Turkmenistan Enhances Its Social Work Training Programme
Amul Info ·
With UNICEF support, Turkmenistan is updating its social work degree programmes at Magtymguly Turkmen State University and Seyitnazar Seydi Turkmen State Pedagogical Institute. A total of 125 students are currently enrolled, and the first 35 graduates are expected in the 2026–2027 academic year.
In 2023, bachelor’s degree programmes in Social Work were launched for the first time at two higher education institutions in Turkmenistan: Magtymguly Turkmen State University in Ashgabat and Seyitnazar Seydi Turkmen State Pedagogical Institute in Turkmenabat. Currently, 125 students are studying in this field. The first 35 specialists are expected to graduate during the 2026–2027 academic year.
Since March 2026, lecturers from both universities, representatives of the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Population of Turkmenistan, and experienced social work professionals have been reviewing the curriculum with UNICEF’s support. The process draws on recommendations from the International Federation of Social Workers and the International Association of Schools of Social Work. The main objective is to align professional training with the country’s workforce needs and leading international practices.
From September 29 to October 10, 2026, Dr Salome Namitcheishvili, UNICEF’s international expert, visited Turkmenistan on a working mission. During the visit, a joint consultation involving both universities was held, along with several lectures for students and academic staff.
The revised curriculum will place particular emphasis on practical training. A new tool—a student portfolio for practical experience—will be introduced to assess students’ professional competencies. Opportunities for placements at institutions providing social services will also be expanded.
In addition, experts have developed new courses that will be taught for the first time to senior-year students over the next two semesters. These include social work with children, young people and families; child protection; and working with communities and organizations.
Final-year students received guidance on preparing graduation theses, completing practical placements and getting ready for final examinations. First-year students, meanwhile, were introduced to the fundamental concepts of social work.
According to Shemshat Abdyyeva, Head of the Social Welfare Department at the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Population of Turkmenistan, the ministry is grateful for the opportunity to participate in reviewing the curriculum together with lecturers from the two higher education institutions.
She expressed confidence that a high-quality training programme would equip future social work professionals with the knowledge, professional values and practical skills needed to support children, families and communities. Specialists trained in this way will also be able to contribute to the development of Turkmenistan’s social services system.