Paris, France — October 22, 2025.
A representative of the Innovation Information Center of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan took part in the 10th Session of the Committee of the Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications concerning Higher Education in the European Region (Lisbon Recognition Convention), held on 22 October 2025 at the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris under the joint auspices of UNESCO and the Council of Europe.
The meeting brought together representatives of ministries of education, national information centres, and international organizations from across the European Region to review progress in implementing the Lisbon Recognition Convention and to exchange views on strengthening international cooperation in higher education. The Convention, adopted in 1997, serves as the principal legal instrument in the European Region promoting the fair and transparent recognition of diplomas, degrees, and study periods, and plays a key role in facilitating academic and professional mobility. Turkmenistan’s participation in the session builds on its accession to the Convention in 2022 and reflects the country’s ongoing commitment to aligning its national education system with international standards.
Throughout the discussions, delegates examined the updated Code of Good Practice in the Provision of Transnational Education, the draft workplan of the Bureau for 2025–2028, and the progress achieved through initiatives such as the European Qualifications Passport for Refugees and the UNESCO Qualifications Passport. Special attention was given to the opportunities and challenges associated with the growing use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in automating qualification recognition and verifying the authenticity of academic credentials. The exchanges underscored the importance of transparency, ethical responsibility, and quality assurance in the use of such technologies.
The Committee also reviewed developments within the ENIC and NARIC Networks and the ongoing work toward the implementation of the Global Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications concerning Higher Education, which aims to ensure compatibility and cooperation among regional recognition frameworks. The discussions reaffirmed the shared commitment of participating states to improving trust and interoperability in higher education systems and promoting inclusive, equitable access to academic mobility.
Turkmenistan’s participation in the session represents another step in enhancing collaboration with international partners in the field of higher education recognition. As the National Information Centre designated under the Presidential Decree of 28 March 2023, the Innovation Information Center continues to carry out its mandate under the Lisbon Recognition Convention — providing information on national and foreign qualifications, supporting transparent evaluation procedures, and fostering cooperation through the ENIC/NARIC Networks. These activities contribute to the modernization of Turkmenistan’s education system, strengthening human capital, and promoting the international visibility and credibility of national qualifications.
The 10th Session concluded with the adoption of the Bureau’s new workplan and a renewed commitment by all parties to deepen cooperation, share expertise, and jointly advance recognition practices in line with evolving educational and technological landscapes.