On February 23, 2026, the International University for the Humanities and Development (IUHD) hosted a vibrant Japanese Day, uniting students, faculty, and guests in a celebration of culture, creativity, and Turkmen–Japanese friendship. The event reflected IUHD’s commitment to intercultural dialogue, global cooperation, and youth diplomacy.

In honor of the 2026 motto, “Independent, Neutral Turkmenistan – the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses,” IUHD organized a national two-stage competition titled “Origami: The Crane — A Symbol of Peace and Hope.”

During the first stage, participants created origami cranes (鶴 – tsuru), a symbol of peace, hope, longevity, and resilience in Japanese culture. In the second stage, students composed original 5–7–5 haiku poems dedicated to the Year’s motto, reflecting independence, eternal neutrality, national pride, and hopeful development. Winners were awarded first-, second-, and third-degree diplomas for their creativity and meaningful interpretation of peace as a universal value.

The celebration continued with an engaging cultural program organized by the IUHD Languages Department and the Curious Intellects Club. Students explored kintsugi, participated in sushi and mochi мастер classes, experienced the matcha tea ceremony, practiced kanji writing, and joined interactive intellectual games. A presentation on Turkmen–Japanese relations highlighted the strong diplomatic friendship between the two nations, while musical performances added a vibrant artistic atmosphere.

Japanese Day at IUHD once again proved that peace and understanding are strengthened not only through diplomacy, but also through culture, education, and shared creative experiences.