Kozybayev University and the University of Arizona: Over Four Years of Collaboration

The strategic partnership between Kozybayev University and the University of Arizona is transforming from an academic project into a large-scale research and industrial driver for the region and the entire country.

This was the focus of a meeting between Yerbol Issakayev, Chairman of the Board – Rector of Kozybayev University, and a delegation from the University of Arizona led by Ricky Salazar, Senior Director for Educational Partnerships at Arizona International, along with University of Arizona professors. According to the Rector, over four years of joint work with the University of Arizona have proven the project's effectiveness. Today, the microcampus in Petropavl is not only training workforce talent but is also moving toward the practical implementation of applied scientific research.

This year, Kozybayev University recorded a record intake for dual-degree programs—165 students. Recently introduced programs in business and management are also seeing high demand.

"This summer, we awarded diplomas to the first graduates of our programs for the first time, which was a major milestone. Furthermore, this was the first international trip by University of Arizona President Suresh Garimella to an overseas microcampus. The academic programs implemented here serve as a hub, or foundation, for our cooperation. However, we are interested in deeper engagement, which includes scientific research, industry partnerships, talent development, collaboration with government authorities, and all other components," reported Ricky Salazar, Senior Director for Educational Partnerships at Arizona International.

The partnership has already expanded far beyond the North Kazakhstan Region. On the eve of the meeting, a delegation of University of Arizona researchers—Charles Gerba, Irina Panyushkina, and Shamil Saiyev—completed a series of scientific visits to regions across Kazakhstan.

Ahead lies the implementation of several large-scale scientific and technological projects: Rice Genomics: A joint project aimed at breeding new resilient crop varieties; Development of Sulfur Polymerization Technology.

A major highlight of the year will be a high-level visit by a delegation from the University of Arizona to Kazakhstan, scheduled for December. During the visit, the parties plan to sign an official agreement launching a dual-degree program in Chemical Engineering, directly connecting science with the real sector of the economy.