On February 7, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov has held video conference working session with participation of some members of the Government, heads of cultural and mass media sphere, profile departments, directors of universities. Outcomes of work on development cultural sphere and mass media in the last year have been reviewed and future objectives have been specified at the session. 

First, Minister of Culture A. Shamyradov has informed in his report on the outcomes of activity of facilities under the Ministry that integrated work has been carried out last year for strengthening of equipment and facility base and promotion of digitization, improvement of professional level of art personnel, making of modern meaningful and highly creative works.

According to the program of development of cultural sphere in Turkmenistan in 2020 – 2025, which was initiated by President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, the work for improvement of activity of theatres, cinema and concert centers, libraries, museums, art schools, cultural centers, state historical and cultural reserves is continued. 

Concert of art masters, exhibitions of visual, decorative and applied arts, museum values, photo expositions, art meetings, festivals, contests and conference have been held in the last year including in video conference format.

Work for preparation of documents for inclusion of national values of the world significance to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List has been carried out in the period under review. It includes documentation and video demonstrating the process of making dutar and features of playing this musical instrument.

In addition, gathering of necessary information for inclusion of the culture of breeding and coaching of ahalteke horses to the UNESCO List has been made. At present time, relative organizational activity is carried out for inclusion of national practice of breeding of Turkmen shepherd dog to this List is performed. 

Having listened to the report and noted that big work is carried out in the country for development of national culture, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov expressed discontent with measures taken in this direction.

The head of the state has focused that the Ministry of Culture and heads of profile educational facilities are directly responsible for provision of the graduates of this institute with work according to their education. 

Having noted bad organization of activity of children art schools and art schools in various parts of the country and number of deficiencies admitted in this activity, the leader of the nation has requested to review educational plans. 

In addition, the President of Turkmenistan highlighted that new stage plays about current success and happy life of people are not demonstrated in cultural centers and theatres, which is a result of low level of theatre directing work and artistry of works.

The activity on study, popularization and protection of spiritual and cultural heritage of people for future generation is not organized properly, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov highlighted. 

Work for finding of new talents, organization of art contests is not performed sufficiently. In addition, despite inclusion of local libraries to single informational system, there are disruptions in their work, the head of the state noted, having demanded the minister to make relative conclusions.

Further, the floor was given to Chairman of the State Committee for Television, Radio Broadcasting and Cinematography A. Ashyrov.

During the reporting period, national television and radio channels promptly covered the events taking place in the country. Concerts, television films, essays, round-table programs, literary and political compositions, stage videos, as well as international conversations in an online format have been broadcasted

According to the instructions of the head of state Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, measures have been taken to achieve high quality television and radio broadcasts, their preparation taking into account national characteristics as well as the organization of work to widely promote the glorious history and cultural heritage of our people.

Appropriate steps are being taken to enhance international cooperation, including wide coverage of the achievements of Turkmenistan over the years of independence on TV channels of other countries, organization of online seminars for Turkmen specialists under the agreements with foreign TV and radio channels, development of national journalism and study of international experience in the field of digital system, preparation of meaningful programs.

The videos made in honor of the 25th anniversary of the permanent neutrality of Turkmenistan have gained great popularity on the Internet network of the information group of the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union.

The head of the Committee also reported to the leader of the nation Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov that preparations for a wide celebration of the 30th anniversary of the country's independence in the Year of "Turkmenistan - Home of Peace and Trust" have been started.

Having listened to the report, the head of state focused on the issues of training highly qualified specialists and studying the best world experience in the field of television and radio broadcasting.

To attract public attention, journalists, cultural and ideological workers must have knowledge and erudition, be aware of world trends in all areas, think and work in a new way and be guided by the requirements of the times, the leader of the nation said. In this regard, measures should be taken for further expansion of international contacts.

Currently, the international mass media pay great importance to the development of digital technologies and electronic publications. This is important for the prompt placement of various information in the global informational field, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov summed up and gave specific instructions in this direction.

Then the chairman of the Turkmen State Publishing Service A. Hudayberdiev reported on the results of the work carried out in 2020.

For the reporting period, the production and service plan was fulfilled by 108.9 percent.  During the past year, 367 types of book, out of which 156 are textbooks, were published.  The Galkynyş Book Center has provided libraries with 31 book titles.

In accordance with the instruction of the President of Turkmenistan on the transition to a digital system and the widespread use of its capabilities, the website of the Turkmen State Publishing Service metbugat.gov.tm was created, where electronic versions of 25 newspapers and 7 magazines are currently placed.

