Turkmenistan at the London Education World Forum

A Turkmen delegation, led by Deputy Minister of Education Azat Atayev, is attending the Education World Forum 2026 in London from May 17 to May 21.

This forum stands as a premier international stage for education policymakers, focusing on policies, digital innovation, and the enhancement of human capital in education. Global ministers and experts are convening to envision the future of education.

In the initial sessions at the Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge Hotel, the delegation outlined ongoing educational reforms in Turkmenistan. They emphasized the inclusion of climate resilience within the nation's educational framework.

The Turkmen team participated in discussions at the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre concentrating on digital education, teacher training, and sustainable learning systems. Their contributions included advancements in university reforms and scientific pursuits.

They revealed progress in higher education metrics, implementing a KPI management system across universities, which tracks over 80 performance indicators. Highlights included an increase in research publications and the establishment of centers for commercializing scientific innovations.

The delegation also presented the Strategy for the Development of Higher Education in Turkmenistan for 2026-2052 and the Atlas of Future Professions, tailored to align graduates with future job market needs and digital economy trends.

Various key bilateral discussions unfolded, including with Classera on AI learning and educational analytics, considering potential pilot projects on digital education.

Discussions with ClassLink revolved around enhancing digital infrastructure and school management systems. Meetings with Times Higher Education focused on boosting the ranking and visibility of Turkmen universities globally.

The delegation engaged with Pearson on international certification and testing standards with the Educational Testing Service. They collaborated with the British Council regarding initiatives in English teaching and inclusive education.

During the event, Deputy Minister Atayev also met with UK Secretary of State for Education Bridget Phillipson, to explore avenues for enhanced educational collaboration between Turkmenistan and the UK.

Turkmen officials assert that active participation in the Education World Forum 2026 will bolster international ties, foster digital transformation in education, and enhance the nation’s competitive human capital development.