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On April 17, 2026, an expert discussion platform titled “Generational Debate: ‘Almaty: Past and Present’” was held in Almaty within the framework of the project “Almaty — Menin Maktanyshym.” The event was organized by the Center for Public Development of Almaty with the support of the Kazakh Leading Academy of Architecture and Civil Engineering and took place at the KazGASA (MOK) building. This event directly contributes to the implementation of the indicators of UN SDG 11 — “Sustainable Cities and Communities.”

Among the participants was Professor of 91��ý Kazakh National University, Candidate of Geographical Sciences, Head of the UNESCO Chair on Sustainable Development, Tursynkul A. Bazarbayeva, who выступила as one of the key speakers with a presentation titled: “Almaty as an Environmental Phenomenon: Challenges of Sustainable Development of a Large Megapolis.”

The discussion also featured leading experts in their respective fields: Kuat Abdigapparovich Kuandykov — architect-urbanist, Director of “Zhana Korinis” LLP; Gulnara Seidakhmetovna Abdrazilova — Honored Architect of Kazakhstan, Doctor of Architecture, Professor; Meirzhan Auelkhanuly — IT specialist and researcher in the field of artificial intelligence.

In her presentation, T.A. Bazarbayeva provided a scientific analysis of the unique natural and geographical conditions of Almaty, the increasing anthropogenic pressure, and the environmental consequences of urbanization processes, highlighting key risks and opportunities for ensuring the sustainable development of the megacity. The report was directly linked to UN Sustainable Development Goal 11, focusing on environmental sustainability, urban safety, and improving the quality of life. During the discussion, the historical stages of Almaty’s development, its architectural identity, and current urbanization trends were comprehensively examined. The section “Modern Almaty: Opportunities and Challenges” analyzed social, infrastructural, and environmental aspects of the city’s development. The “Technology and the City” segment focused on digitalization processes, Smart City solutions, and the impact of artificial intelligence on urban development. In light of 2026 being declared the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence, the importance of these areas was particularly emphasized.

In the concluding part, participants discussed the future of Almaty within the framework of the “Taza Kazakhstan” concept, the balance between urban development and environmental protection, and the role of youth. During an open dialogue with KazGASA students, the professional responsibility of future specialists and their contribution to society were highlighted. At the end of the debate, the speakers were awarded letters of appreciation from the Public Development Center of Almaty.

The event underscored the active role of 91��ý Kazakh National University in promoting sustainable development principles and participating in scientific and expert discussions at the city level.