Kazakh hydrogeologists have completed a six-month professional development program organized jointly with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Over the period, USGS experts introduced participants to modern technologies for monitoring, assessing, and modeling groundwater, and top trainees received international certificates. The Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation emphasized that cooperation with foreign partners will continue, reports infohub.kz.
The training was organized by the Groundwater Department of the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation of the Republic of Kazakhstan in cooperation with the USGS. Over six months, American specialists held online seminars for employees of the National Hydrogeological Service Kazhydrogeology and its regional branches. The program aimed to enhance professional skills and familiarize participants with modern international approaches to studying, monitoring, and sustainable use of groundwater resources.
“During a series of seminars, participants studied modern methods for monitoring groundwater conditions, their assessment and digital modeling, as well as issues of effective water resource management. In addition, USGS experts presented advanced global practices in hydrogeology that are currently used in various countries to ensure sustainable use of water resources,” the Kazakh Ministry of Water reported.
Upon completion of the training, the US Geological Survey awarded certificates to the 20 most active program participants from among Kazhydrogeology specialists and its branches. The international certificates confirmed successful completion of the program and active participation in educational activities. Additionally, certificates of appreciation were given to staff from the ministry’s Groundwater Department and the Department of Strategic Development who were involved in organizing and implementing the joint program.
Chairman of the Board of the National Hydrogeological Service Kazhydrogeology, Bolat Bekniyaz, emphasized the importance of international cooperation for the further development of the industry. “The Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation expresses gratitude to the US Geological Survey for fruitful cooperation and support in improving the qualifications of Kazakh specialists in the field of studying and managing groundwater resources. We will continue to cooperate with our international partners in exchanging best practices and joint training of personnel,” Bekniyaz said.
The ministry emphasized that the development of professional competencies and the adoption of international experience remain priority areas. The acquired knowledge and modern methods are planned to be used in further study, monitoring, and management of Kazakhstan’s groundwater resources, which will contribute to more efficient and sustainable use of strategically important water reserves.