Trainings for representatives of the education system of Turkmenistan continue within the framework of the U.S. Department of State’s “International Visitor Leadership Program” (IVLP)

As part of the visit, presentations by members of the Turkmen delegation were organized at Kent State University in the state of Ohio, USA. The event was attended by students and faculty members of Kent State University.

The speakers from Turkmenistan provided a detailed account of the significant reforms taking place in Turkmenistan’s education system, thanks to the efforts of the President of Turkmenistan, and the results achieved. They noted that there is extensive work being done to improve the national education system and to educate youth with broad perspectives, capable of managing innovative technologies.

It was emphasized that, along with the construction of social infrastructure, modern educational institutions are actively being built in both rural and urban areas of Turkmenistan. Attention was given to the implementation of the National Program for Socio-Economic Development of Turkmenistan for 2022–2052, in which a key focus is on improving the education system and preparing highly qualified specialists. Specific areas highlighted included the transition to 12-year general secondary education, the development of a digital education system, the improvement of foreign language teaching, natural and exact sciences, and the modernization of teaching methods in line with concepts aimed at meeting global standards.

It was also noted that Turkmenistan is actively studying positive international experiences, expanding ties with foreign scientific and educational centers. The delegation reported that the country has specific goals and tasks for improving the education system, and there are significant opportunities to achieve them.

After that, the training continued at Kent State University’s International Education Department. The event was attended by Paulo Mussi, Vice President for International Education, Rachel Mundie, Associate Director for International Cooperation, Aya Khudaibergenova, Central Asia Program Manager, Ellie Styles, Associate Director for International Students Admission, and Amber Cruxton, Director of Study Abroad Programs.

The American representatives noted that the International Education Department deals with international cooperation in education, supports the internationalization of the learning environment, and creates opportunities for international collaboration for students and faculty.

Among the main areas of the department’s activities, the following were highlighted:

• implementation of study abroad programs;

• organization of exchange programs for students and faculty;

• development of international cooperation with universities around the world;

• support for Kent State University students;

• preparation of relevant documents for international students.

The speakers emphasized that the department significantly contributes to the increase of the university’s academic competitiveness through the development of international connections, cultural exchange, and global cooperation.

Ellie Styles and Amber Cruxton provided detailed information about exchange programs and other initiatives for Kent State University students, as well as the conditions for international students studying at the university.

It was noted that currently there are four types of study and work programs for Kent State University students and faculty abroad:

1. sending students to partner universities for exchange programs;

2. sending students to study at Kent State University’s branch in Florence (Italy);

3. recruiting students by Kent State University professors to study abroad, organizing study programs of 1-3 weeks at partner universities;

4. conducting joint scientific research between Kent State University professors and those of partner universities.

Additionally, it was noted that a mixed format with Brazil is in operation, where a student studies 2 years at Kent State University and 2 years at a university in Brazil, and after successfully completing the studies, receives diplomas from both countries.

It was reported that annually, 1500 students are sent abroad for education.

To familiarize with the activities of the Polymer Industry Cluster and cooperation with universities, the Turkmen delegation held a meeting in its building with Holly Harris Bane, Director of Economic Development of the city of Aurora, Greg Gramer, President of Akron’s Global Relations Council, Sam Deshazier, Economic Development Consultant for the City of Akron, and Alyssa Carpenter, Director of Business Development for the Greater Akron Chamber of Commerce.

The speakers noted that the city of Akron is an important industrial center in the U.S. and provided an overview of its history.

The Polymer Industry Cluster brings together more than 70 companies and research institutes engaged in the production and sales of polymers and related technologies. Due to its strategic location, modern infrastructure, and skilled workforce, the cluster is an important center for polymer industry companies.

The main areas of activity of the cluster include:

• production of polymers (polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene) and chemical additives to improve material properties;

• production of plastic products for the automotive, packaging, construction, medical, and consumer electronics industries;

• conducting scientific research on new polymer materials and sustainable technologies;

• creating new manufacturing processes, equipment, and engineering designs for the polymer industry;

• conducting laboratory research and assessing the quality of new polymers;

• cooperation with educational institutions to prepare specialists in polymer technology.

The cluster collaborates with the University of Akron in the following areas:

• preparing specialists in line with industry needs;

• implementing joint scientific projects;

• organizing internships for students at industrial sites;

• participating in competitions for government and private research grants.

Such cooperation allows for combining the scientific potential of universities with the practical experience and manufacturing capabilities of enterprises, contributing to the preparation of qualified specialists and the introduction of innovative technologies.

The Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan