On 4–5 November 2026, Dr. Burulcha Sulaimanova, Senior Lecturer of the MA in Economic Governance and Development Programme, and Dr. Zhyldyz Tegizbekova, Senior Lecturer of the MA in Human Rights and Sustainability Programme at the OSCE Academy in Bishkek, participated in the 2026 SPECA Economic Forum at the Ala Archa State Residence in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic.
Organised under the United Nations Special Programme for the Economies of Central Asia (SPECA), the Forum was held under the theme “Advancing Connectivity for Sustainable Development in the SPECA Region”.
On 5 November, Dr. Sulaimanova spoke at Session IV, “SMEs, Innovation and Women’s Entrepreneurship in Regional Value Chains”. She delivered a presentation entitled “Driving Sustainable Development in Central Asia: Academic Insights into Women’s Entrepreneurship and SME Growth”.
Her presentation addressed the role of SMEs in promoting economic growth, innovation and diversification in Central Asia, with particular attention to women’s entrepreneurship, economic participation and the challenges and opportunities facing women-led businesses.