Inspiration and New Ideas: Highlights from STEMKYZ CUP 2026

On September 27, the international STEM project championship for girls, STEMKYZ CUP 2026, took place — a vibrant event that brought together young innovators, mentors, and experts.

We, Good Neighbors Kyrgyz Republic, were delighted to serve as partners for this large-scale event and to support the rising generation of talent. During the championship, we had the opportunity to speak with one of the remarkable participants — listen to the video to learn about the ideas and inspiration shared by the youth of Kyrgyzstan!

For us, supporting children and creating conditions for their growth is a core priority. Guided by our key principle — encouraging self-reliance and the continuous development of individuals, families, and communities — we are proud to be part of such initiatives and to help unlock the potential of every child.

We express our gratitude to the STEMKYZ organizers for creating such a powerful platform, as well as to all the participants for their hard work, courage, and dedication to making the world a better place! 🚀✨

Instagram video

Other news:
Equipping School No. 21 with Interactive Displays and Lockers in Bel-Aldy

A major phase in outfitting the Y. Alymbekov School No. 21 has successfully concluded. Thanks to joint efforts and an effective co-funding approach, the educational facility is moving toward a whole new level of development.

📊 Key Highlights and Facts:

- 6 interactive displays were installed during the previous academic year.
- 12 modern displays and 60 metal lockers (with 480 individual compartments) were delivered this academic year.
- The school is now fully equipped with modern technology and a solid material base to conduct interactive lessons, open classes, and standardized test preparation (ORT).

The defining feature of this project is the initiative of the residents themselves. The local community generated the idea for school development, while Good Neighbors Kyrgyz Republic stepped in as a supportive partner. By combining the resources of residents, local authorities, and Toktogul development funds, we implemented a co-funding approach. This empowers the community to drive positive local change, make meaningful contributions, and build greater self-reliance.

The new interactive displays make lessons engaging and dynamic, while the metal lockers save children from carrying heavy textbooks from home, protecting their posture and overall health.

We extend our sincere gratitude to all partners, funds, and local community members for their dedication and investment in the younger generation! Together, we are creating a strong foundation for high-quality education and a bright future for our children. 💚

🤝 Would you like to support our projects and contribute to the children's future?
You can do so right now — simply scan the QR code in our Highlights ("Support") on our profile! Even a 100 KGS donation makes a difference. ✨

Instagram video interview with the school management

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"My Voice Matters!" Forum Theater and Puppet Theater Contest

REGULATIONS

on holding the forum theater and puppet theater contest

"My Voice Matters!"

💡 Contest Motto:

"Every child has the right to be heard!"

 

1. General Provisions

The forum theater and puppet theater contest "My Voice Matters!" is held within the framework of the "Children's Voices" project and is dedicated to World Children's Day, celebrated annually on November 20 to mark the adoption of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

The contest aims to raise children's awareness of their rights, develop creative abilities, promote a culture of non-violence, mutual respect, equality, and encourage active child participation in the life of schools, kindergartens, and local communities.

 

2. Goal of the Contest

Creating conditions for children's creative self-expression through theater arts, as well as promoting the protection of children's rights, building a safe environment, and fostering children's active participation in educational organizations and community life.

 

3. Objectives of the Contest

  • Raising children's awareness of children's rights;

  • Developing communication, cooperation, and teamwork skills;

  • Fostering a respectful attitude toward others;

  • Preventing violence, bullying, and discrimination;

  • Developing children's creative and leadership skills;

  • Drawing public attention to child protection issues.

 

4. Contest Participants

4.1. Forum Theater Contest

Students of general education schools located in Kok-Chu CDP, Bolot Mambetov CDP, Bel-Aldy CDP, and Zhapalak CDP take part in the contest.

Participating Schools:

  1. Secondary General School No. 34 named after Ch. Tuleberdiev;

  2. Secondary General School No. 35 named after Atabaev;

  3. Secondary General School No. 30 named after A. Aliev;

  4. Secondary General School No. 45 named after M. Myrzaev (Osh city);

  5. Secondary General School No. 48;

  6. Secondary General School No. 68;

  7. Nizhne-Chuy Secondary School named after Iskhak Razzakov;

  8. Nizhne-Chuy Secondary School named after Absamat Masaliev;

  9. Secondary School named after Aaly Tokombaev;

  10. Secondary School named after B. Mambetov;

  11. Secondary School named after A. Kolbaev;

  12. Secondary School named after Zhusup Turusbekov;

  13. Secondary School named after K. Tilekov;

  14. Secondary School named after Zhuma Zhamgyrchiev;

  15. Secondary School named after M. Dogdurov (Ton district);

  16. Secondary School named after Tailakov (Ton district);

  17. Secondary General School No. 18 named after Kubatbek Chokoev;

  18. Secondary General School No. 22 named after Mukash Zhamgyrkanov;

  19. Secondary General School No. 30 named after Kulmanbet Toktoraliev;

  20. Secondary General School No. 29 named after Muktar Nurgaziev;

  21. Secondary General School No. 34 named after Salaev;

  22. Secondary General School No. 32 named after Beknazar;

  23. Secondary General School No. 33 named after Artykbaev;

  24. Secondary General School No. 21 named after Y. Alymbekov;

  25. Secondary General School No. 19 named after Toktonaaly Ashyraliev;

  26. Secondary School named after Abdymanap Mamyrov;

  27. Secondary School No. 20 named after T. Zhundubaev.

 

4.2. Puppet Theater Contest

Children enrolled in preschool educational organizations take part in the contest.

