Bridge Between Generations: Al-Farabi KazNU Hosted the International Olympiad 'PhysChem 2026

On February 25-26, 2026, the Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University (KazNU) hosted a landmark event for the scientific and educational community: the Annual Academician Kh.K. Ospanov International Physical Chemistry Olympiad "PhysChem 2026."

This year's event carried profound emotional and academic significance, as it was dedicated to the 90th anniversary of Professor Gulzhan Khasenovna Shabikova. Professor Shabikova has not only mentored generations of high-level specialists but also performed the monumental task of translating key global physical chemistry textbooks into the Kazakh language, thereby laying the cornerstone for the national school of chemistry.

A Global Intellectual Marathon

The Olympiad proved that science knows no borders. Despite the distances involved, representatives from leading universities across four countries gathered for this intellectual marathon. The competition was held in a hybrid online/offline format, ensuring transparency and equal opportunities for all participants.

Competing for the title of the best physical chemist were students from:

Kazakhstan: Al-Farabi KazNU, Buketov Karaganda University, Gumilyov ENU, Zhubanov ARU, and Abai KazNPU.

Russia: Novosibirsk State Technical University (NSTU).

Uzbekistan: National University of Uzbekistan named after Mirzo Ulugbek.

Kyrgyzstan: Kyrgyz State University named after I. Arabaev.

The program consisted of two rigorous rounds testing fundamental knowledge of thermodynamics and kinetics, as well as the ability to apply these principles to complex, non-standard problems.

The Results: Celebrating Excellence

Following the judging process, the top step of the podium was claimed by Mikhail Simonov, representing the host institution, Al-Farabi KazNU. Second place was shared by two students from Karaganda: Alexandra Zarutskaya and Zhanerke Mutigolla (Buketov KarU). Third place was awarded to an international group of laureates: Dauren Dauletbayev, Nurai Sovet (Zhubanov ARU), and Artem Laptinov (NSTU, Russia). Winners were honored with diplomas and monetary prizes to stimulate further scientific research.

Continuing the Legacy

The organization of such a large-scale event was made possible through the support of Professor Shabikova's family. Her daughters-Sholpan Taupikovna and Aiman Taupikyzy Sarbakanova-served as sponsors, continuing their mother's legacy of supporting talented youth.

A crucial role was played by the organizing committee, composed of Professor Shabikova's former students who are now recognized scientists themselves. This included professors and associate professors of the Department of Physical Chemistry, Catalysis, and Petrochemistry: A.K. Ospanova, A.K. Tusupbekova, G.A. Seilkhanova and A.K. Zhusupova, along with senior lecturers R.N. Azhigulova and S.M. Narenova.

It is noteworthy that the next generation of educators also actively participated in the organization, including B.S. Bakirova, Zh.B. Bekisanova, A.K. Kenesova, B.E. Savdenbekova, Kanat Amantayuly, and the department's dedicated Master's students.

"PhysChem 2026" was more than just a competition; it served as a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange between universities in Kazakhstan and the CIS. It confirmed that the heritage of Professor G.Kh. Shabikova lives on through her students and thrives in the successes of a new generation of chemists ready to tackle the global challenges of modern science.

Associate Professor of the Department of Physical Chemistry, Catalysis and Petrochemistry Zhusupova A.K.