Delegation from the Pennsylvania State University visited Al-Farabi KazNU to strengthen scientific and educational cooperation

On November 26, 2024, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University hosted a delegation from the Pennsylvania State University, consisting of Professor of Engineering Science and Mechanics Slava V. Rotkin and Professor of Biomedical Engineering, Chemistry, and Mathematics Igor Aronson. During the visit, a meeting was held with the Rector of KazNU, Zhanseit Tuymebaev, where the prospects for further cooperation in science and education were discussed, directly related to Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education, aimed at ensuring inclusive and equitable education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.

The meeting was also attended by Nursultan Doszhan, the Dean of the Faculty of Mechanics and Mathematics of KazNU. He emphasized the importance of strengthening ties between universities to expand academic and scientific exchanges and create new opportunities for students and faculty, which contributes to the preparation of intellectually resilient professionals capable of addressing global challenges, including those related to SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.

Following the official meeting, lectures on relevant topics were organized for students and faculty of KazNU. Professor Slava V. Rotkin delivered a lecture titled “The Application of Synthetic Micromachines for Cancer Therapy and Drug Delivery,” in which he discussed new advancements in medicine and bioengineering, as well as the potential applications of nanotechnology in medical research.

Professor Igor Aronson presented a lecture on “Near-Field Microscopy of 2D Materials: From Fundamental Physics of Polaritons to Device Applications,” addressing the issues of microscopy and the study of two-dimensional materials, as well as their applications in the creation of new devices based on polaritons.

The lectures were met with great interest from students, including those from the Faculty of Mechanics and Mathematics of KazNU, who actively participated in discussions and asked questions to the speakers. These events became an important part of the exchange of knowledge and experience between scientists from Kazakhstan and the USA, opening new horizons for students in the fields of innovative technologies and scientific research, which supports SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, contributing to strengthening international cooperation and the exchange of knowledge.

We are confident that this cooperation will serve as a solid foundation for the further development of scientific and educational programs, open new opportunities for students and researchers on both sides, and contribute to the creation of sustainable scientific and educational initiatives aimed at achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

We wish all participants success in their endeavors and look forward to long-term and fruitful cooperation, which will contribute to the realization of SDGs in the fields of education, sustainable communities, and international partnerships.