Turkmenistan Domestic Developments

Turkmenistan celebrates 21st anniversary of Independence
Turkmenistan celebrated its Independence Day with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the Monument of Independence, a military parade, and a celebratory concert. Addressing the Turkmen people on the occasion, President Berdymukhamedov said that at the end of the 20th century, when Turkmenistan gained independence, the Turkmen peoples’ centuries-old dream of “a free and happy life and a sovereign state” came true.
Source: Turkmenistan.ru 

Berdymukhamedov Pardoned 2015 people
According to the presidential decree "On amnesty of prisoners in honor of the 21st anniversary of independence”, 2015 people, including 11 foreign nationals, will be released from Turkmen prisons.
Source: Turkmenistan.ru 

Turkmen Farmer Became Berdymukhamedov’s Deputy
An unknown farmer from Dashoguz region became the Vice-Chairman of the Council of Elders headed by President Berdymukhamedov. The Turkmen leader personally nominated Khalli Nazarov, saying that he is the man “totally admired by people in his community.”
Source: Radio Azatlyk 

Turkmenistan to introduce 12-year system in schools and add paid for education
President Berdymukhamedov instructed his Government to consider reinstating the period of study in secondary schools to 12 years and the introduction of private education. "We have to take into account world experience which shows a steady increase in the volume of knowledge and rate of its distribution. This, in turn requires more time for learning. International experience shows that at least 11 -12 years is required to master the knowledge taught in the public schools," the president said in a statement.
Source: trend.az 

Cash Prizes to Contest Winners Decreased
Winners of the Turkmenistan’s Golden Age contest, held annually under the patronage of the President, received their prizes on October 10. Berdymukhamedov took part in the awards ceremony timed with Turkmenistan’s 21st Anniversary of Independence. In comparison with the previous year, the total amount of cash awarded to Turkmenistan’s artists decreased almost by 50 percent. Last year it amounted to 407,600 USD, in comparison with 236,000 USD this year. This was the 12th such contest in Turkmenistanl, which previously was called “The Golden Age of Saparmurat Turkmenbashi the Great.” In 2000, each winner received 5000 USD, which was equivalent to the cost of a two-bedroom apartment; now winners receive USD, which is equivalent to three months wages.
Source: Turkmenistan Chronicles