2009 Alumni Reunion – Exchange Alumni Discuss Regional Education in Turkmenistan

Deputy Chief of Mission Sylvia Curran emphasizes importance of alumni in their communities

A group photo

The U.S. Embassy in Turkmenistan held its annual Exchange Alumni Reunion in Ashgabat on August 8-9.  Over 60 alumni of various U.S. Government exchange programs gathered to discuss education development in rural parts of Turkmenistan.  The reunion, entitled “Remember Who You Are – Make a Change in Your Community”, explored ways to use alumni knowledge, skills, and attributes to improve education in rural communities.

In her opening remarks, Deputy Chief of Mission Sylvia Curran emphasized how the unique skills and cross-cultural experiences gained during their exchange programs should help alumni become community leaders.  She also emphasized that leaders should use their knowledge to work to strengthen their communities and the rural communities of Turkmenistan.

The reunion included a series of presentations and workshops on several topics including community service, grant writing skills, and internet use in rural areas.  Alumni from programs as diverse as FLEX, JFPD, UGRAD, and Fulbright shared their successes and challenges as they’ve worked to implement an assortment of grant projects.

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