BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 9. Kazakhstan and the
University of Arizona have discussed expanding cooperation in
higher education, scientific research, and technology transfer.
This was reported by the press service of the Kazakh government,
citing a meeting between Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov and
the president of the University of Arizona, Suresh Garimella.
According to the information, the sides reviewed prospects for
broadening joint academic programs, strengthening research
cooperation and promoting technology transfer in sectors considered
strategic for Kazakhstan.
''The new Constitution of Kazakhstan identifies education,
science and innovation as strategic priorities of state policy.
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has designated the development of
human capital as one of our key priorities. We are building a
regional academic and research hub by introducing international
best practices and expanding scientific cooperation,'' Kazakh
government says, citing Bektenov's remarks.
In turn, Garimella described the cooperation with Kozybayev
University as a successful pilot model that could be expanded to
other higher education institutions across Kazakhstan.
''We have demonstrated that this model of educational
cooperation can be implemented and scaled to serve more students at
Kozybayev University as well as other universities across the
country. We have chosen three key priorities: student success,
research, and service to society and local communities. Each of
these priorities is being implemented at Kozybayev University
through study abroad, engagement, education and other
initiatives,'' Garimella said.
The meeting also focused on expanding joint research projects.
Kozybayev University and the University of Arizona are
collaborating in water resource management, agricultural genomics,
bioinformatics, sulfur processing, artificial intelligence, digital
healthcare and inclusive education.
Among the ongoing initiatives are projects on monitoring,
treating and managing water resources in North Kazakhstan Region,
genomic selection of agricultural crops, conservation of
Kazakhstan's unique biodiversity, including the Caspian seal and
Greig's tulip, as well as technologies for processing sulfur into
high-value products such as advanced materials, fertilizers and
sorbents.
The two sides reaffirmed their interest in further expanding
academic and scientific cooperation and improving the quality of
workforce training in Kazakhstan.
The University of Arizona was among the first foreign
universities to establish an educational partnership with
Kazakhstan as part of the country's efforts to strengthen its
scientific and academic potential.
The university currently maintains a strategic partnership with
Kozybayev University, where more than 1,200 students are enrolled
in joint academic programs. The first graduating class is expected
this year.
