«The Pearl of Central Asia»: Turkmenistan Culture Day Celebrated at KBSU

Turkmenistan Culture Day was held at the Higher School of International Education at Kabardino-Balkarian State University named after Kh.M. Berbekov. Organizers and participants immersed guests in the unique world of this ancient country, introducing them to its traditions, music, dance, and rich cuisine.

Asiyat Zhurtova, Director of the Higher School of International Education at KBSU, addressed the audience with a welcoming speech, emphasizing the importance of such meetings for strengthening friendship and mutual understanding between students from different countries.

«Today, 1,249 students from Turkmenistan are studying at KBSU. This is a country with deep traditions and a unique culture. Our students have prepared a truly special celebration to introduce us to their customs and share the soul of their people. Let’s support these students, because for them, this is an opportunity to talk about what’s most precious to them—their home,» noted Asiyat Zhurtova.

A presentation about Turkmenistan was prepared for the guests of the event. The screen alternated between white-marble Ashgabat and the vast expanses of the Karakum Desert. Viewers learned interesting facts about the country: its population exceeds 6.5 million, and Independence Day is celebrated on September 27th.

The highlight of the evening was the concert program. Songs in their native language were performed by GSOM students Bazar Khaitov and Baimyrat Atanyazov. Then, dancers took the stage: the fiery «Kyush Tepti» performed by Eldar Guseinov, Nabat Razmanova, Makhriban Kausova, Gulzada Merelova, and Enverhodzhe Khudaiberdieva drew a storm of applause. A poetry section created a special atmosphere: student Ainur Rozyeva recited a poem about Turkmenistan, filled with love for her homeland.

The event wasn’t limited to the stage program. Guests had the opportunity to express themselves through interactive activities. The students enthusiastically participated in the national game «Yalyk Bokdi,» which revealed the bravest and most agile. Then came the belt game: two teams tested their strength and teamwork. The fairer sex was invited to a master class on Turkmen braiding—a traditional art passed down from generation to generation.

Tables with refreshments were also set up. Everyone could sample the Turkmen dishes the students had prepared themselves.

«Today we made borek—Turkmen dumplings. Also on the table was the national dish dorama—finely chopped meat with flatbread, served with broth. We also made pilaf, samsa with meat, and «okroshka Turkmen style»—a salad with chekiz, a fermented milk product similar to ayran,» said GSOM student Ainur Amangeldieva.

A vibrant touch to the celebration was the students’ national costumes. Many proudly wear traditional clothing not only on special occasions but also on weekdays. Students bring embroidered dresses and skullcaps from home. On any given day, they can appear in their national attire for lectures, becoming a true addition to the international KBSU family.