical poet Magtymguly Pyragy, celebrating Turkmen language, literature, and national identity. Ambassador Orazov congratulated the participants and emphasized the significance of long-term cooperation aimed at advancing Turkmenistan’s national education system.
The participants expressed deep gratitude to Turkmenistan’s National Leader, Hero Arkadag, and esteemed President Arkadagly Gahryman Serdar for their efforts in promoting international accreditation and establishing world-class educational institutions in Turkmenistan. They wished long life and continued success to Hero Arkadag and Arkadagly Gahryman Serdar in their endeavors.
Amanmyrat Arazov
Head of the Science Department
Turkmen State Institute of Architecture and Construction
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