Almaty, Kazakhstan – April 2026 – H.E. Ambassador Berik Aryn, Director General of the Islamic Organisation for Food Security (IOFS), participated in the 5th Farabi Forum held at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University in Almaty from 10 to 12 April 2026, at the invitation of Rector H.E. Mr. Zhanseit Tuimebayev.
The engagement took place within the framework of the Forum and reflected IOFS’s continued efforts to strengthen cooperation with leading academic and research institutions across OIC Member States, particularly in the areas of food security, agricultural innovation, and capacity development.
The Director General delivered remarks at the Closing Ceremony of the Forum, one of the University’s flagship international platforms bringing together scholars, researchers, institutional leaders, and international partners. In his address, Ambassador Berik Aryn noted that the world is facing increasingly complex challenges, including climate change, resource constraints, and regional instability, which are heightening the urgency of ensuring food security. He emphasized the critical role of science, innovation, and advanced knowledge in addressing these issues, underscoring the importance of translating research into practical, scalable solutions that support sustainable agricultural development and resilience across Member States.
On the sidelines of the Forum, Ambassador Berik Aryn and Mr. Zhanseit Tuimebayev, Rector of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), establishing a framework for cooperation in research, education, and knowledge exchange. The MoU places particular emphasis on sustainable agriculture, biotechnology, and human capital development, aiming to strengthen the link between scientific research and applied solutions in the field of food security.
During the ceremony, the Director General was invited by the University to present awards to distinguished researchers in recognition of their outstanding contributions to scientific advancement and academic excellence.
As part of the programme, the Director General also participated in events dedicated to the celebration of Nauryz, reflecting the cultural dimension of the Forum and fostering engagement with participants. The celebration brought together a wide range of participants, including representatives of the Akimat of Almaty, members of the diplomatic corps, prominent public figures, and the academic community.
The outcomes of the Forum mark a positive step toward strengthening collaboration between IOFS and Al-Farabi Kazakh National University. Both sides expressed readiness to advance joint initiatives in research, training, and innovation, contributing to sustainable food systems and resilience across the OIC region.
