UCA Researchers and Students Contribute to Global Dialogue on Mountain Sustainability

UCA faculty and students showcased their expertise on glacier science and climate resilience at the prestigious 2025 IPROMO programme in Italy, reinforcing the university’s leadership in sustainable mountain development.

Glacier Science and Water Security: UCA Research Featured

At the 2025 edition of the International Programme on Research and Training on Sustainable Mountain Development (IPROMO), held in Italy, the University of Central Asia (UCA) was proudly represented by both faculty and student participants. This year’s summer school brought together 27 participants from 19 countries under the theme of glacier preservation and the impacts of climate change on mountain ecosystems - a topic of particular relevance for Central Asia.

Sanjar Sadyrov from UCA’s Mountain Societies Research Institute (MSRI) delivered an online lecture titled “Tian Shan and Pamir as Water Towers of Central Asia.” He presented cutting-edge research on glacier dynamics and their role in Central Asia’s water future. Using a regional climate model, Sanjar’s team assessed how rising temperatures could reshape river flows in Kyrgyzstan’s mountainous basins.

Recently published in the Journal of Environmental Management, the study highlights alarming trends: retreating glaciers and reduced snowpack are expected to cause seasonal shifts in water availability, with long-term risks of water shortages. Sanjar emphasized the need to combine international science with local knowledge to strengthen resilience in water-stressed mountain communities.

Student Spotlight: Gulbahor Bakhtalieva Represents UCA

Gulbahor Bakhtalieva, a second-year undergraduate in Earth and Environmental Sciences, stood out as the only bachelor’s student among professionals and graduate-level peers at IPROMO. She actively participated in lectures, fieldwork, and technical debates, demonstrating the strength of UCA’s academic foundation.

Gulbahor also delivered a presentation on the glaciers of Tajikistan, drawing on her internship experience with mountain development projects. “I was initially nervous,” she shared, “but the foundation from my UCA courses gave me the confidence to fully participate in technical discussions. It was a proud moment to represent my university and the student voice in such a diverse setting.

A Global Platform for Local Impact

The event served as a global platform for knowledge exchange, affirming UCA’s growing visibility and reputation in sustainable mountain development. Participation by both faculty and students highlights the University’s commitment to shaping future leaders and advancing regionally grounded, globally relevant research.

Learn more about UCA’s work in glacier science, climate adaptation, and mountain community resilience at Mountain Societies Research Institute.