Students from universities in Almaty initiated an open discussion of the Almaty SuperSki project and raised direct questions with its operator regarding the future of Kok-Zhailau, public access to the mountains, and environmental conservation. The meetings also addressed safety and the opportunities that the development of mountain infrastructure could create for young people, El.kz reports.
At the initiative of young people and the student community of Almaty, a series of meetings was held on the Almaty SuperSki project. Students from Almaty Technological University and Satbayev University themselves proposed holding an open and direct dialogue with the project operator and invited Yerzhan Yerkinbayev, Chief Executive Officer of Kazakh Tourism Development, to obtain first-hand information about the project, ask questions of interest to them, and discuss the future development of Almaty’s mountain infrastructure.
Kazakh Tourism Development
In response to the students’ request, Yerzhan Yerkinbayev presented the Almaty SuperSki concept, the project’s key parameters, and its anticipated contribution to the development of Almaty as an international mountain tourism destination.
From a regional perspective, the development of mountain tourism infrastructure is becoming increasingly relevant. Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan are already implementing projects in this area, while in Kazakhstan the prospects for such development have been under discussion for a decade. It is now important to move from prolonged discussions to practical implementation in order to fully unlock the country’s tourism potential and establish modern infrastructure designed to meet the needs of future generations.
Particular attention during the meetings was given to issues of direct concern to young people: access to the mountains for city residents, the development of grassroots sports and year-round tourism, safety, the conservation of natural areas, as well as new opportunities for education, professional development, and employment.
Kazakh Tourism Development
Employment prospects were discussed as a separate topic. The Almaty SuperSki project is expected to create approximately 5,000 permanent jobs and generate demand for professionals in tourism, hospitality, engineering, environmental management, marketing, and mountain infrastructure operations.
In this regard, engagement with students pursuing relevant fields of study is of particular importance, as they may subsequently become part of the new professional ecosystem developing around the project.
Following the meetings, representatives of the student community positively assessed the initiatives presented and expressed support for the development of modern mountain infrastructure. Participants noted that the Almaty SuperSki project could improve access to the mountains for Almaty residents, expand opportunities for grassroots sports and recreation, and create new prospects for young people.
Kazakh Tourism Development
The students themselves also highlighted those aspects of the project that are particularly relevant to young people.
“I am very pleased that the development of mountain tourism will create more opportunities to showcase the beautiful natural environment of Almaty,” said Adilbek Nurislam, a third-year student at Almaty Technological University.
“What I liked most was the idea of providing free skiing lessons for schoolchildren. This will give children an opportunity to engage in sports and become familiar with the mountains from an early age,” said Kassymova Zhanel Talgatkyzy, a participant in the meeting.
These comments reflect the interest of Almaty’s youth in the development of mountain tourism, as well as in the opportunities the project could create for children, sports, and the promotion of the city’s natural assets.
“It is particularly important for us that the initiative to hold these meetings came from the students themselves. Young people want to understand what will happen to Almaty’s mountains, how the project will be implemented, and what opportunities it will create for the city and for them personally. Our task is to provide the most transparent and comprehensive answers to these questions. Today’s students will be working within the new tourism ecosystem in just a few years and will contribute to the development of Almaty. That is why their participation in this dialogue is of fundamental importance,” said Yerzhan Yerkinbayev.
Kazakh Tourism Development emphasizes that this format of engagement will continue. The company intends to maintain direct dialogue with students, young people, universities, the expert community, and Almaty residents by providing information on the implementation of Almaty SuperSki and addressing questions related to the development of mountain infrastructure.
Background: Kazakh Tourism Development Ltd. is a private company registered with the Astana International Financial Centre. It was established to implement priority tourism projects aimed at developing year-round tourism infrastructure. Its primary objective is to establish a modern and sustainable tourism ecosystem that meets international standards and contributes to socio-economic development.
