International Office: Strengthening Cultural, Scientific and Educational Ties
The International Office and its partnership with other structural divisions and faculties of the university play a key role in organizing active and fruitful activities of students, facilitating their integration into the cultural, scientific and educational space. The main goal of the office is to ensure interaction between Kazakhstan and international students, as well as to involve them in various projects that enrich their academic experience, expand their horizons and promote professional and personal development, as well as contribute to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).
One of the important areas of work of the international office is the popularization of environmental initiatives and projects, such as the Green Campus and the Green Office. These programs aim to reduce the university's environmental impact, increase environmental awareness among students and staff, and create a sustainable campus environment. Through these projects, students are involved in developing resource conservation strategies, implementing waste recycling systems, and improving the university ecosystem.
In addition, the International Office supports initial volunteer projects that encourage social responsibility and student engagement. Participants in volunteer initiatives collect plastic waste and take part in greening the city and campus area. These projects not only help improve the environment, but also create a sense of community and a desire for positive change in students. The International Office also organizes cultural events that help Kazakhstan and international students better understand each other’s traditions and create a harmonious intercultural environment. These events include festivals, theme nights, excursions and master classes that promote the exchange of knowledge and experience. These initiatives serve as a platform for building strong friendships and strengthening international cooperation.
Scientific and educational activities are another important area of work of the international office. Students are actively involved in scientific conferences, workshops and seminars that help develop their research skills and provide opportunities to interact with experts and leaders in various fields of knowledge. Joint educational projects help expand students' opportunities and prepare them for the challenges of the global professional environment.
The International Office thus becomes an important link that unites the efforts of students, faculty and university partners to create a dynamic and diverse academic atmosphere.The office's work contributes to the comprehensive development of students, strengthening international relations and building an environmentally sustainable future. These initiatives help every student become part of the global educational and cultural ecosystem, as well as engage young people in the implementation of sustainable development goals.
Meeting of Students with APOLLO e. V. representatives
KAZNARU AND APOLLO E.V.: ADVANCING GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION AND KNOWLEDGE EXCHANGE THROUGH INTERNSHIPS IN GERMANY
The Kazakh National Agrarian Research University (KazNARU) has established a dynamic and impactful partnership with APOLLO e.V. (Association for Cooperation in Ecology, Agriculture, and Rural Development, Germany). Through this collaboration, KazNARU’s International Office plays a central role in organizing and supporting student internships in Germany, offering transformative experiences rooted in sustainability, equality, and knowledge exchange. Here are six key contributions of the International Office:
1. PROMOTING EQUALITY AND ACCESS TO GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES
The International Office ensures that internship opportunities with APOLLO e.V. are accessible to students from diverse backgrounds. By facilitating transparent selection processes and offering preparatory support, the office promotes equality in access to international education. All costs—travel, accommodation, visa support, and language training—are covered by APOLLO, removing financial barriers and enabling inclusive participation.
2. FACILITATING KNOWLEDGE EXCHANGE AND CULTURAL IMMERSION
Internships in Germany offer students hands-on experience in modern agricultural practices while immersing them in a new cultural and linguistic environment. The International Office works jointly with “Institute for Green and Sustainable Development (KazNARU)” and prepares students through orientation sessions and language courses, ensuring they are equipped to engage meaningfully. This exchange fosters mutual understanding and enriches both Kazakh and German agricultural communities.
3. HIGHLIGHTING THE IMPACT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION ON PROFESSIONAL GROWTH
The internship program is more than a travel opportunity—it’s a structured educational experience. Students gain practical skills, exposure to sustainable farming technologies, and insights into rural development strategies. The International Office tracks student progress and encourages reflection on how these experiences contribute to long-term career development and academic excellence.
4. INTEGRATING ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION INTO PRACTICAL TRAINING
Environmental education is a core theme of the APOLLO internship. Students work on farms and in rural communities that prioritize ecological sustainability, biodiversity, and climate-conscious agriculture. The International Office ensures that participants understand the environmental goals of the program and encourages them to apply these principles in their future work in Kazakhstan.
5. ORGANIZING ON-CAMPUS ENGAGEMENT AND SELECTION EVENTS
Each year, the International Office hosts APOLLO representatives at KazNARU for student consultations, presentations, and selection interviews. These events are open to all interested students and serve as a platform for direct engagement with international experts. The office coordinates logistics, promotes the events widely, and supports students throughout the application process.
6. BUILDING LONG-TERM INSTITUTIONAL PARTNERSHIPS
The collaboration with APOLLO e.V. reflects KazNARU’s broader commitment to internationalization. The International Office actively nurtures this partnership by maintaining regular communication, co-developing program content, and exploring new areas of cooperation. This sustained relationship enhances KazNARU’s reputation as a global leader in agricultural education and rural innovation.
CONCLUSION
Through its partnership with APOLLO e.V., KazNARU’s International Office exemplifies how universities can promote equality, environmental education, and global knowledge exchange. By sending students to Germany for immersive internships, the university not only empowers future leaders but also strengthens international ties in pursuit of sustainable development. KazNARU champions environmental education through campaigns aligned with SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).
