A researcher from Cambridge highly appreciated the forum at KazNUFarabi University

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A researcher from Cambridge highly appreciated the forum at KazNU

27 April 2026
A researcher from Cambridge highly appreciated the forum at KazNU

The international conference "Orazbayev Readings" has finished its work at the al-Farabi Kazakh National University. The Forum brought together Russian and foreign archaeologists, becoming an important dialogue platform for discussing the ancient history of Eurasia and modern scientific methods.

One of the key speakers of the conference was Rebecca Roberts, a researcher at the University of Cambridge, who praised the level of the KazNU scientific environment. In her opinion, Central Asia is becoming the epicenter of international scientific partnership, giving a new impetus to world archaeological science. "It was an impressive scientific platform that allowed us to discuss global issues. Research in Central Asia is fundamentally changing our understanding of the ancient history of the whole of Eurasia",- the foreign guest emphasized.

A special feature of the forum was the close attention to the role of archaeology in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. According to Roberts, archaeology is not just an excavation, but an effective tool for quality education (SDG4) and the formation of an inclusive society.

The researcher noted that the experience of the past can help in solving the current environmental crisis. "Ancient land–use practices make it possible today to effectively manage natural resources and adapt to climate change",- Roberts said. She cited grain crops as an example: millet, grown in Kazakhstan more than 4,000 years ago, still retains its importance as a sustainable crop adapted to dry and hot climates.

Within the framework of SDG-17 (Partnership) The ties between KazNU and Cambridge are being actively strengthened. Both universities have established an exchange of students and teachers, implementing joint research projects. Rebecca Roberts said that the international archaeological conference, which will be held in Cambridge in September this year, is being organized jointly with KazNU. "International cooperation encourages us to think beyond the usual framework, look at problems from different angles and find new solutions. It is in such an environment that real scientific progress is born," said Rebecca Roberts.

At the end of the conference, attention was paid to the skills of young researchers in working with new technologies. In particular, the issues of responsible and ethical use of artificial intelligence and digital technologies in archeology were raised.

The forum participants unanimously confirmed the strategic importance of archaeological science in understanding global challenges and shaping a sustainable future.

Press-service of 91ý Kazakh National University