Training Future Hydrologists: From Theory to Real Water Management Facilities in Kazakhstan

From 1 to 20 June 2026, second-year students of the 6B05210 – Hydrology educational programme at the Department of Physical and Economic Geography, Institute of Natural Sciences, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, completed their academic practice under the supervision of PhD, Acting Associate Professor Алагуджаева Манира Аманкельдиевна.

The practice combined professional and field-based training. From 1 to 6 June and from 17 to 20 June, the students worked at the Akmola Branch of RSE “Kazvodkhoz”, where they became familiar with the activities of water management organisations, the operation of hydraulic engineering facilities, water accounting and distribution, and the work of specialists in the water sector.

A key part of the practice programme was a ten-day field trip to Pavlodar Region. During the field visit, future hydrologists visited the branches of RSE “Kazvodkhoz” and RSE “Kazhydromet”, Pavlodar River Port, Aluminium of Kazakhstan, hydraulic engineering facilities in May District, and natural sites of Bayanaul National Park, including Lakes Zhasybai, Toraigyr and Sabyndykol. The unique saline Lake Maraldy was also included as a separate research site. The students gained practical insight into the formation of the region’s water resources, the organisation of hydrometeorological observations, industrial water supply and modern approaches to water resource management.

An important event of the practice was a meeting held on 8 June 2026 at the Akmola Branch of RSE “Kazvodkhoz” with Imanaliyev Marat Ualikhanovich, Director of the Department of Science and Innovation of the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation of the Republic of Kazakhstan. During the meeting, the students presented their final works based on the results of the practice, demonstrated the professional skills they had gained, shared field observation materials and presented their own conclusions on the rational use of water resources and the operation of water management facilities.

Following the practice, the most active students received letters of appreciation from the Akmola Branch of RSE “Kazvodkhoz”. Out of 26 students, 7 were awarded for their strong level of preparation, initiative and responsible approach to practical assignments. The letters of appreciation served as recognition of the professional potential of future specialists in the water sector.

The final stage of the practice included the presentation and discussion of student reports, with the participation of T.S. Kenenbayeva, Adviser to the Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The discussion highlighted the students’ strong preparation, the quality of the completed work and the importance of practice-oriented learning in training modern hydrologists.

The academic practice enabled students not only to consolidate the theoretical knowledge gained at the university, but also to acquire their first substantial experience at water management facilities, gain a deeper understanding of their future profession and recognise the importance of hydrology for the country’s water security. Practices of this kind help shape a new generation of specialists whose professionalism will contribute to the sustainable management of Kazakhstan’s water resources.