Disclaimer: For the purposes of confidentiality, all names referenced herein have been changed.When Maksat was taken to the juvenile department after a street fight, it could have been the beginning of a long road of trouble. Like many children who find themselves in trouble with the law, Maksat wasn't "spoiled" - he simply grew up without support, in a family overwhelmed by difficulties.At home, Maksat's mother worked long hours to support the family, and his father, unsettled by employment and alcohol abuse, became increasingly distant. Maksat and his older brother spent most of their time outdoors, and strolling, minor misbehaviors, and begging passersby for money became a norm. One day, an argument escalated into a fight—and the boy came to the attention of the police.But instead of punishment, Maksat received something much more important - a chance.From police registration to a support planAfter registering with the inspectorate, Maksat was included in the diversion program - a system that allows children to avoid formal criminal prosecution, receiving in return support, mentoring, and specialist assistance.An interdepartmental team — a juvenile affairs inspector, psychologist, and social worker - joined forces to support him and his family, aware that a difficult journey lay ahead.The inspector became a mentor to the boy, meeting regularly to discuss his behavior and help him set realistic goals. The psychologist helped Maksat understand his feelings, taught him to control his anger, and express his emotions verbally rather than through actions. The social worker worked closely with the parents to restore stability at home and navigate daily challenges, including administrative tasks and finding temporary work.The Family Resource Assessment (FRA) was a critical turning point. Instead of focusing on failures, the FRA revealed hidden strengths. This revelation was powerful. It shifted the family's narrative from "we are the problem" to "we have strengths we've forgotten."Heal the family to help the childThe changes didn't happen immediately. During joint meetings, Maksat's mother admitted for the first time that she hadn't realized how much her absence was impacting her son. Family therapy with the family helped her consider finding a job with a flexible schedule so she could spend more time with the children. After several months of counseling, the father found temporary work and became more involved in the family's life. Gradually, the home became filled with trust and warmth.Maksat gradually started to change. He stopped fighting and skipping school. Teachers noticed that the boy had become calmer and more focused, and he showed an aptitude for computer science and foreign languages.His family’s struggles may not vanish overnight. Yet the boy once known for street fights and truancy is now charting a new path.He began attending school more regularly, not because he was forced to, but because he could express himself there. Helping his mother was no longer just a duty, but an act of love.Maksat’s story does not end with a dramatic finale, but with a new beginning.  He now sees more opportunities in life, while the team of specialists continues supporting Maksat and his family to help make their life better. What do diversion measures provide?Maksat.'s story demonstrates that diversion of juveniles from formal justice is a powerful tool for re-education through support and restoration as long as the right support structures are in place.This approach allows us to see the child as an individual capable of change when provided with the right support and care.Diversion measures do not eliminate accountability — they transform consequences into opportunities for growth. By engaging families, schools, and communities, these programmes help children in conflict with the law develop responsibility, rebuild trust, and successfully reintegrate into society. For Maksat, this was a new beginning. And for those around him, it was an example of how one child can avoid a path to reoffending.The Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Population, with the support of UNICEF, are advancing the application of diversion measures for minors away from formal justice processes so that every child who comes into conflict with the law receives not only justice, but also understanding, support, and a real chance to start life anew.

Early Detection I am 40 and from Sarahs. I discovered I had diabetes by chance - during a routine health check-up at my previous job. I had no complaints and felt completely healthy. But a blood test revealed elevated 6.8 glucose level. I was referred to an endocrinologist. The doctor said this was above the norm and that I needed an additional test for glycated hemoglobin, which shows the "average" blood sugar level over three months. To my surprise, I didn't even have to go to Ashgabat for it; I could get the test done right there at the polyclinic in Sarahs. My glycated hemoglobin was also above normal."You have type 2 diabetes," the doctor said after reviewing all my tests. It was a shock for me. Yes, I knew about diabetes - my mother has it. But I always thought I definitely wouldn't get it.Accessible Treatment The doctor explained that I was lucky - the diabetes was detected at an early stage. But she warned me: the disease cannot be cured, only controlled. Almost immediately, after checking that my liver and kidneys were fine, I was prescribed a medication - metformin.Mentally, I was prepared to start buying pills. But it turned out that wasn't even necessary. I was registered at the Sarahs polyclinic, and every month I started receiving metformin for free. I took it twice a day as prescribed. And I still take it to this day.Ongoing ControlThey also detected hypertension, which I was unaware of. A cardiologist selected medications for me, which are also provided to me for free at the polyclinic. And now my blood pressure is stable. Yes, I have to regularly get my blood sugar, creatinine, and albumin checked at my local polyclinic near home to monitor my kidney health. I also get my cholesterol checked there every six months. The doctor explained that with my lifestyle and diagnosis, this is very important: with diabetes, cholesterol plaques form on blood vessel walls faster, which means a higher risk of