In 2020, the Türkmenmetbugat website and its mobile application, which includes electronic versions of 19 newspapers and 7 magazines published in the country, were launched.

The latest programs based on digital technologies, which ensure high quality of products and the execution of work on time, have been introduced into the printing industry by the House of Printing,

In order to move the industry to digital workflow, an internal network system that unites production and creative structures has been created.

Summarizing the report, Head of the State Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov pointed out the need of further improvement of the activities of this Service based on the active introduction of advanced technologies, the wide use of the potential of Internet resources, and the study of the best world experience in this area.

Emphasizing that this year, passing under the slogan "Turkmenistan - Home of Peace and Trust" would be marked with the 30th anniversary of the country's independence, the leader of the nation gave specific instructions to highlight this glorious date and other significant events in the life of the Motherland.

Then the floor was given to the chairman of the State News Agency - TDH - B.Amansaryev.

The head of TDH reported on the ongoing work for promotion of the domestic and foreign policy of President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov.  Daily covering the main events of the social and political, economic and cultural life of the country, publishing review and analytical materials, the Agency provides news information to the domestic media including electronic publications.

The TDH websites "Turkmenistan Today" and "Turkmenistan: The Golden Age" in Turkmen, English and Russian languages post messages, videos and photo reports, which are under great attention of the international Internet audience.

Active coverage of significant events related to the 30th anniversary of the independence of the Motherland is one of the key tasks of the Agency this year.  The widespread use of modern technologies makes it possible to disseminate news on the achievements of independent neutral Turkmenistan in various fields and industries as well as on the implementation of large industrial, transport, social and humanitarian projects on the global network rapidly.

The development of cooperation in the exchange of information with international and national news agencies, major publications, foreign creative and public organizations is an important aspect of TDH's activities.

According to the instructions of the leader of the nation, measures are being taken on a systematic basis to digitalize the activities of the State News Agency of Turkmenistan.

Having listened to the report, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov addressed a number of specific instructions to the TDH chairman.

It was that successes in the implementation of the neutrality-based foreign policy strategy of the Turkmen state, including the key aspects, goals and objectives of transport, energy and water diplomacy, which are put forward in these areas by the country's initiatives, should receive wide coverage in the world media space.

Materials about political, economic, social and cultural development of the country have to be actively spread through international channels.  It is also necessary to prepare a series of articles on the results of democratic transformations and social and economic reforms during the years of independence.

Active interaction between Turkmenistan and other countries in the information sphere opens up new opportunities for studying the best world experience using advanced technologies and implementing joint projects, increasing professional level in the country's journalistic environment, leader of the nation Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov said.

Then, the rector of the Turkmen State Institute of Culture A. Aydogdyev reported on the results of the work over the past year and on the plan of activities foreseen for the 2020-2021 academic year.

As part of the development of national culture and its popularization in the world, scientific and creative events are held at the institute.  In accordance with the Concept for the Development of Digital Education in Turkmenistan, a digital educational portal and website have been created.  For successful completion of the tasks set in the Program for the Development of the Sphere of Culture in Turkmenistan for 2019-2025 are carried out, educational plans and programs are being constantly improved.

Students undergo practical training in specialized institutions, graduates, on the basis of the approved plan, are sent to work in the relevant industry departments.  Measures are being taken to expand international interaction, students actively participate in creative competitions and subject contests.

Meetings and master classes were organized under international cooperation in the period under review in video conference format.

Having listened to the report, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov emphasized that a solid material and technical base of the cultural sphere has been created in the country and today, it is important to use all its potential.  The effectiveness of this work depends on the professional training of young people.

It is necessary to use digital technologies, advanced teaching methods, including the possibilities of libraries, theatres and museums, other cultural centres located in modern buildings in educational process in order to popularize the spiritual values and glorious history of the Turkmen people.

The head of state stressed the importance of an integrated and responsible approach to providing of work for young people who graduate from the institute.  In this context, an order was given to train specialists in accordance with the time requirements and changing conditions as well as to make significant changes in the curriculum and specialties.

Along with this, it is necessary to continue activities to strengthen cultural contacts with other states of the region and the world, identify talented students who are able to adequately represent Turkmenistan in international creative competitions, online contests and shows, the leader of the nation noted, having addressed a number of instructions to the rector.

President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov noted the importance of creating all conditions so that having studied the national heritage and spiritual values created by the people on a scientific basis, the student youth conduct research that reveals their meaning and content.  Students of the institute should make a worthy contribution to the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the country's independence at a high level, to carry out the necessary work to solve set objectives.