Participating Preschool Organizations:

  1. Kindergarten "Zhetkinchek";

  2. Kindergarten named after "Nariste";

  3. Kindergarten No. 10;

  4. Kindergarten named after Zhusup Turusbekov;

  5. Three-hour Kindergarten named after Zh. Zhamgyrchiev;

  6. Kindergarten No. 7;

  7. Kindergarten No. 12 named after Zhunushov Zholdoshbek;

  8. Three-hour Kindergarten "Bolot Mambetov";

  9. Kindergarten No. 5;

  10. Short-stay Kindergarten at the school named after Mukash Zhamgyrkanov;

  11. Kindergarten "Ak-Shoola";

  12. Kindergarten "Nur";

  13. Preschool Educational Organization No. 7 "Zhyldyz";

  14. Kindergarten No. 15 "Satymbu apa";

  15. Kindergarten No. 21 "Balastan";

  16. Preschool Educational Organization No. 4 "Chabalekey";

  17. Kindergarten No. 17 "Baktykan apa";

  18. Kindergarten No. 14 "Dilde ayym";

  19. Kindergarten No. 84 "Yntymak";

  20. Kindergarten No. 60 "Archa-Beshik".

 

5. Topics of Performances

Forum Theaters:

  • Children's rights;

  • Right to be heard;

  • Prevention of violence and bullying;

  • Safe school environment;

  • Friendship, respect, and mutual aid;

  • Children's participation in decision-making;

  • Equality and tolerance;

  • Protection of children's rights.

Puppet Theaters:

  • Happy childhood;

  • Friendship and kindness;

  • Care and respect;

  • Child safety;

  • Mutual help and support;

  • Child's right to love, care, and protection.

 

6. Requirements for Performance Submissions

  • Performance duration must not exceed 15 minutes;

  • The performance must correspond to the contest topics;

  • Use of musical accompaniment, costumes, scenery, and props is allowed;

  • Participation must be collective (team-based);

  • Performance content must be age-appropriate for participants;

  • The theatrical performance must promote children's rights, a culture of respect, and non-violent behavior;

  • Deadline: November 25, 2026.

Mandatory Condition for Participation: Each team must provide a high-quality video recording of their performance (horizontal orientation, clear video image, and clear audio).

📞 To submit an application, please contact: +996 550 039 394

Submitted video materials may be used by the organizers for demonstration at the "Menin ünum – menin kelechegim" festival, as well as in information, presentation, and reporting materials for the "Children's Voices" project.

 

7. Evaluation Criteria

Contest entries are evaluated according to the following criteria:

Criterion

Maximum Score

Relevance to the contest theme

20

Expression of idea and content

20

Acting skills

20

Creative approach and originality

20

Teamwork and stage presence

20

Total

100

 

8. Procedure for Summing Up Results

  • Evaluation of contest performances is carried out by a jury appointed by the organizers.

  • Based on the results, the following will be determined:

    • best theatrical performances;

    • best acting ensembles;

    • best individual acting performances;

    • winners and runner-ups in specific nominations.

  • Organizers reserve the right to establish additional nominations.

 

9. Awarding

  • Contest winners and runner-ups will be awarded:

    • diplomas;

    • commemorative gifts;

    • valuable prizes.

  • As part of the "Menin ünum – menin kelechegim" festival, the organizers will select the best performances for live presentation on stage.

  • Top creative groups and individual participants will be recognized with special prizes and diplomas.

  • Participants' creative works may be presented at the festival and used in project information materials.

 

10. Final Provisions

  • By submitting contest materials, participants and their legal representatives confirm their consent to photo and video recording, as well as the use of submitted materials by the organizers within the "Children's Voices" project for information, educational, and reporting purposes, respecting children's rights and with mandatory attribution of authorship.

  • The contest organizers reserve the right to make changes and additions to these Regulations, notifying participants in a timely manner.

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Drawing Contest: "My Rights Are Protected, My Responsibilities Matter!"

REGULATIONS

on holding the drawing contest

"My rights are protected, my responsibilities matter!"

💡 Contest Motto:

"Rights give opportunities, responsibilities help us grow!"

 

1. General Provisions

The drawing contest "My rights are protected, my responsibilities matter!" is held within the framework of the "Children's Voices" project among students of educational organizations located in four Community Development Programs (CDP) of the Public Foundation "Good Neighbors International" in the Kyrgyz Republic, dedicated to World Children's Day and the anniversary of the adoption of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, celebrated on November 20.

