A sports festival marking World Health Day was held at the Olympic Village in Ashgabat. It was organised by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in collaboration with the State Committee of Turkmenistan for Physical Culture and Sport as part of the 2026–2027 work plan. This was reported by IIC.

The event aimed to promote a healthy lifestyle among young people, expand opportunities for girls in sport, and involve men in advancing gender equality.

The programme comprised four sessions at different venues. Some participants attended educational sessions on equality, whilst others took part in masterclasses on self-defence and gymnastics. Girls learnt kickboxing and taekwondo, whilst boys practised stretching and gymnastics.

This approach helped to reinforce the principles of mutual respect through sport and to demonstrate that physical activity is accessible to everyone, regardless of gender. The event highlighted the importance of equal access to sporting and educational opportunities for young people.