The ceremony spotlighted the contributions of the Academy’s new full members, lauded for their pivotal roles in advancing science in Kazakhstan. The gathering drew an array of distinguished attendees, including Darkhan Ahmed-Zaki, Vice Minister of Science and Higher Education, Azamat Kaldybekov, Deputy Akim of Almaty, senior academicians, university and research institute leaders, young scientists, representatives from business and industry, and media.
In his opening remarks, Akhylbek Kurishbayev, President of the Academy, reflected on a year marked by significant milestones in Kazakhstani science. He underscored the Academy’s commitment to transparency and rigor in its selection process.
“The Head of State has stressed that the election of academy members must be transparent and fair, with the public well-informed of the procedures,” Mr. Kurishbayev noted.
He elaborated on the recently instituted three-stage election process, which includes meeting established criteria, defending research programs before the Academy Presidium, and securing votes at the General Assembly. Kurishbayev emphasized that membership is reserved exclusively for those engaged in research, with government officials and businesspeople excluded from eligibility.
“Today, we introduce distinguished scholars whose contributions have significantly advanced Kazakhstani science,” he said.
The ceremony’s centerpiece was awarding diplomas to the newly elected academicians, followed by their addresses to the audience.
Among the newly inducted members were two scholars from Nazarbayev University: Dr. Yuriy Pya, recognized in the Life and Health Sciences Department for his work in medicine and healthcare, and Dr. Zhumabay Bakenov, honored in the Earth, Space, and Communications Department for his contributions to natural sciences and engineering.
With these additions, Nazarbayev University now boasts five members in the National Academy of Sciences, including Professor Dos Sarbassov, a biochemist and molecular biologist; Vice President Darkhan Bilyalov, an expert in higher education; and Professor Durvudkhan Suragan, a mathematician.