heart attack and stroke. But all of this is checked quickly - no need to travel to the capital or abroad.Today, I have been living with diabetes for 3 years. I keep it under control! I take my medication, try to watch my diet, check my sugar, and see my doctors. I feel like a person again, not a hostage to the disease. I can work and provide for my family. I can afford to have fun with my younger son without falling apart. We even went on a summer vacation to the seaside!Within Walking DistanceI hope my example helps those who are also facing this problem. The most important thing is not to face the illness alone. Go to the polyclinic, see the specialists - they will help, just as they helped me. Many don't even know that now, in any etrap, you can get almost all tests done at the polyclinics; any etrap has modern laboratories with reagents in stock.I now send all my neighbors to our polyclinic. And many have already gotten checked: some also had high sugar, some had liver issues, some had heart problems. They started treatment right there, receive medications - they don't even have to buy them - and feel better than before. Isn't that happiness? UNDP and Turkmenistan: Jointly Strengthening the Healthcare SystemIn Turkmenistan, UNDP, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry, continues to implement projects aimed at strengthening the healthcare system, ensuring access to diagnostics and quality medicines. Under these initiatives, clinical laboratories are being equipped - from velayat centers to remote etraps across the country - and reagents for conducting a wide spectrum of various tests are being procured. Medications for the treatment of infectious diseases and non-communicable diseases - cardiovascular, neurological, endocrinological, oncological, and rare conditions, including those requiring lifelong therapy - are also being supplied.Access to timely treatment and prevention allows people to maintain their health, ability to work, and quality of life. This opens up opportunities to focus on education, work, and participation in society on an equal basis with others. For the state, this means less disability, fewer social payments, and reduced spending on costly treatment of complications. Healthy people continue to work, pay taxes, and develop the economy, and every investment in prevention yields a manifold return."Universal health coverage, based on the prevention and early detection of diseases, is a fundamental investment in a healthy society and a strong economy, where every resource invested is multiplied by the productivity of citizens. Building on successful experience in innovative technologies, UNDP and Turkmenistan will continue to collaborate in building a resilient healthcare system. Our joint focus is aimed at the widespread expansion of access to diagnostics and treatment, the digitalization of services, and the strengthening of human resource capacity, to make healthcare a driver of sustainable development for every resident of Turkmenistan," - notes Narine Sahakyan, UNDP Resident Representative in Turkmenistan.

Our story is about what masculinity is and what it means to be a man in the 21st century,how modern young men and young women change the social norms to advance gender equality, empowerment and human rights for all, including women and girls.We would like to tell this story about Nedir, a 35-year-old sports coach from Mary velayat, represents a new generation of Turkmen men in Turkmenistan who are redefining what it means to be a man and what is masculinity. From his childhood Nedir Nedir viewed masculinity through a rigid lens: a man was a provider, a protector, and the sole decision-maker. As a sambo trainer at a local sports school, he lived in a world of physical dominance, teaching teenage boys that "masculine" meant being the strongest person in the room.However, the seeds of change were planted the moment girls began walking into his gym. As he coached them to fight, control their emotions, and claim victory, his old beliefs began to crumble. He watched with immense pride as five of his female students rose to national and international levels in martial arts—traditionally a "man’s world." He realized then that strength and resilience have no gender. Nedir’s transformation reached a turning point when he joined the "Youth, Sports and Gender Equality" initiative, a collaboration between the State Committee of Turkmenistan for Physical Culture and Sport and UNFPA, conducted as part of a UNFPA regional project funded by the UK government. This program gave Nedir a new vocabulary for the feelings he had been developing. He transitioned from a traditional coach to a social advocate, participating in workshops alongside trainers and volunteers from Ashgabat and Lebap. He sharpened his public speaking skills that allowed him to lead discussions on how restrictive social norms hold everyone back.Today, Nedir teaches young men that true strength is found in partnership and respect, not superiority. He often frames gender equality as a team sport—a "win for everyone"— where a healthy society can only be built if every player is given an equal chance to succeed. The most profound change, however, is not found in the gym, but in Nedir’s own home. The man who once believed in "traditional roles" now shares domestic duties and childcare equally with his wife. By prioritizing her rest and her goals, he discovered that a marriage based on mutual respect is far more stable than one based on hierarchy. For Nedir, washing the dishes or caring for his children isn't a loss of masculinity; it is an act of leadership.Today Nedir remains convinced that a coach’s job doesn't end when the whistle blows. He believes that by involving men in the conversation about equality, he is helping to foster a society where both boys and girls have the same chance to realize their potential. To Nedir, being a leader means ensuring that his community wins together, built on a foundation of peace, respect, and shared progress. Currently the programme was scaled up to all 5 regions in the country. By engaging young athletes and coaches in the promotion of gender equality and volunteerism, the project has created a vital movement that continues to popularize healthy lifestyles and equal opportunities through the power of sport.

