U of A and Kozybayev University strengthen ties with dormitory opening and future program development
Vice President for University of Arizona International and Dean of International Education Dr. Jenny Lee, alongside a team of U of A delegates, recently traveled to Kazakhstan to engage in high-level discussions with Kozybayev University leadership about joint research initiatives and plans for future program development. The visit also featured the grand opening of two newly constructed dormitory buildings, which are set to enhance the student experience and support the growing dual-degree program between the two institutions.
Joining Dr. Lee on the trip was Vice President for the Division of Agriculture, Life and Veterinary Sciences, and Cooperative Extension, and the Charles-Sander Dean of the College of Agriculture, Life and Environmental Sciences Dr. Shane Burgess, Senior Director of Central and South Asia Affairs Ricky Salazar, and Assistant Director of International Education Katelyn Maragi.
In addition to the grand opening, Dr. Lee and U of A representatives held strategic meetings with Chairman of the Executive Board Rector Yerbol Issakayev, and Kozybayev University leadership to discuss joint scientific and research projects. One of the key outcomes of these discussions was the development of a roadmap for implementing long-term strategic partnerships in education and science. The collaboration aims to enhance academic cooperation, particularly in fields where both universities can leverage their strengths to make a global impact.
During the dormitory grand opening ceremony, Dr. Lee expressed her gratitude for the warm welcome and extended sincere thanks to the key figures who have made this partnership possible.
The meetings also addressed the strategic direction for launching new programs within the dual degree partnership. Both institutions explored how to expand the curriculum to better serve the needs of future students and strengthen ties in research and innovation. Dr. Lee emphasized the importance of building on the existing success of the partnership to create more opportunities for collaborative projects that contribute to global knowledge and innovation.
“Our goal is to continually evolve the dual degree program to meet the changing demands of the global landscape,” said Dr. Jenny Lee. “By expanding the curriculum and deepening our research collaboration, we are creating pathways for students to become leaders in their fields, equipped with the skills and perspectives necessary to make a meaningful impact worldwide.”
During the dormitory grand opening ceremony, Dr. Lee expressed her gratitude for the warm welcome and extended sincere thanks to the key figures who have made this partnership possible. “I am honored to be present for this milestone event,” she said, acknowledging the Akim of the North Kazakhstan region, Gauez Nurmukhambetov, for the regional government’s substantial support. She also thanked the Minister of Science and Higher Education, Sayasat Nurbek, for his leadership in advancing higher education in Kazakhstan, and Rector Yerbol Issakayev for his vision and dedication to the growth and success of Kozybayev University. The grand opening event concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a tour of the dormitory buildings.
One of the new dormitories for dual-degree program students.
The two dormitory buildings, funded by the local government, are designed to foster a supportive academic community for the dual-degree program students. One dormitory provides 306 beds, including two floors dedicated to visiting University of Arizona faculty, while the second dormitory accommodates 1,200 students. Both buildings boast state-of-the-art facilities, including co-working spaces, gyms, a cafeteria, reading rooms, and a medical center, all designed to foster both personal and academic growth. These facilities complement the previously funded laboratory building, which features over 70 modernized labs and classrooms equipped for cutting-edge research and education.
U of A leadership also had the opportunity to welcome a new cohort of dual-degree students, adding to the current 186 students already enrolled. This year, at least 94 more students will begin their studies in Data Science, Inclusive Education, and Applied Biotechnology, fields critical to addressing global challenges.
In a motivational speech to the incoming cohort, Dr. Lee encouraged the students to embrace the challenges ahead and take full advantage of the resources available at both universities. “You are part of a global community through this partnership,” she said. “Your studies here are not just an opportunity to earn a degree, but to broaden your perspectives and contribute meaningfully to society.”
This visit further solidifies the strong and evolving partnership between the University of Arizona and Kozybayev University, promising continued growth in academic, scientific, and cultural exchanges.