Prospects for the Development of Genomic Technologies Discussed at the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan Sayasat Nurbek met with Rod Wing, Director of the Arizona Genomics Institute, and Yerbol Issakayev, Chairman of the Executive Board - Rector of Kozybayev University.

During the meeting, the parties discussed prospects for the development of agro-genomics, the introduction of modern genomic technologies into agriculture, and the expansion of international scientific cooperation. Special attention was given to the development of new rice and wheat varieties resistant to climate change, less dependent on water resources, highly productive, and possessing high nutritional value.

Professor Rod Wing presented a strategic vision for the development of genomic research in Kazakhstan, including both short-term and long-term measures. In particular, proposals were made to introduce the alternate wetting and drying method in Kazakhstan’s rice-growing regions, which would significantly reduce water consumption in rice cultivation.

The participants also discussed the assessment of the genetic diversity of Kazakhstan’s rice and wheat collections through sample resequencing, large-scale field phenotyping to identify the most promising climate-resilient varieties, and the establishment of a national training system in genetics, plant breeding, genomics, agronomy, irrigation management, and phytopathology.

As Professor Rod Wing noted, the implementation of these initiatives will enable Kazakhstan to strengthen its position as one of the key contributors to global food security in the long term.

According to Chairman of the Executive Board - Rector of Kozybayev University Yerbol Issakayev, cooperation with the Arizona Genomics Institute and the University of Arizona is focused on achieving practical results - from training a new generation of specialists to launching applied projects in plant breeding, food security, and sustainable agriculture.

The implementation of these initiatives is part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at strengthening Kazakhstan’s scientific potential and creating a modern genomic platform for the country’s agricultural development.