15/12/2025
International Research Center Opened in Aktobe with the University of Minnesota
Today, December 15, on the joint initiative of K. Zhubanov Aktobe Regional University and the University of Minnesota, the International Center for the Development of Research Competencies was opened in Kazakhstan for the first time. The new center will function as a modern research platform aimed at fostering a scientific culture and strengthening international academic collaboration.
The main mission of the center is to create a sustainable research ecosystem that provides comprehensive support to researchers at all levels — from students to faculty members.
The opening ceremony, held online, was attended by the Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Sayasat Nurbek. In his speech, he noted that the opening of the center will make a significant contribution to strengthening the country’s research ecosystem and developing a culture of continuous education within higher education. The minister emphasized that the center will serve as an important platform for enhancing methodological training of faculty and researchers, developing skills in scientific publications, ensuring compliance with international standards of research ethics, and integrating Kazakhstani science into the global academic space. Special attention was given to the implementation of the “train the trainer” model, which ensures sustainable development of research competencies and systematic knowledge and experience sharing within the academic community.
The ceremony was also attended by the Vice Minister of Science and Higher Education of Kazakhstan, Gulzat Kobenova; Vice-Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University, Richard Williams; Director of the Department of International Initiatives at the University of Minnesota, Marina Aleisho; Professor of the Rodney Wallace Department of Teaching and Learning at the University of Minnesota, Bhaskar Upadhyay; as well as the Chair of the Board — Rector of K. Zhubanov Aktobe Regional University, Laura Karabassova.
The key areas of activity of the center include methodological consulting on research planning, data analysis, preparation of grant applications and scientific publications; conducting seminars and educational courses on modern research methods, academic writing, and research ethics; the creation of a unified digital platform; and the development of the scientific community.
The establishment of the center is an important step in developing the region’s scientific potential. The project’s implementation will enhance the quality and international competitiveness of Kazakhstani research, expand opportunities to attract external grants and investments in science, stimulate youth engagement in research and innovation, and strengthen Kazakhstan’s position within the global scientific community.
gov.kz