UK's Embassy, UNICEF Join Forces to Break Barriers for Children with Disabilities in Turkmenistan

The UK's Embassy in Turkmenistan and UNICEF Turkmenistan have partnered to launch a groundbreaking pilot project aimed at integrating children with disabilities into mainstream education for the first time in the country.

The initiative, currently underway in two kindergartens and two schools in Ashgabat, is set to serve as a model for nationwide expansion, The Caspian Post reports via Turkmen media.

The project’s goal is to create inclusive, safe learning environments supported by multidisciplinary services that improve accessibility, reduce stigma, and enhance support for children with disabilities. This collaboration directly supports the Government of Turkmenistan’s National Concept of Inclusive Education, working closely with the Ministry of Education to promote inclusive teaching practices and advocate for enabling policies.

UNICEF is providing vital support by upgrading school infrastructure to ensure accessibility and supplying assistive technologies. Additionally, the initiative engages teachers, parents, and communities to challenge misconceptions around disability and highlight the importance of inclusion. Through training and capacity-building for educators and caregivers, the project ensures ongoing, tailored support to help children with disabilities realize their full potential.

His Majesty’s Ambassador to Turkmenistan, Stephen Conlon, underscored the significance of the partnership:

“This project, together with UNICEF and the Ministry of Education, marks an important step towards breaking down barriers for children with disabilities in Turkmenistan. As the UK Deputy Prime Minister has said, ‘Every child deserves an environment where they can thrive and get the best start in life.’ Inclusive education not only transforms classrooms but also changes attitudes, fostering a society where every child can thrive. The UK is proud to support this effort to build a future where no child is left behind.”

UNICEF Representative Jalpa Ratna added:

“Advancing inclusive education has been central to our partnership with the Government of Turkmenistan, and this new partnership with the British Embassy brings additional strength to these efforts. By joining hands with partners, we are taking an important step towards ensuring that every child, including children with disabilities, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive in inclusive environments.”