Kozybayev University Students Attend Official Reception at the U.S. Embassy

Students enrolled in the dual-degree programs of Kozybayev University and the University of Arizona attended an official diplomatic reception at the Embassy of the United States in Kazakhstan. Together with the Chairman of the Management Board and Rector of Kozybayev University, they took part in the special event marking a significant historical milestone — the 250th anniversary of the independence of the United States of America. The high-level status of the event was underscored by the presence of Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan Olzhas Bektenov and Minister of Science and Higher Education Sayasat Nurbek. The University of Arizona was represented by Ricky Salazar, Senior Director of Educational Partnerships.

The invitation extended to students from the North Kazakhstan university to an event of such a high level was another testament to Kozybayev University’s special status as a leading center for international education in the region.

During the reception, U.S. Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Kazakhstan, Her Excellency Julie Stufft, held a personal meeting with university representatives. She highly praised the academic standards of Kozybayev University and emphasized the unique nature of the international educational project being implemented. The Ambassador sincerely congratulated the students on successfully completing their studies, highlighted their strong potential, and wished them great success in their future professional and academic careers.

In recognition of the long-standing partnership, graduates of the Kozybayev University International Campus invited the Ambassador to Petropavlovsk to attend the historic graduation ceremony for 31 graduates of the dual-degree programs. On July 11, the university will become the first in Kazakhstan to graduate specialists from these unique dual-degree programs.

The students also had the opportunity to speak with Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan Olzhas Bektenov. Kozybayev University graduate Amir Agzamov spoke about the tremendous academic experience he gained in Arizona. He emphasized that integration into the international educational environment not only enabled the students to successfully defend highly challenging graduation projects in Data Science and Biotechnology, but also provided valuable opportunities to expand their global social networks.

On behalf of all graduates, Amir expressed his gratitude to the Head of State for comprehensive support of this unique educational initiative.

“My bachelor’s degree in biotechnology has truly been a global experience. The dual-degree program opened doors to leading scientific centers around the world: I completed internships in Singapore and Saudi Arabia, and spent the previous semester studying at the University of Arizona itself. We will soon receive our long-awaited diplomas and are ready to apply the advanced knowledge we have gained to contribute to the development of Kazakhstan’s economy and science,” the graduate concluded.