On 22 June 2023, IOM, in partnership with the Institute of Youth Development, launched the “Aikol Society” information campaign to unite the efforts of the local community to improve the safety of foreign students in Kyrgyzstan.

“Aikol society” means that our people are open and ready to help, respect and support students who come to study in Kyrgyzstan from other countries.

There are many universities in Kyrgyzstan that educate students from all over the world. As part of the campaign, we will talk about different communities, tell young people from other countries about our culture, and also learn new things from them. According to the National Statistical Committee of the Kyrgyz Republic, more than 35% of all students of educational institutions are foreign citizens, and about 28% are citizens of the CIS countries.

Diversity is our wealth, and with it, each nation has unique qualities and advantages that can be used for the well-being of our country and the world at large.

We believe that in order to create a dynamic and progressive society, Kyrgyzstan and the whole world should embrace different nationalities and cultures. Each of us contributes to this goal, so we need to respect and appreciate the differences between us.

Our campaign aims to bring us all together and create a community that promotes mutual understanding, cooperation and development. We will organize events, educational programs and cultural events to help local and foreign residents of Bishkek and Osh get to know each other better and see that each nation has its own unique strengths.