Astana, Kazakhstan – More than 120 researchers, scientists, representatives of research institutes, universities and other organisations working in the field of sustainable energy gathered at the regional workshop “Horizon Europe in Central Asia: Promoting Research Excellence and Collaboration for Sustainable Energy”.
The event was organised jointly by the Sustainable Development Solutions Network of Kazakhstan, Nazarbayev University, Science Fund of Kazakhstan, the European Union (EU) funded project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)” and Chevron.
Horizon Europe is the European Union’s (EU) framework research and innovation programme, which provides funding for projects in the EU Member States and the third countries, including Central Asian republics. Total 33 projects and 47 organisations in Central Asia have already benefited from participation in Horizon Europe and its predecessor Horizon 2020.
The workshop aimed to raise awareness about the programme and, in particular, its Cluster 5 “Climate, Energy and Mobility”, as well as opportunities it offers for the research community in the region. It showcased funding schemes, projects and initiatives that match the priorities of stakeholders in Central Asia. The national and international speakers presented how Horizon Europe can support addressing current challenges related to the climate change and the need to promote and develop sustainable energy.
Addressing the participants, Ms Aliya Sembayeva, Deputy Chairman of Science Fund JSC, said: “International collaboration plays a pivotal role in addressing global challenges like climate change and ensuring sustainable energy, as these issues surpass geographical boundaries”.
Ms Ilze Purina, SECCA Key Expert, added: “The events like this help to build a network of researchers and professionals to maximise the impact of Horizon Europe in Central Asia and present them with a unique opportunity to harness the power of networking, collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing across borders. The EU’s SECCA project will continue assisting the countries of the region in the creation of pre-conditions and building capacity for more active participation in the Horizon Europe programme”.
