Completion of the “Step Up” Project: Three Years of Support for Vulnerable Children and Youth in Kyrgyzstan

On May 16, 2025, the final event of the Step Up project, implemented by the Rural Development Fund, was held in Bishkek.

During the event, the results of three years of work were presented, including the project’s key achievements and touching success stories from its participants.

The event brought together heads of educational institutions, boarding schools, rehabilitation centers, vocational lyceums, crisis centers and NGOs from across Kyrgyzstan that support children and youth in vulnerable life situations.

AED was represented by Begaiym Orozakunova, a member of AED. the Director of the PA Proftech.Kg, who had been recommended by the organization and was elected Chair of the Coordination Council for a three-year term. In recognition of her flexible, dedicated, and responsible work, and for AED’s overall contribution to the project, Begaiym and AED, received certificates of appreciation.

The Step Up project aimed to enhance the capacity and expand the opportunities of vulnerable children and youth.

Over the past three years:

• 18 state and civil society organizations benefited from the project

• Vocational lyceums were equipped with computer labs, sewing machines, laundry and gardening equipment

• Over 1,000 children and young people in difficult life circumstances received support

• The Start Up program for NGOs was launched with material and technical assistance

We are proud of our representative’s contribution to this important project and thank our partners for their trust and fruitful cooperation!