On May 26-27, the fourth cohort of the regional English language program C5+O.N.E. (Opening Networks through English) commenced in the Turkmenistan capital of Ashgabat. The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs sponsors and the American Councils for International Education implements this program. C5+O.N.E. brings together early career and experienced professionals from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.

The program aims to strengthen professional skills and promote regional cooperation in Central Asia through English language learning and networking. This year the program focuses on economic development. Participants include representatives from government agencies, private sector, and non-profit organizations. Classes are provided to all participants in the program free
of charge.

In Turkmenistan, more than 120 people have joined the program, forming eight study groups. In total, Turkmen representatives from 30 organizations participate, highlighting the cross-sectional nature of the initiative. In addition to language classes, C5+O.N.E. includes national and regional workshops and conferences. These events help participants build professional networks, gain access to information and new opportunities, and support ongoing collaboration between young professionals and leaders in the region and the United States.

The launch of the fourth cohort in Ashgabat shows a shared commitment to dialogue, knowledge exchange, and cooperation between Central Asian countries and the United States.