A Glimpse into Our Green Campus: The International Office and the Institute For Green And Sustainable Development Hosted a Walk and tree planting in The National park

The International Office, in collaboration with the esteemed Institute For Green And Sustainable Development, warmly invited all international students, faculty, and staff to participate in a unique and enriching experience: a free guided walk through the verdant heart of our university campus. This initiative not only offered a chance to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding us but also highlighted our unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and the promotion of voluntary engagement within our academic community.
This special program was inspired by a recent impactful event where the ALMA project team, working closely with the International Office, successfully planted new seedlings of the remarkable Sievers apple tree. This significant activity took place on April 21st, 2025, within the picturesque Turgen branch of the Ile-Alatau State National Natural Park, as a vital contribution to the nationwide ecological campaign known as "Clean Kazakhstan." Over one hundred precious seedlings of this iconic tree were carefully planted during this initiative, symbolizing our dedication to a greener future.
The tree planting event witnessed enthusiastic participation from a diverse group of individuals, including dedicated university scientists, engaged students, and our valued international learners, all under the expert guidance of Ardak Kozhabekova, the esteemed Director of the Kazakh-German Institute for Ecosystems and Biodiversity Conservation. This collective effort underscored the importance of collaborative action in addressing environmental challenges and fostering a sense of shared responsibility.
As Ms. Kozhabekova eloquently stated, "The primary objective of this meaningful campaign, conducted under the national 'Clean Kazakhstan' initiative, was to actively contribute to the enhancement of our nation's ecological well-being, safeguard our invaluable natural heritage, and cultivate a heightened awareness of environmental responsibility among our community members. Furthermore, by introducing new Sievers apple tree seedlings, we aspired to expand our existing apple orchards, enriching our landscape and contributing to biodiversity."
The ALMA project team, in close partnership with the Institute For Green And Sustainable Development, was deeply engaged in crucial work aimed at protecting the unique biological diversity of the Sievers apple tree. This ancient wild apple species, which first appeared on the territory of Kazakhstan thousands of years ago, held the distinguished title of being the ancestor of all cultivated apple varieties found across the globe. This remarkable lineage firmly established Kazakhstan as the original homeland of all apples.
The International Office and the Institute For Green And Sustainable Development hosted a free walk, offering all members of our international community the opportunity to witness firsthand the tangible manifestations of our green campus initiatives. This was an invaluable opportunity to learn more about the ecological significance of the Sievers apple tree, understand the ongoing efforts of the Institute For Green And Sustainable Development, and connect with fellow international students, faculty, and staff who shared an appreciation for nature and sustainability. Moreover, participating in this walk actively promoted voluntary movement and fostered a stronger sense of community within our university. Information regarding the schedule for these insightful campus walks was previously shared, and we eagerly anticipated the participation of many.