Republican Scientific and Practical Conference with international participation "Innovation, Science, Interdisciplinary Partnership in Social Protection system: from research to practice"

Dr Dilyara Urmanova, Director of the Ban Ki-moon Institute for Sustainable Development at Farabi University, delivered a presentation at the Republican Scientific and Practical Conference with international participation, “Innovation, Science and Interdisciplinary Partnership in the Social Protection System: From Research to Practice.”

The conference was held with the participation of the Minister of Labour and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan and brought together representatives of government institutions, universities, research organisations and the social protection sector.

Dr Urmanova presented during the panel session “Human Resources Capacity in the Social Sector: Education, Professional Development and Professional Competencies.” Her presentation, entitled “New Competencies, Inclusive Education and Digital Transformation,” focused on the changing requirements for professionals working in social protection and related public services.

She highlighted that digital transformation requires more than the introduction of new technologies. It also demands new professional competencies, including digital literacy, interdisciplinary collaboration, data-informed decision-making, inclusive communication and the ability to design services around the needs of different groups within society.

Particular attention was given to inclusive education as an essential foundation for developing a professional workforce capable of responding to social diversity. Universities have an important responsibility to create accessible learning environments, involve students with special educational needs in practical projects and prepare all graduates to apply the principles of inclusion in their future professional activities.

Dr Urmanova also emphasised the importance of closer cooperation between universities, public institutions, research organisations and employers. Such partnerships help align educational programmes and professional development courses with the real needs of the social protection system and support the transition from academic research to practical solutions.

The presentation reflected Farabi University’s commitment to integrating sustainable development, inclusion and digital innovation into education and institutional practice. These priorities contribute directly to SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

The conference provided an important platform for developing interdisciplinary approaches to strengthening the human resources capacity of Kazakhstan’s social sector and improving the quality, accessibility and effectiveness of social services.