In the vast hinterland of Central Asia, a cross-border dialogue on science and education quietly unfolds. Representatives from the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Kazakhstan and the China Association for Science and Technology sat together, discussing topics ranging from higher education reform to artificial intelligence cooperation, from talent exchange to achievement transformation. The scientific and technological ties between the two countries have become increasingly close through frank exchanges.

On September 2, 2026, Saasat Nurbek, Acting Minister of Science and Higher Education of Kazakhstan, met with a delegation led by He Junke, Vice Chairman in charge of daily work of the China Association for Science and Technology. Wang Shurui, Director of the Training and Talent Service Center of the China Association for Science and Technology, and Li Yuqi, Executive Vice Chairman of the Shaanxi Association for Science and Technology, jointly participated in this meeting. Sayasat Nurbek introduced the key reforms being implemented by the Ministry, with the aim of improving Kazakhstan's higher education and research system. Both sides also focused on discussing the construction plan of the education center, which is expected to become an important carrier for expanding cross-border scientific and educational cooperation in Central Asia.

He Junke introduces the business layout and key projects of the China Association for Science and Technology. The China Association for Science and Technology is a non-profit non-governmental organization that gathers domestic scientific research and engineering talents. Its subordinate institutions have connected to more than 250 international scientific and technological organizations. During the meeting, both sides finalized the main areas of follow-up cooperation between the departments, including academic exchanges, joint implementation of science and technology projects, and deepening cooperation in science popularization work, scientific and educational construction, and the improvement of scientific literacy among the general public. Keywords: Kazakhstan, China Association for Science and Technology, scientific and educational cooperation, academic exchange, talent cultivation, scientific research internship

Both sides also discussed the feasibility of drafting a joint agreement on science, education, and humanities cooperation, studied implementation measures, and brought academic and business ties between researchers and technical practitioners from the two countries closer. Sayasat Nurbek proposed to refine the cooperation plan around the exchange and internship of scientific researchers, artificial intelligence, technology transfer, and engineering talent cultivation. This science and education exchange between China and Kazakhstan also adds a new practical focus for science, technology and humanities cooperation under the framework of the the Belt and Road Initiative.Editor/Gong Ziwei