The contest aims to raise awareness among children and adolescents about their rights and responsibilities, develop creative abilities, foster legal culture, responsibility, and respect for the rights of others.

 

2. Goal of the Contest

Fostering an understanding of rights and responsibilities among children and teenagers through creativity, as well as raising awareness of the provisions of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

 

3. Objectives of the Contest

  • Increasing legal literacy among children and teenagers;

  • Fostering respect for human rights and children's rights;

  • Developing a sense of responsibility for one's own actions;

  • Developing creative abilities and artistic skills of the participants;

  • Drawing public attention to child protection and violence prevention issues;

  • Encouraging children's active participation in promoting ideas of respect, equality, and non-violence.

 

4. Contest Participants

Children and teenagers aged 13 to 17 are invited to participate in the contest.

Students from the following schools located in the target areas participate in the contest:

  • Kok-Chu CDP

  • Bolot Mambetov CDP

  • Bel-Aldy CDP

  • Zhapalak CDP

Participating Schools:

  1. Secondary General School No. 34 named after Ch. Tuleberdiev

  2. Secondary General School No. 35 named after Atabaev

  3. Secondary General School No. 30 named after A. Aliev

  4. Secondary General School No. 45 named after M. Myrzaev (Osh city)

  5. Secondary General School No. 48

  6. Secondary General School No. 68

  7. Nizhne-Chuy Secondary School named after Iskhak Razzakov

  8. Nizhne-Chuy Secondary School named after Absamat Masaliev

  9. Secondary School named after Aaly Tokombaev

  10. Secondary School named after B. Mambetov

  11. Secondary School named after A. Kolbaev

  12. Secondary School named after Zhusup Turusbekov

  13. Secondary School named after K. Tilekov

  14. Secondary School named after Zhuma Zhamgyrchiev

  15. Secondary School named after M. Dogdurov (Ton district)

  16. Secondary School named after Tailakov (Ton district)

  17. Secondary General School No. 18 named after Kubatbek Chokoev

  18. Secondary General School No. 22 named after Mukash Zhamgyrkanov

  19. Secondary General School No. 30 named after Kulmanbet Toktoraliev

  20. Secondary General School No. 29 named after Muktar Nurgaziev

  21. Secondary General School No. 34 named after Salaev

  22. Secondary General School No. 32 named after Beknazar

  23. Secondary General School No. 33 named after Artykbaev

  24. Secondary General School No. 21 named after Y. Alymbekov

  25. Secondary General School No. 19 named after Toktonaaly Ashyraliev

  26. Secondary School named after Abdymanap Mamyrov

  27. Secondary School No. 20 named after T. Zhundubaev

 

5. Topics of Contest Submissions

Contest submissions may reflect the following topics:

  • Right to education;

  • Right to protection from violence;

  • Right to health and well-being;

  • Right to rest, leisure, and development;

  • Right to express one's opinion;

  • Responsibilities of a child in the family, school, and society;

  • Mutual respect, responsibility, and friendship;

  • A world without violence;

  • Safe and supportive environment for children;

  • Observation and protection of children's rights.

 

6. Requirements for Submissions

  • The artwork must correspond to the contest theme.

  • Each participant may submit no more than one artwork.

  • The work must be created independently.

  • Any artistic technique is allowed (pencil, watercolor, gouache, pastels, markers, etc.).

  • Artwork format: A3.

  • The work must be neat and completed.

  • Deadline: November 10, 2026.

The following details must be indicated on the back of the artwork:

  1. Participant's full name;

  2. Age;

  3. Grade / Class;

  4. Name of the educational organization;

  5. Village / City;

  6. Teacher's full name (if applicable);

  7. Contact phone number.

 

7. Evaluation Criteria

Contest entries are evaluated according to the following criteria:

Criterion

Maximum Points

Relevance to the contest theme

20

Coverage of the topic on children's rights and responsibilities

20

Originality of the idea

20

Artistic skill and quality of execution

20

Creative approach and expressiveness of the work

20

Total

100

 

8. Procedure for Summing Up Results

  • Evaluation of the entries is performed by a contest committee established by the organizers.

  • Winners are determined based on the total score accumulated.

  • The contest committee reserves the right to establish additional nominations.

 

9. Awarding

The best works of the contest will be exhibited at the "Menin ünum – menin kelechegim" festival held as part of the "Children's Voices" project in honor of World Children's Day.

Authors of the best works will be awarded:

  • 📜 Diplomas;

  • 🎁 Commemorative gifts;

  • 🏆 Valuable prizes.

All contest participants will receive certificates of participation.

 

10. Final Provisions

By submitting work to the contest, participants confirm their agreement with these Regulations and grant organizers the right to use the contest artworks for exhibitions, presentations, publications in project information materials, social networks, and other non-commercial purposes with mandatory attribution of authorship.

We invite children and teenagers to express their understanding of rights, duties, respect, responsibility, and a world without violence through creativity!

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