The international conference “TESOL: Technology, Teaching, and Transformation” opened in Ashgabat on Tuesday, bringing together 250 English language teachers from across Turkmenistan. The event was organized within the framework of the English Language Capacity Development Program (ELCD) with support from the U.S. Embassy.
Hosted at the International University for the Humanities and Development, the conference was arranged by TESOL International Association and QED Group, LLC. Its main objective is to provide Turkmen educators with access to modern innovations, strategies, and global trends in English language teaching, while also serving as a platform for professional exchange.
Over the three-day program, participants are attending sessions led by six American and five Turkmen experts, including recognized specialists such as Dr. Beth Clark-Gareca, Dr. Manuel Gómez Portillo, Heidi Faust, Tamrika Khvtisiashvili and Lisa Mann. They are sharing knowledge on technology integration, interactive teaching methods, and curriculum development. Their participation highlights the increasing expertise of local teachers and their readiness to adopt innovative approaches. Topics covered include creating “speaking classrooms,” improving communicative competence, and using technology in education.
Beyond offering practical tools, the TESOL conference promotes international cooperation and paves the way for introducing new technologies into teaching—an essential step in today’s digitalized world. Such initiatives enhance teacher qualifications and improve learning quality, preparing future generations for successful global engagement.
English proficiency today is more than a skill—it is a necessity for professional and personal development. As the universal language of science, technology, business, and diplomacy, strong language education is vital for any nation aiming for global competitiveness. Conferences like this play a key role in training future specialists capable of thriving on the international stage.
