On April 17, the International Engineering and Technological University (METU) hosted the official opening ceremony of the Center for Advanced Technologies, a modern scientific and innovation platform aimed at developing applied research, facilitating technology transfer, and training a new generation of engineering professionals. The establishment of the Center represents an important step in strengthening the university’s research infrastructure and aligns with key national policy priorities, including the development of artificial intelligence, robotics, and the digitalization of the economy.

The opening ceremony was attended by leading representatives of the scientific, governmental, and industrial communities, including Academician of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Kazakhstan and President of the National Engineering Academy of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Bakhytzhan Zhumagulov; Chief Director for Economics and Finance of JSC “Tau-Ken Samruk” and Academician, Ruslan Zhumagulov; Deputy Akim of Bostandyk District of Almaty, Almaz Kenesbay; Rector of METU, Darkhan Akpanbetov; and CEO of Global Korea Center, Hong Jinsun Shon.

As part of the event, an exhibition of scientific achievements was organized, showcasing current developments by the university’s researchers and students aimed at addressing real-sector challenges. Key projects included technologies for the logistics and safe handling of radioactive waste and materials; innovative seabuckthorn-based sorbents for environmental applications; developments for emergency services aimed at improving safety and response efficiency; wireless data transmission systems for hard-to-reach environments; green energy solutions, including wind turbines and solar panels; biotechnological developments such as the production of high-quality strawberry seedlings using in vitro methods and molecular markers; as well as advanced technologies for the production of bakery products with enhanced quality characteristics.

The presented developments are the result of concrete scientific research carried out within applied and interdisciplinary projects. They demonstrate a high level of technical maturity, as well as access to proprietary methodologies, technological solutions, and experimental infrastructure. Covering a wide range of fields—from engineering and IT to environmental science and biotechnology—these projects aim to solve practical challenges in industry and the social sector, underscoring their applied significance and implementation potential.

The opening of the Center for Advanced Technologies establishes a sustainable platform for the further development of such innovations, ensuring the transition from scientific ideas to ready-to-deploy technological solutions, implementation, and commercialization. The Center will also contribute to the training of highly qualified specialists equipped not only with theoretical knowledge but also with practical skills in modern technologies, capable of addressing contemporary challenges in the economy and industry.