ICESCO–Al-Farabi Center for Science Diplomacy to Be Established at KazNU
Al-Farabi Kazakh National University and the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) have announced the establishment of a Center for Science Diplomacy in Kazakhstan.
On 21 September 2026, within the framework of Science Summit 2026 in New York City, a High-Level Dialogue on Science Diplomacy was held, organized by ICESCO in partnership with the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
During the event, a Memorandum of Understanding between ICESCO and Al-Farabi KazNU was signed by Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of ICESCO, and Samgat Yermekbayev, Deputy Chairman of the Board of KazNU.
Under the memorandum, the ICESCO–Al-Farabi Center for Science Diplomacy will be established at the university’s campus in Almaty, Kazakhstan.
An International Platform for Science Diplomacy
The Center aims to advance sustainable South-South and triangular cooperation among Africa, Asia, and the Arab world, while strengthening ICESCO’s presence and engagement in Central Asia.
A key area of the Center’s work will be the development of a new generation of science diplomats and the implementation of annual educational and scientific programs, initiatives, and international forums.
The Center will promote:
- international educational and research programs;
- initiatives and forums on science diplomacy;
- knowledge and expertise exchange;
- international scientific cooperation;
- training programs in science diplomacy.
The Center will serve as a platform for triangular cooperation and knowledge exchange connecting Africa, Asia, and the Arab world.
Research, Expertise and Policy Support
The Center will also provide scientific advice to ICESCO, its Member States, and their National Commissions on policy development in the field of science diplomacy.
Its activities will be overseen by a joint steering committee comprising representatives of ICESCO and Al-Farabi KazNU, with the support of an international advisory board of distinguished scientists.
ICESCO will provide technical support and expertise and facilitate international cooperation through its network of Member States.
New Opportunities for KazNU
The establishment of the ICESCO–Al-Farabi Center for Science Diplomacy opens new opportunities for expanding Al-Farabi KazNU’s international scientific and educational cooperation and strengthening Kazakhstan’s international engagement in the field of science diplomacy.
The Center will bring together science, education, culture, and international cooperation, creating new opportunities for interaction among researchers, faculty members, students, and international experts.
Source: Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), 22 September 2026.
Other news
