2024, June 13
Share this articleThe parties signed a Memorandum of Cooperation in sports science and education.
Zhanar Utesheva, General Secretary of the National Olympic Committee of Kazakhstan (NOC Kazakhstan), and Massimo Pignatelli, NU Vice President and Dean of the School of Medicine, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation in sports science and education, on June 12, 2024. The parties agreed on a strategic partnership aimed at the sustainable development of high-performance sports across Kazakhstan while promoting a broader culture of physical activity and sports participation. This ambitious project will train the next generation of sports scientists, coaches, athletes, sports medicine specialists and administrative staff to international standards.
Prof. Massimo Pignatelli highlighted the university's readiness and enthusiasm to embark on this collaborative journey. "We are honored to join forces with the National Olympic Committee. Our university is dedicated to advancing research and educational activities that protect athletes' health, prevent injuries, and improve their performance. This partnership allows us to apply our scientific knowledge and innovative approaches to real-world challenges athletes face. Professors contributing to the MSc Program in Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation are recognized internationally. They are conducting studies on sports sciences, cardiology, epigenetics, nutrition, biomechanics, psychology and robotics in rehabilitation to develop evidence-based strategies for athlete care. Together with NOC Kazakhstan, we are ready to launch a double degree undergraduate program in Sports Sciences and Physiotherapy, and implement micro-credential courses for coaches, trainers, and athletes in best practices for health and performance," he noted.
In turn, General Secretary of NOC Kazakhstan Zhanar Utesheva reminded that the Committee has long supported cooperation with the University.
"The head of the NOC, Gennadiy Gennadyevich, initially set us the task not by word but by deed to show the results of work, and just in this, we have similar views with the leadership of the University. Even though the agreement was signed only today, the work started almost immediately after the meeting with Mr. Pignatelli in March. Eight students have already completed internships in four national federations, working with national team athletes. Work in the direction of scientific research in sports medicine and rehabilitation is underway with university staff. We also have plans for projects in the educational sphere, which will be aimed at the development of athletes and coaches", - said Zhanar Utesheva, thanking the NU leadership for their initiative and support.
The parties also intend to hold joint scientific conferences, symposiums and master classes at NU to promote bright victories and effective results of Kazakhstani athletes in the world sports arenas.
NU and NOC Kazakhstan aim to elevate Kazakhstan's presence on the international sports stage through this joint effort. The partnership is designed to equip the country's sports professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to compete and excel globally. This Memorandum marks a significant milestone in the advancement of sports science and education in Kazakhstan, laying a strong foundation for future growth and success.
