Post by : Shakul
The culmination of the fifth season of the “Young Messengers of Peace” project took place on May 6, 2026, at the Institute of International Relations, Turkmenistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Ashgabat. This extensive educational initiative was jointly organized with the School of Young Diplomats, fostering talent among senior students from various regions of Turkmenistan.
Launched in November 2025 amidst the International Year of Peace and Trust, the initiative was themed “Independent Neutral Turkmenistan – a Hub for Peace and Mutual Trust Dialogue.” Its primary objective was to engage young people in the fields of diplomacy, international relations, leadership, and the historical context of Turkmenistan’s foreign policy.
The competition kick-started with an impressive number of participants from across the nation. Initial rounds assessed their knowledge of school subjects, national history, and international diplomacy. The escalating participation each year highlights a growing enthusiasm among Turkmen youth for education and global collaboration.
The best performers advanced through a series of seven qualifying games, two semifinals, and a final championship round, requiring them to display exceptional knowledge, analytical thinking, leadership strength, and poise under stress.
After months of rigorous competition, six finalists emerged for the concluding phase. Organizers emphasized that the competition promoted creativity, critical thinking, and communication skills, challenging participants to demonstrate capabilities beyond traditional curricula.
Judging was conducted by a respected panel, including academic experts such as Begench Karaev, senior lecturer in International Relations and Diplomacy, Oguljeren Hajyeva from TURKSOY, and Toyly Hommyev from Magtymguly Turkmen State University. Evaluation criteria included knowledge depth, presentation flair, leadership characteristics, and overall performance.
The Grand Prix was awarded to Kerim Dovletov, an 11th grader from Specialized Secondary School No. 6 in Ashgabat. Kakajan Shokhradov from Secondary School No. 9 in Lebap velayat won first place, Aykhan Arslanov from the Specialized Boarding School in Ashgabat took second, and third place went to Humay Danatarova from Specialized Secondary School No. 52 in Ashgabat.
The official awards ceremony was held in the institute’s assembly hall. Winners were presented with diplomas, medals, and commendations from the Central Council of the Magtymguly Youth Organization and the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan. The Grand Prix recipient also received the esteemed Challenge Cup. In keeping with tradition, participants released white doves outside, symbolizing friendship and peace.
According to the organizers, the “Young Messengers of Peace” project has emerged as a prominent youth initiative in Turkmenistan over the last five academic years. As its popularity continues to rise, it has significantly contributed to numerous students accessing higher education in diplomacy and international relations. Official data reveals that 37 past participants are presently enrolled in Turkmenistan’s national diplomacy school, showcasing the project's lasting educational influence.
English
