The D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University (EKTU) has won a project under the Professional Education for Economic Growth Sectors in Central Asia (PECA) program, implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH. In collaboration with the Tajik State University of Commerce (TSUC), EKTU is launching a transnational tandem aimed at developing research services for businesses and strengthening cooperation between universities and the private sector.
The project, "Promoting Innovation through University Research: A Joint Initiative between Tajikistan and Kazakhstan", led by EKTU’s senior research fellow Aizhan Samambayeva, focuses on exchanging expertise and supporting TSUC in creating and implementing research solutions tailored to private companies. A key component of this partnership will be the training sessions organized by EKTU, where the university will share advanced methods of collaboration with businesses. The initiative’s goal is to adapt EKTU’s successful models to meet the specific needs of Tajik companies and enhance TSUC’s research activities.
The project’s key activities include:
- Conducting a 36-hour training program on delivering research services for private companies.
- Assessing the needs of Tajikistan’s private sector for scientific and research support.
- Developing recommendations for integrating research services into business practices and TSUC’s academic activities.
- Facilitating knowledge exchange between educational institutions in Tajikistan and Kazakhstan, as well as the private sector.
The PECA program supports reforms in vocational education systems across participating countries, with the goal of building capacity to train skilled professionals and leaders aligned with the needs of economic growth sectors in the region. The program emphasizes the pivotal role of the economy in preparing future professionals.
The partnership’s activities will be completed within four months, after which the results and recommendations will be presented to relevant stakeholders for further integration into educational programs and business processes.