On March 7, 2025, the National Workshop for Universities in Kazakhstan was held at Kazakh National Agrarian University (KazNAU), bringing together sustainability experts, educators, and policymakers to explore the critical role of higher education in driving sustainable development. Organized in collaboration with the KazNAU UI GreenMetric National Coordinator in Kazakhstan, the event aimed to encourage collaboration and innovation in sustainability practices across universities in the country.
The workshop opened with welcoming remarks from prominent figures in sustainability and higher education. Prof. Riri Fitri Sari, Chairperson of UI GreenMetric, discussed how the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings inspire universities to adopt sustainable practices and integrate environmental responsibility into their policies. Idiricov Kamaladdin, representing the Council of Ministers of Karakalpakstan, emphasized the importance of government and financial support in advancing sustainability initiatives. Dr. Brendan Duprey, Founding Director of the Sustainable Kazakhstan Research Institute at Narxoz University, underscored the need to embed sustainability within research and academic programs to generate long-lasting environmental solutions. Laurinne Jamie Eugenio, Co-President of the Harvard Undergraduates in Asia Program (HUAP, UK), shared valuable insights on the impact of student-led sustainability movements on university efforts. The session was moderated by Maiya Suynchaliyeva, a leading specialist at Kazakh National Agrarian Research University.
Following the opening session, UI GreenMetric representatives provided an in-depth exploration of sustainability rankings and their influence on higher education. Dr. Junaidi, S.S., M.A., Vice-Chair of Program, Communication, and Partnership at UI GreenMetric, explained how the rankings serve as a global benchmark for sustainability efforts, motivating universities to enhance their environmental policies.
The workshop continued with engaging presentations from distinguished academics and sustainability advocates. Mariya Genina, Manager of the DKU-UNEP project at Kazakhstan-German University (DKU), introduced the “Global Opportunities for Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in Central Asia and Transcaucasia” project, which focuses on regional collaboration to meet sustainability targets. Rasima Salimbaeva, Head of Educational Programs in Ecology and Sustainable Development at Narxoz University, discussed strategies for integrating sustainability into university curricula. Karina Ibragimova, a specialist at Kazakhstan-German University, shared inspiring examples of student-driven sustainability projects that engage young people in environmental action.
Kazakh National Agrarian University (KazNAU) showcased its advancements in agroecology and sustainable agriculture, further solidifying its leadership in environmental education. This event highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing sustainability practices, and as the workshop came to a close, it became clear that partnerships across universities and regions are crucial in driving real change.
UI GreenMetric remains dedicated to promoting collaboration among higher education institutions globally and fostering discussions on sustainability. Stay connected with us on social media for updates on our initiatives and join our mission to build a greener, more sustainable future.
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Written by: Riska P. Hariyadi - Communication Specialist of UI GreenMetric
