From 26 to 31 October 2025, representatives from Turkmenistan participated in the Kick-Off Meeting of the Erasmus+ KA171 Central Asia Project, held at the “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Italian Republic. The event was organized within the framework of the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union, which supports international cooperation and mobility in higher education.
Turkmenistan was represented by Arslan Charyyev, Lecturer at the International University for the Humanities and Development, and Shirin Durdyyeva, Lecturer at the Turkmen State University named after Magtymguly.
The program began with an official institutional session at the Comune di Pescara, attended by the Deputy Mayor of Pescara, the Vice-Rector of the University, and the Rector’s Delegate for the Erasmus Programme. During the opening, the participants were welcomed by representatives of the host university, who emphasized the importance of expanding educational partnerships between higher education institutions of Europe and Central Asia.
On 28 October, the working sessions continued at the Pescara Campus of “G. d’Annunzio” University. The participants were introduced to the Erasmus+ KA171 2025 Project for Central Asia, its main objectives, and future cooperation opportunities. Presentations were delivered by representatives of the host institution, including Ms. Ana Bargan and Prof. Maria Teresa Giusti, highlighting existing collaborations with Central Asian universities and outlining prospects for joint initiatives under the Erasmus+ 2026 Call.
On 29 October, participants visited the Chieti Campus of “G. d’Annunzio” University. The visit included a presentation of the university’s modern infrastructure, academic facilities, and innovative educational environment, which support the integration of advanced teaching methods and research in higher education.
At the conclusion of the program, certificates of participation were awarded to the representatives of participating universities, acknowledging their contribution to strengthening international academic cooperation.
The Erasmus+ KA171 Project will further include staff and student mobility programs during the 2026–2027 academic years, creating new opportunities for exchange of experience, development of pedagogical competencies, and enhancement of intercultural dialogue between European and Turkmen higher education institutions.
Participation in this international project once again demonstrates the commitment of Turkmen higher education institutions to the goals of modernization, innovation, and global partnership, in line with the strategic objectives of Turkmenistan’s educational policy.
At the conclusion, the participants expressed their deep gratitude to the National Leader of Turkmen people Hero Arkadag, and the Esteemed President Arkadagly Hero Serdar, for the constant support and tireless efforts in promoting international cooperation, strengthening the prestige of Turkmen education, and creating favorable conditions for the integration of Turkmen youth into the global academic community