The Kazakh-German University (DKU) invites applications for the 8th Aral Summer School 2026 — an international educational programme dedicated to sustainable development in the Aral Sea region, climate resilience, water and land resources management, and ecosystem restoration.
Bringing together participants from Central Asia and international experts, the Summer School will explore the key environmental, climatic, and socio-economic challenges facing the Aral Sea region. The programme will address transboundary water cooperation, river basin management, sustainable natural resource management, climate adaptation, and the role of science and education in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
A strong focus will be placed on practical and field-based learning. Participants will take part in educational excursions in Almaty, travel by train to Aralsk, visit ecosystem restoration and water management sites, and explore the natural, geological, and cultural heritage of the Northern Aral Sea region. Working in international teams, participants will also conduct field-based assignments and develop group projects throughout the programme.
The Summer School will feature experts and representatives of European partners, including IHE Delft and the Erasmus+ HWCA project, alongside GIZ, the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS), UNESCO UNITWIN, and other partner institutions.
The programme combines expert lectures, interactive discussions, practical training, field research, educational excursions, cultural exchange, and professional networking, providing participants with an opportunity to gain both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience in addressing sustainability challenges in the Aral Sea region.
Transportation costs for all participants will be fully covered.
📍 Almaty — Aralsk — Almaty
🌍 Participants and experts from Central Asia and Europe
🤝 Organisers and partners: DKU • GIZ “Green Central Asia II” • International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS) • IHE Delft • Erasmus+ HWCA • UNESCO UNITWIN • Barsakelmes State Nature Reserve
