The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Turkmenistan, within the framework of the Country Component for Turkmenistan of the regional project “Promoting Sustainable Communities to Prevent Violent Extremism in Central Asia,” held a two-day seminar on the topic “Improving professional skills and employment opportunities for vulnerable youth in Turkmenistan through a gender lens.” The seminar took place on July 10-11, 2024 at the UN building in Ashgabat.

The event brought together representatives of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population, the Ministry of Education, the Youth Organization, the Women's Union and other partners to familiarize participants with advanced approaches to the formation of policies and programs to improve professional skills and employability of vulnerable youth, taking into account gender aspects.

The workshop reviewed best practices and strategies for effective skills development programs, with a particular focus on gender considerations in the design and implementation of employment programs. Participants shared views and comments on the current situation in the field of youth employment in Turkmenistan. Ways to solve the problems faced by young women in the labor market were discussed, as well as opportunities for cooperation to create comprehensive systems to support youth employment.

International consultant Elena Zotova presented examples of skills development initiatives from the G20, BRICS and CIS countries, and also emphasized the importance of partnerships and cooperation strategies for youth employment. Participants discussed the development of joint strategies and plans for implementing youth employment initiatives, which will be an important step towards creating a more inclusive and sustainable future in Turkmenistan.