On the 15th of April, the opening ceremony of the UNESCO department Sanly ylym (Digital science) was held at the International science and technology park of the academy of sciences of Turkmenistan.
The festive tone of the event was enhanced by an exhibition showcasing scientific achievements, projects to digitalise sectors of the national economy, innovative developments by young scientists, and archaeological finds.
The tour of the exhibition was accompanied by performances by a folk group.The ceremony was attended by the Executive secretary of the National commission of Turkmenistan for UNESCO, Hero of Turkmenistan Chynar Rustemova, and heads of higher education institutions, directors of research institutes, renowned scientists and young specialists.
Addressing the gathering, Chynar Rustemova noted that, thanks to the forward-looking policies of the National Leader of the Turkmen People, Hero-Arkadag, and the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, the modernisation of science and education is taking on a qualitatively new meaning.
It was emphasised that deepening the partnership with UNESCO in the field of digital technologies is a strategic priority for the country.In his speech, President of the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan Allaberdi Ashyrov emphasised the historical significance of establishment of the department, calling the project a direct result of the state strategy for implementing innovation.
The topic of practical application of the new structure was developed by the director of the International science and technology park of the AST, Durdymyrat Gadamov.He described the department as a key link in digital interaction, aimed at implementing developments in the real sector of the economy, including projects in the field of artificial intelligence, big data analysis, as well as the use of geospatial technologies and satellite monitoring systems for the rational management of natural resources and the development of the agro-industrial complex.
The department will be led by Nikolay Nikolayev, a national expert in geographic information systems (GIS) and land cadastre automation, who has extensive experience collaborating with the FAO.The new intellectual platform was established within the framework of UNITWIN programme of the UNESCO, which unites more than 1100 specialised structures worldwide.
It complements the network of departments operating in the country at the Turkmen state university named after Magtymguly and the Turkmen state pedagogical institute named after Seyitnazar Seydi.This initiative is fully consistent with Medium-term strategy of the UNESCO for 20222029 and international principles of the ethics of artificial intelligence and open science.
Joining the international UNITWIN network will open up extensive opportunities for young scientists, allowing them to participate in world-class scientific research in the field of geospatial data and artificial intelligence technologies.
Ceremony participants expressed deep gratitude to the leadership of the country for creating conditions for world-class education, noting that the new department will become the foundation for the professional growth of young people and the further strengthening of international scientific authority of the Turkmenistan.