Oriented on making people closer

As part of cooperation to strengthen the early childhood development (ECD) system in Turkmenistan, UNICEF organized a visit by international expert Christian Morazbito. Together with national partners, Morazbito participated in the development of a new National Strategy on Early Childhood Development for 2026-2030.

Christian Morazbito worked with the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry, and the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of Turkmenistan to promote a comprehensive inclusive approach to ECD policy. He visited institutions providing services in this area, including the Early Childhood Development Center at Kindergarten No. 138 in Bezmein etrap of Ashgabat, the ECD Center at one of the city health centers, and met with social work specialists.

On July 15, a workshop for representatives of key ministries and agencies involved in early childhood development was held at the UN building in Ashgabat. Opening the meeting together with representatives of the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Healthcare and Medical Industry, Jalpa Ratna, UNICEF Representative in Turkmenistan, stressed the importance of investing in early childhood development.

“Investing in early childhood development is one of the most effective strategies for building human capital,” Ms. Ratna said. “It has been proven that every dollar invested in quality ECD programs can yield up to $13 in return through improvements in health, education and the economy. By supporting children in their earliest and most critical years, we help each child to reach their potential while contributing to the development of society and the economy.”

During the workshop, Mr. Morazbito presented global facts, best practices and key findings from cross-sectoral ECD programs. He praised Turkmenistan’s efforts and noted that many of the approaches used in the country could serve as examples for other countries. He particularly emphasized the inclusive nature of the work in Turkmenistan, including the establishment of ECD working groups that bring together representatives of various ministries and agencies for coordinated and concerted action across the government.

Photo: UNICEF in Turkmenistan