The development of regional science is an urgent task

Today, the Shakarim University team carefully familiarized itself with the main theses voiced by the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev at a meeting with the scientific community, held on March 19, 2026 at the Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, and discussed issues of the development of domestic science.

The meeting was opened by the rector of the university, Duman Orynbekov, emphasizing the importance of the initiatives and strategic guidelines outlined by the Head of State in the field of science. He also noted the relevance of today's meeting, organized within the framework of the President's instructions, and focused on the tasks of integrating science and education, as well as introducing research results into the real sector of the economy.

Further, Vice-Rector for Science Zhanar Kalibekkyzy made a meaningful report. In her speech, she highlighted key areas, including the financing of science and government support, the development of science cities and regional science, the staffing of scientists, as well as the effectiveness of the scientific activities of Shakarim University.

The report comprehensively examined the issues of increasing the scientific potential of the university, commercializing research results, supporting young scientists and strengthening the interaction between science and industry.

Shakarim University places special emphasis on a number of innovative programs. Among them are research in the field of agriculture, radioecology and reforestation, materials science and polymer materials, as well as other areas.

These programs are focused on solving regional problems and are implemented in close cooperation with industrial partners. Thus, the university ensures direct participation in solving current social, economic and technological problems of the region.

As Zhanar Kalibekkyzy noted, on behalf of the President, work has begun to assign the status of a science city to the city of Kurchatov. In addition, the introduction of a special legal regime for “accelerated development cities” will be an important step for the region.

In order to develop regional science, academic and research centers are being created in 11 universities of the country. In particular, the Center for Academic and Research Excellence is planned to be launched at Shakarim University in 2026–2028.

This project is aimed at developing the agro-industrial complex of the Abay region. As part of the program, 60% of the funding will be used to purchase scientific equipment. The key infrastructural result will be the creation of a Scientific Center for Assessing the Quality and Safety of Agricultural and Food Products, which will become the core of the emerging regional research and production ecosystem.

In recent years, the university has implemented more than 20 scientific projects, one of which has reached the stage of commercialization. The university has an Innovation Hub, which deals with technology transfer.

During the meeting, the need to strengthen efforts to bring scientific results to the market and establish systematic interaction with business structures was also noted.

Shakarim University has the necessary personnel and infrastructure potential for the development of science. Priority tasks include increasing the practical impact of scientific research, strengthening ties between science and industry, as well as contributing to the scientific and technological development of the region.