Turkmenistan Celebrates Young Diplomats in Peace Project Finale

Post by : Shakul

The fifth season of the “Young Messengers of Peace” initiative was officially concluded on May 6, 2026, at Turkmenistan's Institute of International Relations. This expansive educational initiative, conducted in partnership with the School of Young Diplomats, gathered exceptionally talented students from across the nation.

Launching in November 2025, during the International Year of Peace and Trust, the theme of this year's project was “Independent Neutral Turkmenistan – the Center of Peace Policy and Dialogue of Mutual Trust.” The main objectives were to cultivate interest in areas such as diplomacy, leadership, and the foreign relations of Turkmenistan among the youth.

The initial stages engaged hundreds of students nationwide, who participated in selection rounds focusing on their knowledge in various subjects, national history, and diplomatic affairs. Organizers noted a growing enthusiasm among Turkmen youth for education and global cooperation, as evidenced by rising participation figures each year.

Top-performing students advanced to compete in a series of challenging intellectual contests, comprised of seven qualifying rounds, two semifinals, and a final championship. Participants showcased their analytical skills, leadership capability, and poise under pressure throughout the competition.

After several months of rigorous tasks, six outstanding students reached the final phase. The organizers emphasized the event's design aimed not just at academic scrutiny but also at provoking creativity, critical thinking, and effective communication regarding contemporary global issues.

A reputable panel of judges consisting of university lecturers and experts evaluated the finalists. Among the jury were Begench Karaev from the Department of International Relations and Diplomacy and Oguljeren Hajyeva from TURKSOY. Participants were assessed on various criteria, including their knowledge, presentation, and leadership skills during the final competition.

Results revealed that the Grand Prix was awarded to Kerim Dovletov, an 11th-grader from Specialized Secondary School No. 6 in Ashgabat. The first runner-up was Kakajan Shokhradov from Secondary School No. 9 in Lebap velayat, with Aykhan Arslanov and Humay Danatarova taking second and third places respectively.

The awards ceremony took place in the institute's assembly hall, where winners were honored with diplomas, medals, and gifts from the Central Council of the Magtymguly Youth Organization, as well as from the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan. The Grand Prix recipient also received the distinguished Challenge Cup. In keeping with tradition, participants released white doves post-ceremony as a symbol of peace and unity.

Organizers highlighted that the “Young Messengers of Peace” project has established itself as an influential initiative within Turkmenistan's educational landscape over the last five years. It reflects growing popularity among students, with many former participants now pursuing advanced studies in diplomacy and international relations—37 currently enrolled in Turkmenistan’s School of Diplomacy, showcasing the initiative's long-lasting impact.

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