Ban Ki-moon Institute for Sustainable Development at Al-Farabi KazNU takes part in Global Sustainability Dialogue

On May 13, 2024, with the participation of rectors and presidents of world universities, the “Meeting of Regional University Presidents” (UPM) was held, in which the Ban Ki-moon Institute for Sustainable Development at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University participated. This global dialogue on sustainable development provided KazNU with the opportunity to emphasize its strong commitment to the principles of sustainable development and its role in shaping a better future.

The meeting featured world-renowned experts, including Prof. Jeffrey Sachs (President of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network), Stefania Giannini (UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Education), Leire Pajín (Candidate for the European Parliament from Spain), and Zakia Khattabi (Belgian Minister of Climate, Environment, Sustainable Development, and the “Green Deal”). Participants discussed ways in which higher education can contribute to positive changes for sustainable development.

KazNU’s participation in this event demonstrates Kazakhstan’s commitment to global sustainable development efforts. By actively participating in the UPM, KazNU also underscored its dedication to promoting sustainable development through education, research, and community engagement.

During the meeting, an important announcement was made regarding the upcoming Summit of the Future, scheduled for September 2024. The Summit of the Future is a unique opportunity for governments and higher education institutions to strengthen cooperation in addressing critical challenges and closing gaps in global governance, including those related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the United Nations Charter. The Summit will also serve as a platform for implementing updates that will enhance the potential for positive impacts on people’s lives. Building on the outcomes of the SDG Summit held in 2023, UN member states will explore ways to lay the foundations for more effective global cooperation, capable of addressing both current challenges and emerging threats in the future. KazNU eagerly anticipates the opportunity to share its experiences and ideas at this event, further solidifying the university’s reputation as an active participant in the global dialogue on sustainable development.

Concluding the UPM, KazNU, along with other participants, emphasized the importance of collaboration and knowledge exchange in addressing sustainable development challenges. As a leading research university in Kazakhstan, KazNU remains committed to its mission of promoting positive change and contributing to global sustainable development efforts.