Scientists from KazNU and Hong Kong realize the SDG project

Scientists from Al-Farabi Kazakh National University and Hong Kong Polytechnic University are implementing an international project to promote collaborative action research with children, youth and families living in poverty in Kazakhstan and Central Asia as part of SDG initiatives.

The joint project of Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and KazNU is dedicated to practical research on the needs of children, youth and their families living in poverty in Kazakhstan. 

Gulmira Abdraimova, a well-known Kazakhstani scientist, doctor of sociological sciences, professor, director of the Center for Sociological Research and Social Engineering, is leading the project from KazNU. Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is represented by KU Hok Bun - Associate Professor of Applied Social Sciences, Director of China and Global Development Network, Co-Director of China Social Work Research Center of Peking University and PolyU. In addition, the Center for Sociological Research is making a significant contribution to the development of social work and related education in Kazakhstan and other Central Asian countries.

The project offers great opportunities for improving social policy, education and practice in relation to children, youth and poor families in Kazakhstan and Central Asia. Both young scientists of the department, doctoral students of "Sociology" and "Social Work" specialties, and practitioners are involved in the work. Already now the practice sites are three units of social services in Almaty: Rehabilitation Center "Association of Parents of Disabled Children", PF "Center for Social and Psychological Rehabilitation and Adaptation for Women and Children "Rodnik" and orphanage "Kovcheg".

It is important to emphasize that the research is relevant for modern Kazakhstan not only in scientific, but also in practical aspect, and corresponds to the global goals in the field of sustainable development, which are a kind of call to action coming from all countries (SDG 1 "Widespread eradication of poverty in all its forms").

Professor Gulmira Abdraimova's project activities facilitate academic and professional exchange between social work educators, practitioners and policy makers in Hong Kong, mainland China, Kazakhstan, Central Asia and the international community of social workers on issues related to families living in poverty.