On September 19, 2025, the Adult Education Association of Tajikistan (AEAT), with support from DVV International in Tajikistan, hosted “Dushanbe Evenings” as part of the project “Promoting Adult Learning and Education in Asia.”
The theme — “Adult Education as a Path to Mutual Understanding and Development: Cooperation for Change” — highlighted the strategic role of lifelong learning in strengthening human capital and fostering sustainable interregional connections.
Why it matters
Central Asia faces a rising need for inclusive and flexible adult education. The event aligned with the Marrakesh Framework for Action (2022) and supported SDG 4.6, which focuses on expanding adults’ access to learning opportunities and skills.
Who took part
The meeting brought together experts and organizations from Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, including the Kyrgyz Adult Education Association (KAEA) and the Association for the Development of Education in Kyrgyzstan (ADEK).
Highlights included:
- AEAT’s priorities: digitalization, innovative methods (Curriculum globALE), and professional development for adult educators.
- KAEA’s experience of uniting 16 regional learning centers and organizing Adult Education Festivals.
- ADEK’s focus on digital skills, inclusivity, and quality research.
Key outcome
AEAT and KAEA signed cooperation agreements that will enable:
- joint program development;
- exchange of methods and best practices;
- interregional research and quality monitoring;
- joint advocacy in adult education at regional and international levels.
Voices from the event
“This is the starting point for a sustainable regional alliance in adult education.” — Jamshed Kuddusov, AEAT
“Adult education is a bridge between cultures and economies.” — Zarrina Khalikova, DVV International in Tajikistan
Future Outlook
The partnership will advance comparative research, stronger policy advocacy, and active participation in global forums. “Dushanbe Evenings” showcased the potential of regional collaboration and strengthened the foundations for a common educational space in Central Asia built on inclusivity, quality, and lifelong learning.