In a visionary move aimed at fortifying Kazakhstan's capacity to manage and utilize its vital water resources, the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation is proposing a significant expansion of specialties within higher and postgraduate education programs. This strategic initiative recognizes the critical role that effective water management plays in the nation's sustainable development.
The proposed adjustments encompass a spectrum of disciplines, reflecting a holistic approach to address the diverse challenges and opportunities inherent in Kazakhstan's water sector. From enhancing infrastructure through hydraulic engineering to ensuring the sustainability of land and agriculture, the envisioned specialties are poised to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of navigating the complexities of water supply, drainage, and resource management.
Kazakhstan's forward-looking plan includes practical training, international collaboration, and initiatives to elevate the professional standing of individuals in the field. As Kazakhstan positions itself for a future that prioritizes water resources, this educational reform stands as a testament to the nation's commitment to fostering expertise, innovation, and responsible stewardship in the domain of water.
QazMonitor studied the proposal of the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation to see what new specialties are going to be introduced and how they will impact the area in the future.
The proposal to make adjustments to the current classification of specialties includes the following majors:
Hydraulic engineering construction and construction
Land reclamation and irrigated agriculture
Water supply and drainage of settlements
Water resources management
Hydraulic reclamation
Automation and management of technological processes in the water sector
Innovative technologies and their application in the water sector
Hydropower facilities on irrigation systems
Mechanization of hydromelioration works
Economics of water economy
Similar majors are proposed to be included in master's and doctoral programs. It is planned that students from specialized universities will undergo practical training in organizations under the Ministry, where various types of hydraulic structures are available.
Additionally, the Ministry plans to initiate the allocation of grants for the training of Kazakhstani students abroad in water sector specialties. Professional development centers for water sector workers will also be organized. In cooperation with international partners at local universities, there are plans to introduce another new specialty - Water Diplomacy.
To address the issue of staff shortage, the Ministry intends to take necessary measures to improve training and advanced training programs for specialists in the field of water management, utilization, and protection. The matter of increasing salaries for water professionals will be considered separately. Meanwhile, successful experiences from other countries will be adopted, and international contacts are actively being established for this purpose.
