Satbayev University becomes a platform for discussing the comprehensive Scientific and Technological development of Mangystau Region

On July 24, 2025, Satbayev University hosted a working meeting between representatives of the scientific community and the Akimat of the Mangystau Region to discuss the structure of a scientific and technological program aimed at the region’s sustainable development.

The program covers five strategic priorities: rational utilization of natural resources, development of the petrochemical sector, sustainable water supply, digitalization of environmental monitoring, and workforce development for high-tech industries.

To achieve these objectives, the program envisages the use of advanced tools such as geographic information systems (GIS), artificial intelligence technologies, and the development of educational and entrepreneurial infrastructure. These measures aim to enable digital transformation in governance, enhance the efficiency of natural resource management, and foster a resilient socio-economic environment.

The implementation of this scientific and technological program is expected to drive economic growth through resource processing, digitalization, and the mobilization of new resource bases. Anticipated outcomes include an increase in gross regional product, growth in fiscal revenues (including from mineral extraction tax, corporate income tax, and environmental levies), attraction of strategic and venture investments, as well as import substitution and the export of high value-added products.

The program also supports social sustainability by creating high-tech jobs in sectors such as petrochemistry, geology, IT, and water technologies. Special emphasis is placed on training qualified professionals through educational programs and internships, reducing socio-economic dependence on raw-material-based industries, and improving infrastructure in education, healthcare, and environmental protection.

In the ecological dimension, the program prioritizes the deployment of digital environmental monitoring systems using satellites, drones, and AI technologies; increasing water-use efficiency through closed-loop water systems; minimizing anthropogenic impact; and implementing carbon neutrality projects. It also includes the restoration of ecosystems and the development of ecotourism and nature-based services.

Institutional development focuses on building a digital platform for natural resource management utilizing GIS, digital twins, and integrated databases. The region is positioned to become a hub for technology transfer and integration into key strategic frameworks, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the ESG agenda, and national projects related to digitalization, science, and industrialization.

Thus, the program serves as a strategic foundation for the comprehensive transformation of the Mangystau Region into a center of scientific and technological leadership, sustainable development, and environmental resilience. It lays the groundwork for modernizing the region’s resource base, forming new production clusters, digitizing governance, training skilled personnel, and ensuring long-term growth. Beyond addressing current challenges, the project sets the architectural framework for the region’s future in line with the Kazakhstan 2050 Strategy, shaping a new image of Mangystau as a territory of high technology, environmental responsibility, and investment appeal.

The meeting brought together leading experts in geology, hydrogeology, petrochemistry, and digital technologies, including academician Malis Absametov; Director of the Institute of Geology and Oil and Gas Engineering, Yergali Auelkhan; Professor and NAS RK academician Auez Abetov; and Daniyar Alipbayev, Head of the Center for Collaboration with Subsoil Users.

The Akimat of Mangystau Region was represented by Daniyal Shmanov, Deputy Head of the Akim’s Office; Abai Estekbayev, Head of the Department of Industry and Industrial-Innovative Development; and Alibek Adilkhoja, Chief Specialist of the Department of Investment Policy and Industrial-Innovative Development.

The broad and expert composition of participants enabled a comprehensive analysis of the proposed initiatives and ensured a practical focus in the discussion. The meeting featured proposals on scientific support for key projects, the implementation of digital solutions, and workforce development for the region’s priority sectors. Both sides confirmed their commitment to further cooperation and the implementation of the discussed initiatives.

The event was organized as part of ongoing collaboration between the Center for Collaboration with Subsoil Users and the Akimat of the Mangystau Region on sustainable development matters.