Turkmenistan continues to implement global social development goals at the local level. With support from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the NGO “Ýnamly Dürmüş,” a three-month vocational training program for women was successfully completed in Lebap province.

119 women and girls from Afghan and local communities in the village of Tyaze Yurt successfully passed their final sewing exam, demonstrating high levels of engagement and a desire for growth. This was reported by IOM’s Turkmenistan office.

A key feature of this IOM initiative, which is part of the regional project "Comprehensive Action Plan for Afghanistan and Neighboring Countries," is its focus on creating sustainable income sources. All graduates received official certificates confirming their qualification as seamstresses. To enable immediate application of their skills, all 119 graduates were provided with professional sewing machines purchased by IOM.

This group represents the second cohort in the project. A total of 239 women have now been trained in sewing and provided with personal sewing machines. This effort directly contributes to expanding economic opportunities for women and girls, as well as fostering social cohesion at the local level.

A specific success story comes from graduate Bahar Muhammetosmanova, who not only gained knowledge but also started her own business: “The training was a real starting point for my independent professional life. Together with a few friends, I was able to open my own home-based business, which brings in income. I’m so grateful for this opportunity!”

The IOM regional project’s work goes beyond vocational training. To ensure long-term sustainable development for Afghan and local communities, the Mobile Resource Center has provided medical and legal consultations to over 6,000 beneficiaries from Afghan and local communities in the villages of Akhal and Lebap provinces. Additionally, a medical point in the village of Parahatchilik in Akhal province was upgraded to provide long-term, quality healthcare services.

This project serves as a vivid example of how Turkmenistan and its international partners are practically implementing global commitments, such as those confirmed at the UN Social Development Summit in Doha.