Such an experience was gained by Gaukhar Baubekova, Head of the Department of Natural Sciences at Baitursynuly University and a participant in the Bolashak International Scholarship Program under the scientific internship initiative for 500 researchers.
The internship took place in Sofia, Bulgaria, at the University of Forestry.
Together with her colleagues from the department, Chingis Tauakelov and Sevara Daribayeva, she explored modern approaches in the fields of environmental ecology and meteorology.
“For us, it was an opportunity to see how environmental research is organized abroad, become familiar with modern laboratories, and learn advanced methods of environmental analysis. Such experience is particularly valuable for educators and researchers,” noted Gaukhar Konyspayevna Baubekova.
During the internship, the researchers studied methods of chemical and physicochemical analysis of water, soil, and air, and participated in the Bulgarian national monitoring project “National Roadmap for the Development of Research Infrastructure (2020–2027).”
Their work extended beyond laboratory activities. Participants conducted field research, collected environmental samples, and carried out analyses in collaboration with Bulgarian colleagues.
“The experience of conducting environmental monitoring was especially interesting. We participated in field data collection, observed the organization of scientific research, and carried out analyses ourselves. This allowed us to gain a deeper understanding of European standards for environmental studies,” she added.
In addition to practical training, representatives of Kostanay Regional University participated in international conferences and scientific seminars focused on environmental education and environmental protection within the framework of the “Education – Science – Business” partnership model.
The knowledge and experience gained during the internship are now being actively integrated into the university’s educational process. The department has developed and introduced two new minor programs:
Modern analytical methods acquired during the internship are also being applied in graduate-level research projects.
“The greatest value of such programs lies not only in acquiring new knowledge but also in adapting it for our students and young researchers. We are currently implementing new approaches in the training of future science educators,” emphasized Gaukhar Konyspayevna.
Today, the Department of Natural Sciences is working on a scientific and educational project aimed at environmental monitoring through the integration of schools and higher education institutions. The project combines research and teaching activities, enabling students to participate in real-world environmental studies.
The results of the international internship have already been reflected in scientific publications. Research conducted by KRU scholars has been published in journals indexed in Scopus and recommended by the Committee for Quality Assurance in Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
“The Bolashak Program provides researchers with a unique opportunity for professional and scientific growth. It is an investment not only in individual specialists but also in the development of science and education at the university as a whole,” concluded the Head of the Department.
