Kozybayev University and Harvest Agro to Train Specialists for North Kazakhstan’s Agro-Industrial Sector

President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has emphasized the need for technological modernization of the agro-industrial sector, the introduction of digital solutions, and the efficient use of water resources. This requires specialists with interdisciplinary expertise in agronomy, engineering, biotechnology, and digital technologies.

How to train such specialists for the modern agro-industrial sector was discussed by Kozybayev University and Harvest Agro Holding LLP during a visit by company representatives to the university.

Harvest Agro is an international company developing projects in crop production and modern agricultural technologies. It operates in more than 35 countries and is expanding its production activities in Kazakhstan.

The cooperation between Kozybayev University and Harvest Agro will focus on training specialists based on the real needs of the industry. The parties plan to develop practical training and internships for students, conduct joint research, and involve the business community in defining topics for undergraduate and master’s projects.

“We want the challenges faced by agricultural enterprises to become the basis for undergraduate and master’s projects, with interdisciplinary teams of agronomists, technologists, IT specialists, and researchers working together to address them. This approach allows students to work with real-world production challenges while they are still studying,” said Yerbol Issakayev, Chairman of the Executive Board – Rector of Kozybayev University.

The parties plan to develop projects in soil and water analysis, irrigated agriculture, digital monitoring, and improving crop production efficiency.

“Our goal is to implement 60 projects in 12 regions of Kazakhstan over the next five years. This requires specialists who understand agricultural technologies, engineering solutions, bioengineering, and artificial intelligence. That is why it is important to build human resources and expert capacity within Kazakhstan and work with universities that are developing new competencies,” emphasized Zhanar Kapenova, HR Director of Harvest Agro Holding LLP.

Company representatives visited the university’s laboratories and discussed prospects for joint research and applied projects for agricultural production.

Another area of cooperation will be the development of joint research projects involving Kozybayev University, Harvest Agro, and the University of Arizona, including the Arizona Genomics Institute. Rod Wing, Director of the Institute and a world-renowned scientist, discussed with colleagues opportunities for projects in genomics, biotechnology, crop production, and artificial intelligence.

Following the meeting, Kozybayev University and Harvest Agro Holding LLP signed a Memorandum of Cooperation.