Every year, starting from 2011, April 12 has been celebrated in Kazakhstan as Science Workers’ Day in accordance with a Decree of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
The date of this holiday was not chosen by chance.
On April 12, 1899, an outstanding Soviet and Kazakh geologist of the 20th century, organizer of science, prominent statesman and public figure, Doctor of Geological and Mineralogical Sciences (1942), Academician of the Academy of Sciences of the Kazakh SSR (1946) and Academician of the USSR Academy of Sciences (1946), Professor (1950), the first director of the Institute of Geological Sciences of the Kazakh branch of the USSR Academy of Sciences (1941–1964), member of the Presidium of the USSR Academy of Sciences (1961–1964), and the first president of the Kazakhstan Academy of Sciences – Kanysh Satpayev.
The development of modern science in Kazakhstan is closely associated with the name of Kanysh Imantayevich. Satpayev was not only engaged in research – he built the scientific system of the country. During the Great Patriotic War, heading the Kazakh branch of the USSR Academy of Sciences, he managed to unite scientists and lay the foundation for the future national scientific base.
On June 1, 1946, the Academy of Sciences of the Kazakh SSR was established – this became a turning point: research institutes began to be actively created in the country and various scientific fields started to develop. The Academy of Sciences became the largest scientific center that determined the development of science in the country for decades ahead.
The creation of the Academy of Sciences was the result of the tremendous work of a whole constellation of outstanding scientists. Satpayev managed to unite a strong team of researchers from various fields – geologists, zoologists, botanists and others.
Among Satpayev’s associates and like-minded colleagues was also one of the founders of the Academy of Sciences and a member of its first Presidium – Illarion Grigoryevich Galuzo (1899–1977), Doctor of Biological Sciences, Honored Scientist of Kazakhstan, laureate of the USSR State Prize. For more than a quarter of a century, Academician Galuzo I.G. headed the Institute of Zoology of the Republic of Kazakhstan, which was established with his direct participation; for more than 40 years he led the Laboratory of Parasitology. Under his leadership, new scientific fields and schools (in particular parasitology) were created, laboratories were opened, an experimental base was formed, the republican Museum of Nature was established, and much more.
Satpayev and Galuzo were born in the same year and month, but they were not just contemporaries and colleagues, founders of the national Academy of Sciences, creators of research institutes and scientific schools. They lived by science and made a significant contribution to training young specialists in the country. By establishing institutions, they shaped a scientific environment that made it possible to systematically study the nature, resources, and biodiversity of Kazakhstan.
These scientists understood that most significant applied discoveries and achievements are impossible without fundamental research. Fundamental science does not yield quick results, but it serves as the foundation for new discoveries and innovations.
Today, the Institute of Zoology of the Republic of Kazakhstan continues the traditions of the founders of the Kazakhstan Academy of Sciences, conducting systematic research aimed at studying and conserving biodiversity and transferring knowledge about the animal world of our country.
Currently, there are more than 25 thousand scientists in Kazakhstan, half of whom are young researchers under the age of 40.
This holiday – Science Workers’ Day – is intended to emphasize the importance of scientific activity, support young scientists, and recognize the contribution of researchers to the development of the country.
Speech of the Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev at the award ceremony for scientists
April 10, 2026, the Head of State, in his speech at the award ceremony for scientists at Akorda, noted that “the scientific capital of a country becomes the main measure of its authority on the international stage. Undoubtedly, only intellectual nations that prioritize knowledge and science are able to lead progress. Ultimately, all achievements of humanity are based on the work of scientists”.
In his speech on the eve of the professional holiday, the President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev also stated that science serves as the fundamental pillar of a progressive state, and scientists are its greatest asset.
Ceremonial event dedicated to Science Workers’ Day of Kazakhstan in Almaty
On April 10 in Almaty, at the “Gylym Ordasy” building, a ceremonial event of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Kazakhstan under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan dedicated to Science Workers’ Day was also held. The event aimed to promote the achievements of national science and demonstrate the potential of the country’s scientific community.
The event was attended by the Deputy Akim of Almaty, the Vice Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, academicians of the National Academy of Sciences, rectors of leading universities, heads of research institutes and organizations, prominent scientists, young researchers, as well as representatives of the media.
As part of the event, with the support of the Akimat of Almaty, a tree-planting campaign was held on the “Alley of Scientists”, becoming a symbol of continuity between generations and sustainable development of science.
A scientific and educational exhibition was also organized, presenting innovative projects, technologies, and developments of Kazakhstani scientists and inventors. Special attention was given to the results of grant programs of JSC “Science Fund”, aimed at the commercialization of scientific solutions. Participants had the opportunity to ознакомиться with advanced developments, establish professional contacts, and discuss prospects for cooperation.
Following the event, scientists and young researchers who made a significant contribution to the development of science were awarded departmental honors.
Happy Science Day, dear colleagues!
11.04.2026