Four students from two of Turkmenistan’s leading universities were selected to take part in the highly competitive academic program ‘Studies of U.S. Institutions’ (SUSI). The program, aimed at student leaders, offers a rigorous five-week academic experience in the United States between June 21 and July 26.
Through a competitive selection process, two students of the Engineering and Technology University of Turkmenistan named after Oguz Khan—Gurbangul Sapargeldieva (Faculty of Biotechnology and Ecology) and Chynar Garlyev (Faculty of Cyberphysical Systems)—gained an opportunity to join the program. Two students from the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan—Yupar Egirjaeva (Faculty of International Economic Relations) and Akgozel Rasulova (Faculty of International Relations)—were selected as well.
The SUSI program aims to strengthen the participants understanding of U.S. history, culture, and society and build leadership and diplomatic abilities. The study includes interactive classrooms, discussions, lectures, seminars, and workshops. Participants also go on orientation travels across different regions of the United States, visiting key sites and institutions.
The academic program is centered around three general topics:
History and Future of Work in a Changing World – The module explores the history of the U.S. labor movement, how technological change has impacted the job market, and how globalization has affected economies. Students take field trips to U.S. schools and engage with local entrepreneurs to gain practical exposure.
Curriculum and Development Training – Participants enhance their skills in developing educational programs and training that are responsive to the evolving nature of work. Under the guidance of the experts from the Foundation for International Understanding through Students (FIUTS) and other speakers, they learn best practices in curriculum and pedagogy development.
Leadership Identity and Development – This module is concerned with activities for developing leadership, creating cross-cultural awareness, and challenging the participants to define their leadership styles.
Among the best aspects of the SUSI program is global networking and cultural diversity. Participants get to mix and converse with students from other nations throughout the program, an aspect that encourages intercultural communication and comprehension. They also socialize and engage academically with American university students, forming long-lasting friendships and enhancing their global perspectives.
The participation of Turkmen students in this highly competitive program reflects the commitment of Turkmen universities to fostering global leadership and cross-cultural exchange. Through empowering students with practical knowledge and skills, SUSI contributes to the development of future leaders who are able to make a positive difference in their communities and the world as a whole.
Shadurdy Myradov,
Education Specialist.
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