Biology is the language spoken by the future.
Recently, during a Russian language class, first-year students of the “Biology” program (6B10205), group No. 5 (instructors: Seitkazy E.A., Barkibaeva R.R.), held a round table dedicated to the discussion of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goal No. 4: “Quality Education.” During the event, students of the Kazakh-medium department expressed their views on this issue in Russian.
The round table opened with an introductory speech by the moderator, Bakhyt Meruert, who outlined the goals and objectives of the meeting as well as the participants’ positions. The host then gave the floor to the first speaker, Bakhytkali Ayauzhan, who emphasized that sustainable development is possible through a balance of three key components: economic growth, social responsibility, and environmental sustainability. She also noted that the 17 Sustainable Development Goals were adopted by all UN member states and are aimed at ensuring balanced progress in three main dimensions: economic growth, social integration, and environmental protection.
Answering the question of what sustainable development means in simple terms, she referred to Gro Harlem Brundtland’s definition, describing it as a model of progressive societal development that ensures the satisfaction of the vital needs of all people.
Next, student Bakhyt Aiaru pointed out that for a biology student in Kazakhstan, “quality education” is not just a diploma but a gateway to a world where global challenges are addressed. In her opinion, although education is listed as Goal No. 4 among the SDGs, it serves as the foundation for ecology, medicine, and food security.
Continuing this idea, student Akbota Asker noted that without deep fundamental knowledge in genetics or molecular biology, it is impossible to develop domestic vaccines or drought-resistant crop varieties. Therefore, in her view, quality education is a matter of national security.
Student Amerken Umit emphasized that SDG No. 4 implies access to advanced knowledge: “Today, biology is an international science. Mastery of modern methods allows Kazakhstani students to participate in international grants and work on ‘green’ technologies.”
Afterwards, students and guests of the round table engaged in a discussion, debating the presented reports and sharing their arguments.
As a result of the round table, a common position was formulated and supported by all participants. It was voiced by the speaker, Bakhyt Meruert:
“For a Kazakhstani biologist today, ‘quality education’ means biodiversity and the nation’s health tomorrow. Therefore, biology is the language spoken by the future.”
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