On 13 February 2025, the OSCE Academy proudly awarded graduate degrees to students in the MA programme of Human Rights and Sustainability (MAHRS). A total of 11 students from Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan completed their studies and joined the OSCE Academy and Global Campus Alumni Network.
Dr. Pal Dunay, Interim Director of the OSCE Academy, opened the Graduation Ceremony 2025, welcoming the graduating students, representatives from the Kyrgyz government, members of the diplomatic corps, partners, donors, and families. In his address, Dr. Dunay highlighted the significance of this year’s graduation, stating, “This is the first time in the more than twenty years long history of the OSCE Academy when three MA programmes graduate together.” He acknowledged the Academy’s strong base, adding, “Now the OSCE Academy has solid foundations, its courses are in demand, and its students in most cases find their place easily in the labour market or continue their studies in other MA programmes or in order to acquire PhD degrees, including at some of the finest universities in the world.” Dunay also underscored the crucial support from donors and international partners, thanking OSCE participating states such as Austria, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Poland, Switzerland, and the U.S., stating, “We need this support, and we can reassure our donors that we will spend every penny responsibly for the purpose we are here to achieve.” Addressing the graduates, he remarked, “Keep your mind open, be curious, and see a world that has the potential to be better with your active involvement and participation,” encouraging them to remain engaged with the Academy through publications, training programmes, and the upcoming Alumni Reunion on 14-15 June in Bishkek.
The ceremony continued with remarks from Ambassador Alexey Rogov, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the OSCE Academy, who extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2025. He emphasized the significance of this milestone, stating, “Today is a day to look back on achievements, but it is also a day to look ahead. And all of us congratulate you on your future accomplishments, which I believe you will achieve.” Ambassador Rogov acknowledged the unwavering support of the Kyrgyz government, donors, and academic partners, highlighting their role in shaping the Academy’s success. He reminded graduates, “You have been given unique opportunities and skills that few in the world will ever have – now it is up to you to do something amazing with them.” He urged graduates to stay connected with their alma mater and return for future reunions, reinforcing the lifelong bond they share as part of the OSCE Academy alumni network.
On behalf of the Finnish Chairpersonship of the OSCE in 2025, graduating students were greeted by H.E. Janne Heiskanen, Ambassador of Finland to Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. Finland has been a strong supporter of the OSCE Academy since its establishment and Ambassador Heiskanen emphasized that “The OSCE Academy is a prime example of how education can bridge gaps and promote the OSCE’s core values.” In his speech, Ambassador highlighted the priorities and commitments of Finland as the OSCE Chair, which are three guiding principles: Respect (the OSCE’s principles and commitments) – Respond (to the current challenges) – and Prepare (for the future). “In line with Finland’s three priorities as the OSCE Chair, we recognaize the critical role that education plays in fostering a culture of peace and cooperation. Your graduation is a proof of the success of the OSCE Academy’s mission,” stated Ambassador Heiskanen.
The next speaker, Mr. Melis Mamadaliev, Director of the Department for International Organizations and Security at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic, addressed the graduates, recognizing their perseverance and dedication. He noted that their diplomas symbolize hard work, “This document, your diploma, is not just a piece of paper; it represents your determination, the knowledge you’ve gained, and the challenges you’ve overcome to get here.” He commended the Academy for its role in shaping future leaders and emphasized the importance of critical thinking and meaningful dialogue in addressing global challenges. Acknowledging the strong collaboration between the OSCE Academy and the OSCE, Mr. Mamadaliev reaffirmed the Kyrgyz government’s commitment to supporting the institution and expanding opportunities for young professionals. In closing, he wished graduates bold decisions, new victories, and success in their professional journeys ahead.
One of the highlights of the ceremony was the announcement by Ms. Onolkan Umankulova, President of the “EdNet” Accreditation Agency, of the first-ever five-year international accreditation for the Master of Liberal Arts and Sciences in Human Rights and Sustainability programme (MAHRS) at the OSCE Academy within the Global Campus of Human Rights Network. Ms. Umankulova stated, “As an internationally recognized accreditation agency, I can state that the OSCE Academy has long been a case of excellence in higher education not only in Kyrgyzstan but in Central Asia.” She underscored the strong partnership between EdNet and the Academy, built on a shared vision of fostering quality education and preparing highly qualified professionals. In her speech, Ms. Umankulova revealed that the OSCE Academy had successfully met the rigorous standards of EdNet and its European partner, ENQA, making it the first institution to receive such accreditation. “This certification is not just a piece of paper—it is proof of the Academy’s unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and excellence,” she stated. She expressed confidence that graduates, as ambassadors of the Academy, would go on to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the world. She congratulated the Academy on this achievement and encouraged graduates to use their education to foster understanding, build bridges, and shape a better future.
The ceremony continued with the awarding of MA diplomas, led by Ambassador Rogov, Dr. Dunay, and Professor Anja Mihr, the Academic Director of the MAHRS Programme. Following the ceremony, the lecturers congratulated the students and delivered inspiring speeches about excelling in both academic and practical domains. The speakers included Dr. Sebastian Mayer, DAAD Associate Professor at the OSCE Academy for the MA in PS; Dr. Nurgul Tilenbaeva, a Visiting Lecturer at the OSCE Academy and AUCA for the MA in EGD; and Dr. Saniia Toktogazieva, Visiting Lecturer at the OSCE Academy and AUCA, for the MAHRS Programme.
Additionally, the lecturers announced the nominees for the Best Thesis and Top GPA awards. In the MAHRS Programme, Ilya Lomakin received both the Top GPA and Best Thesis awards.
The final part of the ceremony included farewell speeches from students representing each MA program: Ms. Nasiba spoke for the PS programme, Ms. Aizhamal Duishonbekova represented EGD, and Ms. Jyldyz Sarieva spoke for the MAHRS programme.
Dr. Dunay concluded the Graduation Ceremony, after which all students, faculty, and the distinguished guests gathered for a family photo and the graduation toss.
