Darkhan Ahmed-Zaki arrived in Kostanay as part of an operational group chaired by the Minister of Industry and Construction of the Republic of Kazakhstan, KanatSharlapayev. Primarily, he familiarized himself with the work of the humanitarian aid collection point located in one of the buildings of Baitursynuly University.
The students and staff of the university work tirelesslyfrom early morning until late at night to unload trucks with humanitarian aid. It comes from all almost over the world: from Zhambyl and Karaganda regions, Astana, Lisakovsk, and even Kyrgyzstan. To date, 174 tons of food and essential items have been received, which volunteers distribute among those affected by the floods. More than 750 people have already received assistance, and this number is growing by the hour.
The Vice-Minister personally met with residents of the villages of Michurino and Altynsarino (Alzhanka) in the Kostanay region, where he visited the operational headquarters providing assistance to those who was affected by the flood. After he got acquainted with the conditions of accommodation and assistance provided to the residents who are temporarily staying at the evacuation point in the dormitory of the Academy of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan named after Sh. Kabylbayev.
During the informal meeting with students of Baitursynuly University, Darkhan Ahmed-Zaki talked about the measures being taken by the state to eliminate the consequences of the flood.
Baitursynuly University made its contribution by exempting students whose homes were affected by the flood from paying for tuition and accommodation in university dormitories until September 1.
"Now this is a priority task," the Vice-Minister summarized. "The Head of state, Kassym-JomartTokayev, personally oversees and visits the flood-affected regions. A special commission identifies the individuals, assesses the damage people have suffered."
The next point was the Smart Center at Baitursynuly University, where discussions revolved around student and faculty startups and scientific developments. The Vice-Minister showed interest in a project to create a real-time monitoring system for water resources and environmental control of hydraulic engineering structures, which university scientists have been working on since last year.
"In accordance with recent events, this is very relevant," Darihan Ahmed-Zakinoted. "Scientific projects should bring benefits, work for the good of society. Now, as the water is running out and people return to their homes, it is important to learn lessons from the situation."
During a meeting of the Rectors of Kostanay universities, at the recommendation of the Vice-Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, a decision was made to establish a consortium of scientists based at Baitursynuly University. The consortium will be engaged in developing an early warning and flood prevention system in collaboration with specialized RI (Research Institute) and companies.
