The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has been awarded the title of ‘Honorary Doctor of Political Science’ by Sungkyunkwan University in the Republic of Korea. The formal ceremony took place on 15 September as part of the Head of Turkmenistan’s state visit to the Republic of Korea, according to the news agency TDH.

The decision to award the honorary title was taken by Sungkyunkwan University in recognition of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov’s contributions to the development of international cooperation, the strengthening of political and diplomatic ties, and the socio-economic development of Turkmenistan.

The document conferring the degree highlights the Head of State’s experience in foreign policy, law-making, local self-government and the economy, as well as his contribution to the development of the digital economy and the diversification of the national economy.

The ceremony took place in the main conference hall of Sungkyunkwan University. Before the ceremony began, those present were briefed on the key achievements of the President of Turkmenistan.

Yoo Ji-beom, President of Sungkyunkwan University, emphasised the significance of the honorary degree for the development of friendly relations between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea. Following this, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov was presented with the diploma, and a commemorative photo session took place.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Head of Turkmenistan expressed his gratitude to the management and staff of Sungkyunkwan University for conferring the honorary title. Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasised the importance of cooperation in the field of education and highlighted Sungkyunkwan University’s collaboration with the International University for the Humanities and Development and the Oguz Han University of Engineering and Technology.

President Serdar Berdimuhamedov also highlighted the prospects for joint educational initiatives, including exchanges of students, lecturers and researchers, as well as the training of specialists in the fields of artificial intelligence, engineering, energy, digital technologies and industrial management.

Sungkyunkwan University dates back to 1398. According to the university, the honorary degree was first awarded in 1957. To date, 101 people have been awarded this honour, including the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, in 2015.