Turkmenistan’s medical specialists advance their expertise in life-saving care for newborns and young children
In a neonatal intensive care unit, time is measured differently. A baby born too early struggles to take a breath. A young child arrives with a severe infection. A newborn’s heart needs urgent support. In these moments, the knowledge, confidence and teamwork of specialists at the bedside can save lives.
Led by the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan, with technical support from UNICEF, the national training programme in intensive care for newborns and children under five brought together more than 300 participants between 2025–2026. Across Turkmenistan, medical specialists work every day, often around the clock, to give newborns and young children the best possible chance to survive and thrive. The programme supported their continued professional development, building on the expertise they bring to this life-saving work.
They came from across the health system: neonatologists, neonatal intensive care specialists, paediatric intensive care specialists, and obstetrician-gynaecologists, joined by clinical residents, senior medical students and university faculty. What united them was a shared purpose: to be ready when a child’s life depends on them.
For these specialists, continued learning builds on the expertise they bring to children’s care. As research advances medical knowledge and clinical guidance is reviewed and updated, ongoing professional learning helps them assess new approaches and apply relevant guidance in their own settings. This is part of medical practice around the world, supporting quality care for children.
Over four training cycles, the learning went well beyond the lecture hall. Across seven modules and more than 22 topics, ranging from respiratory and cardiovascular conditions to neurological and infectious diseases and paediatric anaesthesia, participants worked through clinical case discussions, practical exercises and simulation-based demonstrations, supported by clinical mentoring. At the National Simulation Centre, the National Centre for Maternal and Child Health, regional hospitals and other healthcare facilities in Ashgabat and Mary, participants practiced the critical decisions they face in real emergencies. Knowledge assessments before and after the training tracked the progress.
The results are already reaching hospital wards. Twelve clinical algorithms and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for emergency and intensive care of children in critical condition have been developed and approved, giving medical teams clear, consistent guidance when every second matters. Around 12 healthcare institutions at national and regional levels have introduced revised approaches to intensive care, turning new knowledge into better care for children.Behind this progress is a strong partnership. The programme was led by the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry, with UNICEF providing technical support. International experts from Belarus, including Mikhail Strizhak and Dmitry Sankovets, worked side by side with national specialists to share their experience and practical skills.
On 30 October 2026, the specialists who completed the programme were recognized at a certificate ceremony at the United Nations Building in Ashgabat. The ceremony celebrated their dedication and commitment to the children and families who rely on them.
“One of the most valuable outcomes of this programme is the development of trainers who can pass their knowledge and skills on to others,” said Jalpa Ratna, UNICEF Representative in Turkmenistan. “By sharing experience, mentoring colleagues and supporting practical learning, they can contribute to continued professional development and quality care well beyond the training room. Investing in the knowledge and skills of health professionals is, ultimately, an investment in children’s lives.”
This is what will make the change last. The programme prepared national and regional trainers who will carry their skills back to their hospitals and colleagues. Through mentoring and knowledge-sharing, the benefits of the training can reach far beyond the participating specialists and facilities, so that more newborns and young children across the country receive timely, quality care.
"We are already applying what we learned in our daily work, and it is helping us make better clinical decisions for critically ill children. Our task now is to share this knowledge with colleagues and, together, improve the quality of care for children," said Azat Torayev, Neonatologist, Mother and Child Center, Lebap Velayat.
The programme reflects the shared commitment of the Government of Turkmenistan and UNICEF to strengthening the health system and improving access to quality essential health services for every child, as set out in the Country Programme for 2026–2030. The Ministry of Health and Medical Industry and UNICEF will continue working together to support professional development, promote modern clinical approaches and improve care for newborns and young children across Turkmenistan.
Behind every child who pulls through a critical moment is a team that knows exactly what to do. When we strengthen the capacities of people who care for children, we help build a healthier future for every child.
