VISIT TO THE UNIVERSITY OF READING

The University of Reading is an institution with rich academic traditions and a strong research foundation. In 2025, the university ranks 172nd in the QS World University Rankings and is among the top 30 universities in the UK, reaffirming its high standing.

The recent visit by Aliya Ospanova, Chairwoman of the Board of the Center for International Programs, to the University of Reading marked an important step towards strengthening cooperation between Kazakhstan and the UK. During the meeting with university representatives, including Sarah Marston (Head of the Institute of Education) and Professor Yota Dimitriadi, discussions focused on providing direct tuition discounts for "Bolashak" scholarship recipients and scientific internships.

Special attention was given to conducting scientific research in partnership with Kazakhstani research institutions. Aliya Ospanova noted:

“The university has advanced research programs that will help train specialists to address critical challenges in engineering, medicine, ecology, sustainable development, and the agro-industrial sector.”

She also met with "Bolashak" scholarship and scientific internship recipients, where they discussed improvements in educational conditions and scientific internships. Overall, the visit included discussions on simplifying the scholarship application process, increasing the transparency of the selection process, making programs more accessible to scholars from rural areas, and involving Kazakhstani scientists in research projects.

One of the scientific internship scholars, Yesenzhol Asylbekuly, highlighted the importance of the academic experience in the UK and the impact of the program on his professional growth.

Yesenzhol Asylbekuly shared: “The program gave me a unique opportunity to study and intern at one of the world’s best universities. The chance to study abroad has broadened my horizons and given me access to resources I could only dream of having back home. This is not just education, it's an investment in my future and the future of Kazakhstan.”

The University of Reading is recognized as a leader in environmental research and initiatives, including the Climate Stripes project by Professor Ed Hawkins, which has gained worldwide recognition. The university ranks first in the People & Planet ranking for its achievements in sustainable development, which is further confirmed by the Green Flag Award, received 14 years in a row for high standards in environmental protection and sustainable campus development. This demonstrates the university's commitment to providing students with not only quality education but also an environmentally conscious environment.

98% of the university’s research has received international recognition, making it a significant player in global scientific processes. Key areas include education, agriculture and forestry, food systems, linguistics, business and management, accounting and auditing, as well as healthcare. Among the university’s partners is the Royal Berkshire Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, which helps translate scientific discoveries into medical practice.

Currently, 59 "Bolashak" scholarship recipients are studying at the University of Reading, and 185 Kazakhstanis have completed their studies at the university.

An interesting fact: the University of Reading plays a key role in the global chocolate industry, as 97% of all cocoa trees worldwide are certified at its International Quarantine Centre.