Ashgabat, 1 May 2026 — On 30 April and 1 May, a two-day seminar was held to present the evaluation results of a pilot volunteer program and to plan future activities in line with the National Youth Policy.
The event was organized by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Turkmenistan in cooperation with the State Committee for Physical Culture and Sport of Turkmenistan.
The primary objective of the meeting was to discuss the results of the program on promoting healthy lifestyles, physical culture, and gender equality among youth and its application in secondary schools. Participants discussed the need to expand opportunities for girls and women in sports, which represents a significant contribution to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 5 at local and national levels. The seminar was conducted as part of the 2026–2027 joint Work Plan between UNFPA and the State Committee for Physical Culture and Sport.
During the event, the results of the “Youth, Sport, and Gender Equality” program were presented, including the piloting methodology and success stories of volunteers from five velayats and Ashgabat. Special attention was given to analyzing the impact of social norms and stereotypes on the promotion of healthy lifestyles and equal opportunities. Participants also discussed options for integrating this program into the school curriculum and formulated recommendations for its further expansion.
The seminar was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Education, the State Committee for Physical Culture and Sport, the National Institute of Education, hyakimliks (municipalities), and the main education directorates of all velayats. Sports coaches, program volunteers, and representatives of the “Yenme” public organization also joined the discussions. ///nCa, 3 May 2026 (in cooperation with UNFPA Turkmenistan)