At the dawn of the 20th century, Turkmenistan, like many regions in Central Asia, faced significant changes in education. However, the path to equality was far from smooth.
For many years, access to education for girls was limited due to entrenched traditional and cultural beliefs. Many men resisted the idea of educating girls, believing that their place was at home rather than in a classroom.
In Turkmenistan, the situation was particularly challenging. In the early 1900s, the percentage of girls attending school was markedly lower compared to boys. For instance, in 1901, only 14.2% of girls were enrolled in schools, while the rate for boys was significantly higher.
Despite the resistance, positive changes began to emerge. The establishment of new schools and educational institutions marked significant progress. In 1901, for example, the first girls’ gymnasium opened in Ashgabat, providing girls with educational opportunities previously unavailable to them.
Government and community activists also began taking steps to improve the situation. This was a crucial step towards better educational conditions and expanding opportunities for women in the region.
These changes laid the groundwork for future advancements in education and women’s rights in Turkmenistan. The history of this period reminds us of the importance of continuing the fight for equal rights and opportunities, despite resistance and obstacles.