Freedom 250: Exploring American History, Culture, and Connections in Turkmenistan

As the United States celebrates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, C5+O.N.E. (Opening Networks Through English) Program Cohort 6 and 7 participants in Turkmenistan are celebrating Freedom 250 through interactive activities that combine English-language learning with the exploration of U.S. history, geography, and culture.

From lively classroom debates and fast-paced trivia competitions to the exciting Interactive Map Dash, participants tested their knowledge of American history and geography and strengthened their English through teamwork and friendly competition.

Watch how the Freedom 250 brought participants together to discover the United States in an engaging and memorable way while building language skills, cultural understanding, and lasting connections.

C5+O.N.E. Program Launches Seventh Cohort, Expanding English for the Economy Across Central Asia

July 9, 2026 – Today, the C5+O.N.E. (Opening Networks Through English) Program has officially launched its seventh cohort, bringing together over 400 government, private sector, civil society, and media professionals from across Central Asia. Funded by the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs of the U.S. Department of State and implemented by the American Councils for International Education, the program strengthens English proficiency across the region to support deeper integration, enhance professional collaboration, and expand economic ties with the United States.

Representing all countries of Central Asia, Cohort 7 participants bring expertise from key sectors such as agriculture, banking and finance, information technology, entrepreneurship, and energy. Through the program’s “English for the Economy” curriculum, participants will strengthen their professional English skills, engage with American experts, and build lasting cross-border networks across Central Asia and the United States. They will also become part of a vibrant alumni network of more than 2,200 professionals who have completed the program since its launch.

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C5+O.N.E. program celebrated the graduation of Cohort 5

On June 7, 2026, in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, the C5+O.N.E. (Opening Networks Through English) program celebrated the graduation of 55 Cohort 5 participants, marking the successful completion of nine months of intensive professional English language training, practical learning opportunities, and cross-sector networking.

The event brought together distinguished guests, including Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs Sarah Rogers, U.S. Ambassador to Turkmenistan Elizabeth Rood, representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, and colleagues from the U.S. Embassy in Ashgabat.

In her remarks, Under Secretary Rogers highlighted the importance of English as a powerful tool for communication, professional growth, and global engagement, emphasizing its role in creating opportunities and connecting people across cultures and borders.

“I’m really delighted by the C5+O.N.E. program which extends to you one of the great planks of American culture which is the English language.”

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