The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $75 million loan to support the construction of a new nursing and midwifery training center in Ashgabat. In addition, a $2 million grant will be provided from the Japan Fund for Prosperous and Resilient Asia and the Pacific (JFPR).

This marks ADB’s first healthcare sector project in Turkmenistan and aims to enhance the quality and availability of mid-level medical education, particularly for nurses and midwives.

According to Arthur Andrysiak, ADB Country Director in Turkmenistan, the project is designed to address national healthcare demands and bring education programs in line with international standards. He added that this initiative reflects the strengthening of ADB–Turkmenistan cooperation during the 25th anniversary of their partnership.

The new facility in Ashgabat will feature interactive classrooms, clinical simulation labs, a safe maternity training ward, a dormitory for students, and even a fruit garden promoting healthy eating habits. Modern teaching and medical equipment will also be procured.

Additionally, specialized training sessions will be organized for faculty members and senior nurses. Updated curricula will improve both healthcare workforce development and patient care.

The total cost of the project is $98 million, with $23 million co-financed by the Government of Turkmenistan.