Open Lectures by Professors from the University of Calgary and Hong Kong Polytechnic University held at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University

On October 13–14, 2025, the Department of Sociology and Social Work of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University hosted open lectures by Professor Dora M. Y. Tam from the Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary (Canada), and Professor Hok-Bun Ku from the Department of Applied Social Sciences, Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU).

The event brought together students, master’s and PhD candidates, and faculty members, marking an important milestone in developing international academic cooperation.

Professor Dora Tam shared her 35 years of experience in both practical and academic social work, presenting her project “Youth and Children Mental Health (YCMH)”, focused on the mental well-being of children and youth.

Professor Hok-Bun Ku delivered a lecture titled “Social Work of Reconciliation in Hong Kong’s Practice”, emphasizing the role of social work in reconciliation and community integration in Hong Kong.

Both lectures are closely aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), highlighting the global importance of social work in promoting Sustainable Development.

As part of the visit, a joint seminar was held with first-year PhD students in Social Work and Sociology. Conducted in a “question-and-answer” format, the seminar provided an opportunity for doctoral students to present their research projects and receive valuable feedback from the guest professors.

The partnership between the Department of Sociology and Social Work of Al-Farabi KazNU and PolyU opens new prospects for academic exchange and international collaboration in the field of social work.

Publication date: October 15, 2025

Organized by: Department of Sociology and Social Work, Center for Sociological Research and Social Engineering