From September 23 to 25, 2026, Shakarim University hosted the annual meeting of the Women in Nuclear Central Asia (WINCA) network — **Semey Forum 2026**, dedicated to advancing nuclear security, the peaceful use of nuclear energy, and regional cooperation.

The forum brought together experts, researchers, and representatives of international organizations, higher education institutions, and professional communities from Central Asia and other countries. Following the results of the international essay competition, Akbota Khazhidinova, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Technical Physics and Thermal Power Engineering, won first place. Her essay was highly commended for its substantive content, in-depth analysis, and the relevance of its ideas concerning nuclear security, the peaceful use of nuclear technology, and regional cooperation.

The participation of Madiyar Ruslanovich Maratbekov, a first-year student in the Technical Physics educational programme, deserves special recognition. From his first year of study, he has demonstrated an interest in current issues in nuclear energy and had the opportunity to take part in an international expert forum. The presentations delivered by leading Kazakhstani and international specialists provided the young participant with valuable experience and contributed to his professional development and broader scientific outlook.

The participation of a lecturer and a student from the Department of Technical Physics and Thermal Power Engineering in Semey Forum 2026 demonstrates the continuity of scientific interests and the active involvement of students in the professional community from their first year of study.

Semey Forum 2026 served as an important platform for professional dialogue, the exchange of experience, and the strengthening of international cooperation in nuclear security and the peaceful use of atomic energy.

Semey Forum 2026 and the participation of Shakarim University representatives contribute to achieving SDG 4 “Quality Education”, SDG 7 “Affordable and Clean Energy”, SDG 9 “Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure”, and SDG 17 “Partnerships for the Goals” by strengthening scientific and educational cooperation, developing competencies in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, and promoting international professional collaboration.