Kazakhstan is preparing to launch a major project aimed at improving the use of water resources in agriculture. On the instruction of Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Nurzhan Nurzhigitov, plans are being considered to establish five training centres for sustainable irrigation in the Turkestan, Kyzylorda, Zhambyl, Almaty and Zhetysu regions, based on the southern branches of RSE Kazvodkhoz.
According to the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation, the initiative is designed to increase water-use efficiency, reduce losses and support the development of qualified personnel in the irrigation sector. Vice Minister Talgat Momyshev noted that the centres will be developed using grant funding.
The project forsees the creation of educational and demonstration platforms combining theory and practice. Together with the Kazakh Research Institute of Water Management and RSE Kazvodkhoz, a roadmap and technical framework will be developed. The centres will be equipped with training, laboratory and demonstration infrastructure and will offer programmes on sustainable irrigation, water distribution and irrigation system management.
International and industry partners will be involved to incorporate global best practices. In addition, farmers and agricultural producers will receive training in modern water-saving technologies, which is expected to reduce water losses and improve crop yields under conditions of limited water resources.