Kazakhstan’s Restoration Plans for Water Institute in Taraz
Kazakhstan Plans to Restore Zhambyl Irrigation Institute, Specializing in Water Resources
Kazakhstan is set to revive the Zhambyl Irrigation Institute, focusing solely on water resources, according to Advisor to the Kazakh President Kanat Bozumbayev. The announcement was made at the Feb. 22 Global Water International Forum on Water Technologies and Resources, as reported by Kazinform. The institute was active until 1998.
Bozumbayev expressed concerns about the lag in scientific research in the water sector compared to foreign counterparts. He emphasized the critical need for skilled personnel within the industry and called for a revision of approaches and educational standards to train specialists in the water industry.
Addressing the issue of water-intensive crops, Bozumbayev stressed the necessity of reducing the area dedicated to such cultivation in the country. He also highlighted the potential for extensive use of recycling water supply systems and encouraged major consumers to adopt measures to decrease water consumption by 25-30%.
Further, Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Nurlan Nurzhigitov outlined plans to incorporate new water specialties in the Bolashak international scholarship program. The added specialties include Hydrogeology, Water Resources, and Water Security, providing Kazakh students with the opportunity to study these subjects abroad. Nurzhigitov also urged young people to explore water management and diplomacy.
Moreover, the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation has been actively engaging in discussions with foreign partners, including representatives from China, France, Germany, Türkiye, and the United Kingdom, to collaborate on water-related goals.
The move to restore the Zhambyl Irrigation Institute and the emphasis on water resource management reflect Kazakhstan’s commitment to addressing current challenges and ensuring sustainable water management for the future.