The Role of the International Office at KazNARU in Organizing the Friendship Day of Nations
The International Office at KazNARU plays a vital role in fostering intercultural understanding, promoting equality, and celebrating diversity through its active support of the annual Friendship Day of Nations. This vibrant event brings together national and international students to showcase their cultures, traditions, and shared values. Here are six key ways the International Office contributes to its success:
1. Empowering Student Leadership and Collaboration
The International Office encourages both national and international students to take the lead in planning and executing the event. By forming inclusive organizing committees, students develop leadership, teamwork, and cross-cultural communication skills. This collaborative model promotes equality by ensuring that every voice is heard and valued, regardless of background or nationality.
2. Facilitating Knowledge Exchange Across Cultures
Friendship Day of Nations serves as a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange. The International Office supports students in preparing cultural exhibitions, interactive workshops, and presentations that highlight the richness of global traditions, languages, and histories. These activities foster mutual respect and curiosity, helping students learn from one another in meaningful and engaging ways.
3. Highlighting the Impact of Education on Global Citizenship
Through speeches, panel discussions, and storytelling sessions, the International Office works jointly with “Institute for Green and Sustainable Development (KazNARU)” emphasizes how education empowers individuals to become global citizens. By showcasing student experiences and academic journeys, the event illustrates the transformative impact of education in shaping inclusive, informed, and socially responsible communities.
4. Promoting Environmental Education and Sustainability
In recent years, the International Office at KazNARU jointly with the “Institute for Green and Sustainable Development (KazNARU)” has integrated environmental education into the Friendship Day of Nations. Students present eco-friendly practices from their home countries, organize sustainability-themed games, and share ideas for climate action. This not only raises awareness but also inspires collective responsibility for protecting our shared planet.
5. Creating Safe and Inclusive Spaces for Dialogue
The International Office ensures that the event remains a safe space for open dialogue and cultural expression. By offering translation support, accessibility accommodations, and inclusive programming, the office guarantees that all students—regardless of language or ability—can participate fully. This commitment to inclusivity reinforces the values of equality and mutual understanding.
6. Building Lasting Networks and Institutional Partnerships
Beyond the event itself, the International Office uses Friendship Day of Nations as a springboard for deeper engagement. It connects students with international alumni, embassies, and partner institutions, fostering long-term relationships and collaborative opportunities. These networks enhance the university’s global outreach and strengthen its role in international education.
Conclusion
The Friendship Day of Nations is more than a celebration—it is a reflection of the university’s commitment to diversity, sustainability, and global learning. Through the dedicated efforts of the International Office, this event continues to inspire students, promote equality, and demonstrate the profound impact of education in building a more connected and compassionate world.
KazNARU Volunteers for SDG: the Areas of Activities
Kazakh National Agrarian Research University (KazNARU) actively promotes the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by mobilizing its volunteer network to support impactful initiatives. Volunteers engage in key areas of activities:
1. Environmental Sustainability
KazNARU volunteers champion environmental preservation through campaigns aligned with SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land). Activities include tree planting drives, cleaning campaigns, and protecting natural habitats. For example, the "Clean Kazakhstan" initiative sees volunteers collaborate with local authorities to restore polluted rivers and urban green spaces, fostering a cleaner, healthier environment. These efforts inspire eco-consciousness among students and community members alike.
2. Educational Outreach
In line with SDG 4 (Quality Education), volunteers organize workshops, seminars, and mentoring programs for rural schools. By providing educational resources and opportunities for disadvantaged youth, KazNARU volunteers nurture the next generation of leaders. Activities focus on agricultural education, climate awareness, and sustainable practices, addressing both local and global challenges. Educational outreach reinforces the transformative power of learning in achieving sustainable development.
3. Social Responsibility
Promoting SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), volunteers at KazNARU lead social inclusion projects. They provide support to vulnerable groups, including senior citizens and persons with disabilities, through healthcare assistance and community-building events. Regular blood donation drives and health awareness campaigns reflect the university’s commitment to fostering a society where no one is left behind.
4. Food Security
Aligned with SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), volunteers actively address food insecurity by organizing food distribution programs and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Collaborations with local farmers enable the university to share expertise in efficient, eco-friendly farming techniques. These initiatives aim to eliminate hunger, reduce food waste, and ensure equitable access to nutritious food for all.
5. Engaging local communities
Volunteer regularly organize “Day of Cleaning" events embracing the principles of *SDG 15 (Life on Land)* and *SDG 13 (Climate Action)*, the day's central theme was the protection of nature and the renewal of the inner soul.
Students from our university participated in the city-wide cleanup initiative "Clean Kazakhstan," led by the mayor of the city. Together, they contributed to achieving *SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities)* by cleaning the banks of the Esentai River, planting palm trees, and removing waste from the surrounding areas, promoting a cleaner and healthier environment. They demonstrated the power of collective action in preserving nature and raising awareness about environmental issues.
This impactful event also featured art stars and renowned singers who supported the initiative by presenting a lively concert program, adding a festive spirit to the day.
Cleaning Day always lives a lasting impression as a celebration of societal engagement and the strengthening of civic responsibility. Such activities embody the values of *SDG 4 (Quality Education)* by inspiring students and young people to take action against environmental and social challenges. It fostered a sense of unity and responsibility among participants, teaching them the importance of collaboration for a sustainable future.
KazNARU volunteers exemplify a unified drive toward achieving the SDGs, strengthening community resilience, and creating a sustainable future.
Clean University - Clean Future!
Cleaning Day at KazNARU : A Symbol of Renewal and Prosperity