Further, the rector of the State Academy of Arts A. Nuvvaev made a report on the work done over the past year.

It was reported that the university prepares specialists for cultural institutions in 16 areas of fine arts.

In accordance with the Concept for the Development of Digital Education in Turkmenistan, initiated by the leader of the nation, a digital educational portal and website have been created at the academy.  It contains extensive information about the university's museum and library, educational and creative works, social events and the Centre of Young Scientists.

In 2020, the students of the Academy took part in the design of the facade of the facilities of the 16th stage of the urban development of the capital, which were put into operation on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the neutrality of the Motherland, and the development of decor projects dedicated to the Independence Day.

For the current year, which is held under the slogan "Turkmenistan - Home of Peace and Trust", the work plan of the Academy envisages the participation of students in numerous competitions, exhibitions, scientific and practical conferences timed to significant dates, etc.

Having listened to the report, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov noted the importance of more active involvement of teachers and students of this university in the work on the architectural solution of social and cultural facilities being built in the country today, their internal and external design.

In the last years, the design art has been replenished with new methods, the leader of the nation noted emphasizing the need to make conditions for improving the abilities of students of the State Academic Art Theatre in the design art in the light of modern trends, as well as for them to master world practice and scientific achievements.

Following the tasks for the development of the digital economy, it is necessary to continue studying issues related to the introduction of new specialties in a creative university in the most demanded areas, to improve teaching methods, the head of state stated.

Specific instructions were related to the participation of students of the State Art Theatre and creative workers in specialized international competitions and shows using the capabilities of the digital system, which would be very important in the popularization of national culture.

It is necessary to hold meetings of students with famous sculptors, painters, jewellers and other creative figures on regular basis, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov said stressing that in order to consolidate the theory in practice, they should take part in the creation of sculptures and other works of art as well as in the design of the facilities being built.

Solving the objectives set in the year of the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the independence of the Motherland, it is necessary to rely on modern practice and digital technologies, the head of state noted.

Further, the rector of Maya Kuliyeva Turkmen National Conservatory R. Amangeldiev has reported on the work carried out by the university to train highly professional specialists in the field of musical art and its wide popularization.

Music, song and highly artistic literary works created by the talent of the leader of the nation are an exemplary school for teachers and students.

According to the Concept for the Development of Digital Education, TNC has created a digital educational portal and website.  Carrying out the instructions of the leader of the nation Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, online concerts and master classes were held at the international level, teachers and students of the university regularly take part in concerts and television programs in honour of the glorious holidays.  Students undergo practical training in musical educational institutions in their specialties.

The Museum of the Hero of Turkmenistan Maya Kuliyeva, opened in TNC at the request of the head of state, is very important in the education of future musicians.  The best traditions of mentoring are continued in the joint participation of teachers and students of the university in opera performances revived on the Turkmen stage at the initiative of the leader of the nation.

The university systematically conducts scientific work on the study of Turkmen musical art, guides to the world of which are the wonderful works of the head of state "Bakhshys - harbingers of national happiness" and "Music of peace, music of friendship and brotherhood."

Following the tasks set by the President of Turkmenistan at the working meeting held on December 23, 2020, relevant works have been planned.

After listening to the report, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov stressed that the activities of the Conservatory should be aimed at enriching the magnificent musical works created by the masters and composing modern melodies through studying the rich cultural heritage and history of national art as well as at the training excellent specialists.

Currently, there is a shortage of specialists in piano tuning, the head of state noted ordering to take program measures to train profile specialists, to ensure online participation and successful performance of young musicians and composers at international competitions.

It is necessary to hold meetings of students with musicians and composers, to create conditions for graduates of the conservatory to make a significant contribution to identifying young talents in the development of mentoring traditions.

Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers M. Mammedova reported on the work done over the past year in subordinate structures, further improvement of the activities of cultural institutions and mass media.

All conditions are being made for the development of national culture, art and literature, careful preservation of material and intangible heritage for future generations, the creative work of the art personnel and creation of new highly artistic works.

The material and technical base of the specialized sphere is systematically strengthened using the capabilities of the digital system.  International cooperation is increasing, celebrations are held at a high level in honour of national holidays and significant dates.

The measures for improvement of domestic journalism, enhancement of professional level of media professionals, the quality of broadcast television and radio broadcasts, articles, as well as structural modernization of the editorial offices of newspapers and magazines, their translation into electronic format have been taken for the period under review.  The work for enhancement of the quality of Turkmen cinema and production of modern films is carried out.

