Article
UNESCO Advances Scientific Cooperation in Central Asia
In a significant initiative to bolster scientific collaboration across Central Asia, the UNESCO Almaty Regional Office, in partnership with , successfully hosted the international conference “Strengthening Scientific Cooperation for Sustainable Development of Central Asia” on April 17-18, 2024, in Astana, Kazakhstan. The event, aligning with and responding to , drew approximately 80 government officials, scientists, and researchers from the region.
Dr. Amir Piric, Director (Officer-in-Charge) of the UNESCO Almaty Regional Office, highlighted in his opening remarks the importance of academic freedom and the necessity for public and private sectors to invest in scientific research and development. He also stressed the need for scientific knowledge to be integrated into policymaking, emphasizing the role of the scientific community in engaging with broader societal challenges.
Mr. Bakytzhan Temirbolat, Director of the Presidential Center of the Republic of Kazakhstan, highlighted in his speech that the head of state emphasized the importance of aligning domestic science with society's key challenges during the April meeting of the National Council on Science and Technology. He stressed the need for scientific research to inform state management and support the development of expert and analytical centers that enhance policy effectiveness.
Ms. Dina Amrisheva, UN Women Head of Office a.i., underscored the influence of female role models in STEM on societal progress and sustainable development, advocating for increased support and visibility for women and girls in scientific fields.
The conference culminated with Mr. Maxat Baibekov, Head of the Social and Human Sciences Sector at the UNESCO Almaty Regional Office, reading the Conference Declaration, which outlined several key initiatives, including:
The transformation of the conference into an annual dialogue platform to further science promotion under and in alignment with .
The creation of a Youth Scientific Network under the auspices of UNESCO to foster collaboration among young researchers in Central Asia.
Enhancing safety and protecting the rights of scientific researchers by implementing measures for safe working conditions, rights protection, and fostering an environment that supports free scientific inquiry.
Enhancing mechanisms to engage the public in science through popularization and educational initiatives.
Promoting gender equality in science to ensure women have full access to STEM fields.
Developing scientific and human resource capacities to improve qualifications and opportunities for all, particularly women and youth.
These are just some of the recommendations that have been forwarded to the and the for further action.
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For more information please contact:
Mr. Maxat Baibekov, +7 727 258 26 43 (ext. 504), m.baibekov@unesco.org
UNESCO Almaty Regional Office
