Memorial Plaque Unveiled in Honor of Academician Shakhbaz A. Yershin in Almaty
On September 26, 2026, a memorial plaque was unveiled on the building where the distinguished Kazakh scientist, Academician Shakhbaz Alimgereyevich Yershin, spent the last years of his life. The ceremony was held on the eve of the 100th anniversary of his birth, honoring his significant contribution to science and higher education.
The event brought together the academician’s wife, children, and relatives, as well as his colleagues, former students, representatives of the scientific community, and the leadership and faculty of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University.
On behalf of the university administration, Margulan Kassenovich Ibraimov, Vice-Rector for Research and Innovation, delivered a welcoming address. In his speech, he emphasized that Academician Yershin holds an important place in the history of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, where he made a significant contribution to scientific research and education.
The Vice-Rector highlighted Academician Yershin’s important contributions to the development of mechanics, thermal physics, hydrodynamics and aerodynamics, fluid and gas mechanics, and the application of scientific research to practical challenges in the oil and gas industry.
Academician Yershin authored more than 300 scientific publications and supervised 29 Candidate of Sciences dissertations, while five of his students later earned the Doctor of Sciences degree. A significant milestone in his academic career was the establishment of the Department of Continuum Mechanics in 1978, founded on his initiative. The department continues to be one of Kazakhstan’s leading centers for education and research.
Warm memories of the distinguished scholar were shared by his colleagues, Professors Z.A. Mansurov, G.B. Sheryazdanov, and A.A. Temirgaliyev, as well as by his former students, including U.K. Zhapbasbayev, A. Kaltaev, and others. The speakers remembered him not only as an outstanding scientist and educator, but also as an inspiring mentor, an effective organizer of scientific work, and a person known for his integrity and wisdom. His dedication to science and education influenced generations of researchers.
The unveiling of the memorial plaque expresses deep respect and gratitude for Academician Shakhbaz A. Yershin’s important contribution to the development of science and higher education in Kazakhstan. His scientific achievements, academic work, and contribution to the development of a scientific school continue to inspire new generations of researchers.
Al-Farabi Kazakh National University remains committed to preserving the memory of its outstanding scholars whose achievements have become an important part of the university’s history and Kazakhstan’s scientific heritage.
