UNICEF and Ministry of Education Strengthen Climate-Resilient Education with Solar Energy Installation in Rural School

02 February 2026 — UNICEF, in partnership with the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan, has supported the installation of a solar photovoltaic (PV) power system at School No. 33 in Nurly Zaman village, Ahal velayat, helping ensure clean and uninterrupted essential services for children and teachers.

The system installed at School No. 33 operates water pumps for school water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities using solar energy, reducing reliance on conventional power and supporting the transition to green energy in public facilities. Stored solar energy also ensures continued operation of pumps and lighting in the event of power disruptions, providing uninterrupted WASH services for 305 schoolchildren and 35 staff. 

The installation was implemented within the framework of the joint Green School Programme of the Ministry of Education and UNICEF and is designed to promote the use of green energy in schools, strengthening the resilience of school infrastructure and ensuring that the education process remains uninterrupted in the event of emergencies.

The installed system includes 62 monocrystalline solar panels with a total capacity of approximately 36 kW, supported by lithium battery storage and hybrid inverters. The installed equipment was tested, and commissioned in line with technical and safety standards, and school staff received training to ensure safe and sustainable operation. 

The initiative directly contributes to SDGs 6, 7 and 13 to national priorities set out in the National Strategy of Turkmenistan on Climate Change and National Strategy for the Development of Renewable Energy of Turkmenistan until 2030, and supports the creation of clean and resilient learning environments for children, a core dimension of the Green School Programme.

On 29 January 2026, representatives from UNICEF, the Ministry of Education and Hyakimlik of Ahal velayat conducted a joint site visit to the school, demonstrating how strategic investments can enhance climate-resilient public infrastructure. 

UNICEF remains committed to continue working with the Government of Turkmenistan to strengthen education systems and protect children’s learning environments through innovative, sustainable, and climate-resilient approaches.