From the 12th to 16th of October, the Ministry of education of Turkmenistan, with the support of UNICEF, held a series of seminars and consultations in Mary and Ashgabat. The events focused on modern game-based and research-based methods in preschool education, as well as improving the training system for educators and early childhood development specialists.
The meetings were attended by representatives of the Ministry of education, the National institute of education, methodologists from the velayat and etrap levels, as well as kindergarten teachers.
–Quality preschool education begins with teachers who clearly understand how children learn and develop at an early age, – noted UNICEF Deputy Representative in Turkmenistan Zhanar Sagimbayeva. – By promoting play-based approaches and strengthening professional development, we help create an inclusive and engaging environment where every child can reach their full potential.
In Mary, international expert of UNICEF on preschool education, Christian Fabbi, visited pilot kindergartens together with the national team. Experts assessed how game-based and research-based methods are applied in practice and also attended open sessions with teachers.
In addition, a practical seminar was held for 35 specialists and teachers. Participants explored how group supervision and a supportive environment help to accommodate individual interests of each child , developing curiosity, creativity, and emotional intelligence.
A two-day seminar in Ashgabat, led by Christian Fabbi, was devoted to the analysis and approval of two new methodological manuals and practical tools. Participants discussed how to integrate modern psychology and pedagogy textbooks into the curricula of universities, colleges, and advanced training institutes so that future and current teachers can apply best international practices.
The developed educational and methodological materials will support the efforts of the Ministry of education of Turkmenistan to develop inclusive, play-based, and child-centered learning, creating a solid foundation for the education of children throughout the country.
