Sustainable Development of Aquaculture
Atyrau University named after Khalel Dosmukhamedov places great emphasis on the development of sustainable practices in fisheries and aquaculture. The educational program 6B08401 “Fisheries and Ichthyology”, implemented by the Department of Biology and Fisheries, aims to train qualified specialists for this sector.
In recent years, interest in this specialty has significantly increased, and the number of students continues to grow annually. In the 2025–2026 academic year, 13 students were admitted to this program, demonstrating a steady growth in student enrollment.
The curriculum is regularly updated in accordance with labor market requirements. The study plan has been revised and improved based on recommendations from the National Chamber of Entrepreneurs of the Republic of Kazakhstan “Atameken”. According to the organization’s ranking, the program ranked 2nd in Kazakhstan in 2025.
To support practical training and research activities, strong partnerships have been established with leading industry organizations. In particular, cooperation agreements have been signed with the Zhaiyk-Caspian Interregional Basin Fisheries Inspection and the Atyrau Sturgeon Fish Hatchery. Within these partnerships, students participate in research activities and gain professional experience.
During their internships, students learn about artificial fish breeding and the release of juvenile fish into natural water bodies, as well as modern technologies used in fisheries. This allows them to effectively combine theoretical knowledge with practical skills.
Graduates of the program also demonstrate notable achievements. In 2025, graduate Dilnaz Akmurzieva won third place in the Student Research Competition with her study titled “Evaluation of the Scientific Basis of Biotechnology for Sturgeon Breeding.” Her scientific supervisors were Professor K.S. Irzagaliev and lecturer A.A. Boranova.
Currently, the department is implementing a research project titled “Development of technologies for obtaining valuable components from plant and animal raw materials using biotechnical methods.” The research focuses on improving the quality, environmental safety, and efficiency of fish feed used in aquaculture. The project utilizes new strains of lactic acid microorganisms as well as local plant and secondary raw materials such as flax, reeds, and industrial hemp.
The main goal of the project is to establish a scientific and educational biotechnology laboratory and a fish feed production facility, as well as to develop efficient technologies for commercial fish farming in recirculating aquaculture systems.
The project team includes two doctors of science, two candidates of science, one PhD, and three master’s degree specialists. The research results are intended for application in agriculture and feed production industries.
In addition, the department regularly organizes scientific and educational events. On February 25, 2026, a round table titled “Digitalization as a Mechanism for the Development of Fisheries” was held. Students from all academic years participated in the event. The director of the Atyrau Sturgeon Fish Hatchery, B. Mukhatzhiev, also took part and shared his professional experience.
Thus, the university’s educational and research activities contribute to the development of sustainable aquaculture, the implementation of innovative technologies, and the training of highly qualified specialists for the fisheries sector.
- Seminar “Fishery Industry Trends and Innovations 2025: Key Outcomes of the Global Fishery Forum & Seafood Expo Russia”
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