On August 11, 2025, the Youth Environmental Festival “Khan Qoryq” officially opened at Nazarbayev University, celebrating the contribution of young people to sustainable development and nature conservation in Kazakhstan.
The festival brought together 50 young leaders from universities such as Kozybayev University, Buketov University, Eurasian National University, AITU, Ualikhanov University, and NU, all united by a common goal — to shape the ecological future of the country.
The first and central day of the festival featured expert lectures from representatives of UNDP, Qazaq Geography, Chapter Zero, and ACBK. The sessions covered key topics such as sustainable youth environmental leadership, eco-conscious municipal solid waste management, the role of university campuses as platforms for youth ecological leadership, and climate governance.
The day concluded with a tour of NU’s renewable energy testing site, where participants witnessed how scientific knowledge can be translated into practical, sustainable solutions.
Following the vibrant program in Astana, participants will head to Bayanaul for a three-day practical intensive, taking place from August 12 to 14. There, young eco-activists will engage in thematic and interactive sessions led by UNDP experts. The agenda includes in-depth exploration of essential topics such as “Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Ecosystem Management,” “Green Finance: Challenges and Opportunities in Kazakhstan,” and a timely discussion titled “Youth and Climate.”
In addition to educational sessions, the Bayanaul program features hands-on workshops and exciting excursions to the region’s unique historical, cultural, and natural sites. Participants will not only gain valuable insights from leading environmental experts, but also apply their knowledge in practice, experiencing firsthand the beauty and ecological richness of Kazakhstan.
The festival will conclude on August 14 with a closing ceremony and certificate presentation, marking the first step for these young leaders in implementing their own environmental projects.
