The Future of Science Is in the Hands of Youth: A Student Initiative in Support of Sustainable Development

On April 7, the Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University hosted a scientific and educational event dedicated to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3 – “Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages”. The event was organized by first-year Master's students of the Chemistry program (English department) as part of their teaching practicum.

Young scientists from leading research institutions in Kazakhstan were invited as guest speakers. Zhumadilova Yana, a researcher at Nazarbayev University, delivered a presentation titled “Novel bifunctional radiological contrast agents for cancer cell detection”, where she shared research on the development of innovative agents that combine both diagnostic and therapeutic functions for the early detection of cancer.

Zhalgasbek Nurmaue, a researcher at the Research Center for Medicinal Plants, presented on the topic “Natural Magic: Beneficial Herbs and Their Effects”. His talk focused on the healing properties of medicinal plants, their potential for developing modern natural-based treatments, and the role of natural resources in disease prevention.

The audience included second-year undergraduate students and faculty members from the Department of Physical Chemistry, Catalysis, and Petrochemistry. Participants showed great interest in the presented topics, asked questions, exchanged ideas, and actively took part in an interactive quiz focused on healthy lifestyle habits. This added to the engaging and dynamic atmosphere of the event.

The Master's students who served as organizers were responsible for every stage of preparation – from designing and distributing invitations and decorating the venue to managing technical support and leading the interactive activities. Thanks to their teamwork and dedication, the event was held at a high level and became an important platform for knowledge exchange, expanding scientific horizons, and promoting the achievements of modern science in the context of health and well-being.

First-year Master’s students majoring in Chemistry