Geoheritage as a Strategic Resource

The School of Mining and Geosciences at Nazarbayev University invites students, faculty, and researchers to attend a guest lecture by Saida A. Nigmatova, Doctor of Geological and Mineralogical Sciences, paleontologist, stratigrapher, Deputy Director of the K.I. Satpayev Institute of Geological Sciences, and Chair of the National UNESCO Geoparks Committee in the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The talk will focus on geoheritage as a unique record of the Earth’s geological memory and its growing importance not only for science, but also for the economy, sustainable development, geotourism, and environmental decision-making. Special attention will be given to UNESCO Geoparks as a practical model for balancing conservation, education, and local development.

Drawing on examples from Central Asia, including the emerging Aral Geopark, the lecture will highlight how geoheritage can support the transformation of post-crisis regions and strengthen their long-term development potential.