At present, cultural workers in cooperation with the relevant ministries, profile departments and administrations prepare to hold the glorious 30th anniversary of independence at a high organizational level and study the best world practice in organization of large celebrations.

Summing up the report, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov stated that Turkmenistan has accumulated a lot of experience in holding large-scale celebrations and daily cultural work.  The conditions created by the state contribute to the enrichment of the original cultural traditions, which today are filled with new content.

The realities of the time and the achievement of technical progress require the search for modern solutions subordinating them to the goals of the country's development, educational activities, stimulating young people to creative activity, studying the national heritage, spiritual growth, the head of state said giving specific instructions to the vice-premier.

Brining of the Motherland into a number of industrially developed states of the world, the increase of its international authority are among the priorities, the Turkmen leader continued stressing special role of representatives of the cultural and mass media sphere in the implementation of these tasks.

Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers G. Mushshikov reported to President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov on the financial and economic condition of structures under cultural sphere and in this context - on the implementation of the relevant instructions given by the head of state.

After hearing the report, the head of the Turkmen state emphasized the need for a systematic analysis of the financing of institutions in the above-mentioned sphere in order to timely address the issues of modernizing its equipment and facility base, transit to digital system and active implementation of advanced technologies.

Summing up the results of the working meeting, the leader of the nation stated that the country has done a lot of work to develop the national culture, which has contributed to the achievement of great success in this direction over the years of independence.  Nevertheless, there are many things to do and work hard to improve national cultural sphere.

It is important to make full use of all the opportunities available in this area.  President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov instructed to implement the digital system relying on the latest scientific achievements of technologies.  Choosing the most effective methods of work organization, it is necessary to apply them in work of profile institutions and enterprises attracting foreign investments, the head of state said giving specific instructions to the participants of the meeting.

Addressing the Minister of Culture A. Shamyradov, the President of Turkmenistan ordered to take urgent measures for the further development of the cultural sphere on the threshold of the glorious 30th anniversary of the independence of the Motherland.

Making deep studies of national cultural heritage, traditions and customs, it is required to pay increased attention to their new content and introduction to the people.  Intensification of work on the restoration and protection of historical and cultural monuments is among important objectives.

Systematically improving the activities of cultural and art sphere, it is necessary to improve the qualifications of employees of these organizations.

Turkmen leader Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov addressed the Minister with instructions for wide popularization of national culture and its priceless heritage, historical and cultural monuments, classic works of folk art and our great compatriots, traditions and customs in the world.

Speaking of the development of librarianship, the head of state ordered to continue work aimed at replenishing the information base and funds of electronic libraries, to expand the digital services they provide.

The leader of the nation also instructed the Ministry of Culture, together with the State Committee on Television, Radio Broadcasting and Cinematography, to prepare modern, interesting and high-quality films of a national character for the viewers.

In terms of organizing the activities of industry institutions and enterprises, it was requested to analyse their expenses reducing unnecessary expenses and increasing the number of paid services.

Having ordered to continue the work on introduction of the world community with the intangible cultural heritage of the Turkmen people, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov gave the Minister specific instructions to intensify cooperation with competent structures, especially with UNESCO.

Speaking about the shortcomings noted recently in cultural sphere, the head of state emphasized the importance of work on restoration of the pages of the richest history of our country, study of the ancient heritage and national culture.  Activity of such famous scientists as V. Masson and V. Sarianidi, who made a significant contribution to such an important cause, is a good example for us, the President of Turkmenistan emphasized.

The leader of the nation continued that we have celebrated the 25th anniversary of the permanent neutrality of our sovereign state last year, however, no significant cultural events were organized on this occasion. The situation with the material and technical base and human resources of specialized institutions is bad.

In this regard, President Gurbanguly announced a severe reprimand to the Minister of Culture A. Shamyradov Berdimuhamedov for the serious deficiencies admitted in his work with the last warning about correcting the shortcomings in the shortest possible time.

Further, addressing the chairman of the State Committee on Television, Radio Broadcasting and Cinematography, the heads of television and radio channels, the leader of the nation has ordered to broadcast high quality programs dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the independence of the Motherland on regular basis.  For this purpose, it is necessary to involve actively highly professional facilitators and continue to work on the "mentor-apprentice" principle.

