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.”
She also encouraged participants to remain connected and continue building on the relationships formed through the program:
“What America is really good at is at picking the very best people for our people-to-people exchange programs and fellowships. And the people that we pick, that’s you, often go on to do great things. And so please exchange contact information and remain part of this network that you’ve joined here today, because English shouldn’t just connect you with others in this room. It will connect you with companies, it will connect you with Americans and others around the world.”
One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of participants’ final projects, showcasing their innovative ideas and practical solutions informed by research, professional expertise, and the thoughtful use of modern technologies and AI-enabled tools. Under Secretary Rogers and Ambassador Rood served as members of the evaluation panel, engaging directly with participants and providing valuable feedback on their presentations.
The event also introduced graduates to future opportunities available through the growing C5+O.N.E. alumni network, including the upcoming Regional Conference and the Participant-Led Initiatives Support Component (PLISC), which enables alumni to transform ideas into collaborative projects with meaningful impact in their communities and professional sectors.
Throughout the event, participants and classroom teachers shared heartfelt reflections on their journeys, highlighting not only stronger English skills, but also increased confidence, expanded professional networks, and a renewed belief in their ability to contribute, lead, and create positive change. For many, C5+O.N.E. became much more than an English language program, but a platform for growth, connection, and opportunity.
As they join a growing alumni network of more than 200 professionals in Turkmenistan and over 1,200 across Central Asia, Cohort 5 graduates become part of a regional community of emerging leaders and professionals prepared to collaborate across sectors and borders, contribute to shared prosperity, and strengthen connections throughout the region and with the United States.