Always passionate about technology and innovation, Aysoltan Annamamedova, a fourth-year student at the Oguz Khan Engineering and Technology University of Turkmenistan, recently took a bold step toward the future by participating in the international educational initiative Future Skills Sprint in Istanbul, Turkiye. This intensive programme is designed to cultivate digital skills, innovative thinking, and professional competencies among talented youth.The initiative, organized by the MEXT Technology Center in partnership with the Istanbul Regional Hub of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP IRH), UNDP Turkiye, and Turkish tech company Hepsiburada, brought together young professionals from around the world from November 20 to 22, 2025, to explore emerging trends in artificial intelligence, the digital economy, and the evolving global labor market.Aysoltan earned her place in the in-person programme after completing rigorous six-week online courses offered by UNDP IRH. During these preparatory courses, international experts guided participants through topics such as automation, AI, sustainability, supply chains, and global technological trends. These courses not only strengthened her collaboration and problem-solving skills but also inspired her to pursue advanced opportunities in digital innovation.“The Future Skills Sprint opened a world of new opportunities for me,” says Aysoltan. “It gave me the confidence to keep moving forward, learn more, and shape my own future.During the three-day sprint in Istanbul, Aysoltan gained invaluable, firsthand exposure to cutting-edge technologies. Highlights of the programme included a Digital Factory Tour showcasing Industry 4.0 technologies, lectures on the EU ETS and CBAM mechanisms, and workshops connecting technology solutions to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The sessions not only deepened her technical knowledge but also strengthened her creativity, critical thinking, and teamwork skills — all vital for the fast-evolving digital world. Building Technical Expertise with the Future Work AcademyAysoltan’s participation in the Future Skills Sprint is part of a broader regional effort led by the UNDP Istanbul Regional Hub - the Future of Work Academy. This initiative equips young people across Europe and Central Asia with the skills needed for the green and digital transition. The Sprint serves as the Academy’s intensive, in-person training module, offering hands-on exposure to artificial intelligence, Industry 4.0 technologies, sustainability, and future-oriented competences.By completing the six-week online preparatory courses and joining the in-person Sprint, Aysoltan became part of this regional ecosystem, empowering youth with practical, forward-thinking skills. The program has strengthened her ability to thrive in the ever-evolving job market and inspired her to take on more ambitious projects.Networking with peers from Turkiye, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan added another dimension to her experience. Sharing ideas and collaborating with young professionals from diverse backgrounds broadened her perspective. “Future Skills Sprint gave me the confidence to keep learning, experimenting, and embracing opportunities,” Aysoltan shared. “Every new skill opens a door to innovation and shapes the path of my professional growth.” Learning and Growing with Future Skills AcademyIn addition to her experience in Istanbul, Aysoltan continues to develop her expertise through UNDP’s Future Skills Academy. This dynamic initiative, launched in August 2025 in collaboration with the UNDP Knowledge Project under the Country Component for Turkmenistan of the regional project, funded by the Government of Japan and implemented by UNDP in partnership with the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Population of Turkmenistan, offers youth across Turkmenistan access to high-quality, future-focused online courses on Coursera platform. The courses are designed to equip young people with the in-demand skills needed in today’s competitive job market. Aysoltan is currently enrolled in the IBM AI Engineering course, along with other programmes in digital literacy, programming, and professional development. Through this comprehensive learning journey, Aysoltan is not only strengthening her digital competencies and cultivating innovation but also preparing to grow into a highly skilled Web Developer capable of leading teams and driving impactful projects. As part of her experience with the Future Skills Academy and the Future Skills Sprint, she is taking courses in Cyber-Physical Systems with a focus on Biomedical Electronics and the IBM AI Engineering course, all of which support her long-term goal of taking on larger projects and advancing her career in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.The first Future Skills Academy has already proven successful, with over 1,000 young people and women completing the first cohort. The second round continues to empower youth like Aysoltan, enhancing their employability, resilience, and meaningful participation in society. Aysoltan’s dedication not only reflects personal ambition but also highlights the potential of Turkmen youth to drive technological innovation and contribute to social progress.“Every new skill I learn gives me more confidence to try new things. I feel ready to take on challenges, explore ideas, and use what I know to make a difference.”Aysoltan’s journey underscores the transformative power of youth-driven innovation. Through initiatives like the Future Skills Sprint and the Future Skills Academy, UNDP is helping young people around the world bridge the digital divide, build in-demand skills, and contribute to sustainable, inclusive development. Her story is a testament to how investing in youth today will create the leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers of tomorrow.