Education System in Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan is a Central Asian nation bordered by Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Iran. Covering an area comparable to California, the country gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Since then, it has pursued isolationist policies, leading to significant socio-economic challenges. Despite possessing vast natural resources, particularly natural gas, approximately 35% of the population lives below the poverty line. Historically rich, Turkmenistan was once home to great empires and has a cultural heritage that dates back to ancient times. However, the current political atmosphere has fostered a climate of nationalism and limited external engagement.

Overview of the Education System

The educational framework in Turkmenistan has been significantly influenced by the government's policies, which have led to a narrowing of subject diversity and a decline in teacher salaries. Furthermore, the reintroduction of the traditional Turkmen alphabet has created barriers to accessing global educational resources. The education system is characterized by a structured approach that encompasses primary, secondary, and tertiary education, albeit with challenges that impact the quality and accessibility of education.

Primary Education

Current State

Primary education in Turkmenistan is undergoing substantial changes, with an increasing emphasis on the memorization of Islamic scriptures. This shift has raised concerns regarding the breadth of education provided to students, particularly in terms of critical thinking and practical knowledge.

Gender Concerns

There are growing fears that the rights of girls to receive an education are becoming compromised. This trend may lead to restrictions on the educational opportunities available to young girls, further exacerbating gender inequality in the country.

Secondary Education

Duration and Structure

Secondary education spans nine years, combining both lower and upper secondary levels. This duration has been reduced from the previous ten years that were in place before the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

Medium of Instruction

The primary language of instruction in secondary schools is Turkmen, which reinforces the national identity but also limits exposure to foreign languages and perspectives.

Curriculum

The curriculum is heavily influenced by a book known as Rukhnama, authored by a former president. This has shifted the educational focus toward propaganda, diminishing the diversity of subjects taught and the overall educational experience.

Recent Changes

The last two years of secondary education have been eliminated, which has further narrowed the scope of education and may impact the readiness of students for higher academic pursuits or vocational training.

Tertiary Education

Higher Education Institutions

Turkmenistan boasts several higher education institutions, but access to tertiary education is no longer free of charge. The landscape of higher education has become increasingly competitive and restrictive.

Admission Policies

Prospective students often face ethnic background checks, which can affect their eligibility for admission. This practice raises concerns about fairness and equality in access to education.

Academic Environment

Many established academics are experiencing a decline in their influence due to challenges associated with language proficiency in Turkmen and an emphasis on ethnic purity.

Turkmenistan State University

• Originally founded in 1931 as the Ashgabat Pedagogical Institute, Turkmenistan State University is now the sole tertiary institution in the nation.
• The university offers a variety of faculties, but these are gradually being reduced in number, impacting the breadth of academic options available.
• In a troubling development, the recognition of foreign academic qualifications has been revoked, which poses significant challenges for students, particularly girls aspiring to pursue higher education.

Conclusion

The education system in Turkmenistan is currently navigating a complex landscape marked by both historical significance and modern challenges. Issues such as reduced access to diverse educational resources, gender inequality, and restrictive policies raise critical questions about the future of education in the country. Ensuring equitable access to quality education for all students will be essential for fostering a more inclusive and progressive society.