The Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan, in partnership with UNICEF, launched a new curriculum and methodological guide on climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction for preschool educational institutions. This milestone initiative marks an important step in advancing climate change education within the national system just as the new school year begins.

The new pedagogical resources are designed to help preschool teachers introduce young children to basic concepts of climate change, adaptation, and environmental care through play-based and age-appropriate methods. From observing the weather and saving water to caring for plants and discovering the trees and vegetation native to Turkmenistan, the curriculum fosters respect for nature while building practical skills for resilience from the earliest years. It also introduces simple concepts of renewable energy, such as solar power, inspiring curiosity about sustainable solutions.

The launch event brought together 36 professionals from the Ministry of Education, the National Institute of Education, institutions of higher education, pedagogical schools, and preschools from all velayats, and cities of Ashgabat and Arkadag. Participants engaged in interactive sessions, discussed practical applications, and tested classroom activities from the manual. A ceremonial handover of the methodological manual to the Ministry of Education marked the highlight of the day.

“This new preschool curriculum demonstrates Turkmenistan’s proactive approach to building climate-resilient communities” said Alexandru Nartea, UNICEF Deputy Representative in Turkmenistan. “By starting climate and disaster preparedness education at the earliest age, we are empowering children and their teachers to foster a lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship and resilience.”

The development of the preschool curriculum builds on Turkmenistan’s earlier achievements in integrating climate change topics in primary and secondary education. With UNICEF’s technical support and the leadership of the Ministry of Education and the National Institute of Education, the country is now completing a continuum of climate education from preschool to secondary levels.

As the new school year begins, teachers will apply the updated curriculum in preschools and schools across the country, helping children develop their knowledge, habits, and values needed to grow into active contributors to a sustainable future.