The leader of the nation pointed to the importance of wide coverage of the achievements and transformations of the Motherland in the world over the years of independence, preparation of video presentations, feature films, television and documentaries among the main objectives.  It is also necessary to continue work on improving the quality of programs broadcasted on TV and radio channels, training qualified personnel, organizing methodological seminars for them.

President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov has also ordered to maintain strict control over the observance of the norms of the literary Turkmen language and culture of speech on television and radio channels as well as to increase the responsibility of editors for materials broadcasted.

The head of state instructed the Oguz Khan Türkmenfilm Association to increase the production of modern movies and documentaries.

Speaking of the modernization of the facility and equipment base of the State Committee, the leader of the nation ordered to take measures for its gradual transition to self-sustainable format.

The President of Turkmenistan gave instructions to the head of the publishing service to monitor the quality and content of newspapers and magazines published in the country on permanent basis and to expand online subscription services.

Focusing on the issues of publishing and distributing book products in the year of the anniversary of the independence of the Motherland, the head of state Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov pointed out the need to provide secondary and higher educational institutions with books and manuals in sufficient volume, increase the production of fiction books, including for children, as well as provision of control of the quality of printed  products.

Noting the importance of modernization of the material and technical base of production enterprises of the publishing service, the leader of the nation ordered to analyse the prices of purchased paper, cardboard and other printing tools, spare parts and equipment taking into account the publication of newspapers and magazines in electronic format.

In this regard, it is necessary to establish direct cooperation with leading manufacturers in the procurement of goods necessary for publishing in order to save and efficiently use the funds of the state budget.

The President of the country addressed a number of instructions to the chairman of the Turkmen State Information Agency on improvement of the Agency's activities in the anniversary year and increment of the services for preparation, distribution and publication of news.

The training of highly qualified personnel and the introduction of digital technologies are among current directions of the Agency's work.

Addressing the editors of newspapers and magazines, the head of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov gave specific instructions on increasing the number of published materials of different genres designed to cover the achievements and glorious events during the years of independence of the country, to explain the meaning and essence of the reforms being carried out educating our people in the spirit of patriotism.

The head of state also noted the necessity to take measures for finding new forms of timely delivery of newspapers and magazines to the population, thereby expanding the audience.  At the same time, the leader of the nation demanded to increase the level of knowledge and professionalism of the creative and technical personnel of periodicals constantly.

Separate instructions were given to the heads of profile universities on training of highly qualified profile personnel for the cultural and media sectors, as well as on improvement of the quality of the educational level of young people in accordance with world standards through the widespread introduction of innovative educational methods based on the achievements of digitalization.

President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov stressed the importance of systematic improvement of curricula and university programs taking into account national experience and the latest achievements in the world scientific, educational and cultural spheres.

In this context, the head of state gave instructions on enhancing interaction with leading universities of foreign countries and other competent specialized institutions.  In particular, it was requested to achieve active participation of students and teachers in international contests and shows as well as the development of new specialties in demand today.

Addressing Vice-premier M. Mammedova, the President of Turkmenistan ordered to hold all public events, celebrations and theatrical performances using modern achievements in this field in order to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's independence on high level.

Further enrichment of the content of creative events and stage performances, the reflection of national traditions and customs, cultural and spiritual values of the people have been specified among the priorities.

The leader of the nation gave instructions to increase the number and expand the range of extracurricular paid courses and services in visual and musical arts in order to stimulate the talent of young people, their desire to engage in creativity and study the ancient cultural heritage.

President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov demanded to pay more attention to improvement of the work of specialized institutions and establishments according to time requirements. For this purpose, it is necessary to analyse their financial and economic condition, production and economic activities, personnel issues on regular basis.

Already now, thorough preparations have to be started for state-level events on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of independence and for the Week of Culture, which will be held on July 22-27 in Lebap Region.

It is necessary to keep under close attention the implementation of the measures outlined in the Program of the country's social and economic development for 2019-2025 for this year, which is held under slogan "Turkmenistan - Home of Peace and Trust."

Building up international cultural ties, it is necessary to continue holding mutual Days of Culture and other events between the countries that contribute to the implementation of the peacekeeping policy of our sovereign state, the leader of the nation emphasized.

In this context, Vice-premier G. Mushshikov was instructed to study the possibilities of improving the financial support of institutions and departments of the cultural sphere periodically analysing their financial and economic condition, to monitor the timely development of the funds allocated to him from the State Budget of Turkmenistan and their intended use.

Finishing video conference working session, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov wished the participants good health, family well-being, great success in their work for the prosperity of the sovereign Motherland.