The C5+O.N.E. (Opening Networks Through English) Program has officially launched its sixth cohort, bringing together over 500 government, private sector, civil society, and media professionals from across Central Asia.

Funded by the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs of the U.S. Department of State and implemented by the American Councils for International Education, the program strengthens English proficiency across the region to support deeper integration, enhance professional collaboration, and expand economic ties with the United States.

Participants of Cohort 6 represent all countries of Central Asia and come from key economic sectors including agriculture, banking and finance, information technology, entrepreneurship, and energy. They will study “English for the Economy,” connect with American experts, and build professional networks across Central Asia and with colleagues in the United States. Participants will also join an alumni network of more than 1200 professionals who have already completed the program.

In her welcoming remarks to the new cohort, U.S. Ambassador to Kazakhstan Julie Stufft emphasized the role of English in professional development and international cooperation. “English is the language of global commerce, technology, science, and research,” Ambassador Stufft said. “Your skills will strengthen economic ties between Central Asia and the United States and help create shared prosperity.”

Over the next nine months, participants will engage in coursework and professional development opportunities designed to strengthen English skills, foster cross-border networks, and equip Central Asian professionals to collaborate with peers across the region and the United States. Participants will also take part in national events in their respective countries and a regional conference that brings together experts from throughout Central Asia to collaborate with American experts.

Ambassador Stufft also highlighted the achievements of the program’s alumni. “Graduates of this program have earned promotions, joined local branches of American companies, and delivered speeches in English at international conferences,” she noted. “They have built lasting partnerships across Central Asia and with colleagues in the United States.”

The sixth cohort includes over 150 participants from Kazakhstan, more than 90 from the Kyrgyz Republic, more than 120 from Tajikistan, over 90 from Turkmenistan, and more than 100 from Uzbekistan.

The launch of Cohort 6 reaffirms C5+O.N.E.’s commitment to building skills, promoting regional cooperation, and expanding opportunities for shared U.S.–Central Asia growth and prosperity.