Kumtor Supports the Launch of a New Environmental Management and Sustainable Development Department at AUCA

March 20, 2013

The American University of Central Asia and the Kumtor Operating Company are pleased to announce a joint project to develop the next generation of environmental leaders.  In fall 2013 AUCA will open a new innovative program in Environmental Management and Sustainable Development.  Kumtor will provide seven scholarships to the first group of students, and is sponsoring a scientific laboratory at the new AUCA campus, the construction of which was also supported by the Company.

The program is divided into two tracks: Society and Policy, and Natural Resources and Energy. The curriculum will be developed by AUCA Sustainable Development Committee, which will include one representative from Kumtor.

The creation of the Environmental Management and Sustainable Development program was prompted by Central Asia’s urgent need for environmental leaders and AUCA’s mission to support the region’s transition to a development path that balances social, economic and environmental interests. This program perfectly fits the university’s mission of training enlightened and impassioned leaders, who think globally and act this out locally in the specific conditions of Central Asia.  More information can be found through the link: www.auca.kg/en/sustainable_development.

«Kumtor is proud to be a partner of AUCA and the new environmental program, and is excited to be part of the project. I am confident that the Department will not only educate environmental and sustainable development specialists, but also enhance the overall environmental responsibility of the students.  During this academic year, the Company will provide seven scholarships, and the best students will be invited for internships. We will also search for other creative ways to support their professional development”, said Micheal Fischer, President of Kumtor Company.

Elida Nogoibaeva, Dean of Faculty: "We are excited to be offering this new program that will challenge the way that most students think about the environment and the natural world around them.  We are also thankful to have Kumtor as a supporting partner, and hope that the opportunities they provide for students to study in this program will produce a new cadre of environmental leaders."

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