Voices and Faces of UCA: Sergey Shumkov
In celebration of the University of Central Asia’s (UCA) 25th anniversary, we share the story of an employee whose journey reflects the institution’s own growth — from humble beginnings to a thriving international community.
Sergey Shumkov has been working as a driver at UCA for nearly 20 years — he’s been behind the wheel the whole time, and he’s still at it today. When he started, the team he was part of had just 23 people; now, the university’s operations have grown so much that the number has swelled to hundreds. “The scale has changed a lot,” he says, “but the work itself stays the same.”
He has always enjoyed his job. “I’ve always liked working here,” he shares. “It’s a good job, with a good team.”
A Moment That Stuck With Him
One day that stands out in his memory is from 2012 — he was driving from Almaty in a 30 degree frost when the diesel froze and the vehicle stalled. The whole of Kazakhstan was snowed under that day, he recalls.
“We had to spend the night there, warming up the engine and trying to get it going again,” he says. “We worked at it all night, but we made it through.”
Over the years, he has transported all kinds of people connected to UCA — students, staff, and guests. He’s supported several important visits, and while he doesn’t single anyone out, he’s clear about how he feels: “Everyone’s great, everyone’s cool. It’s always a point of pride to be part of those moments.”
One of his favourite routes is the long drive to Tekeli in Kazakhstan — it’s nearly 550 kilometres, and he enjoys those long journeys. “There’s something good about a long road,” he says. “It feels right.”
“My whole time here has been about driving, doing the job, and being part of something that’s getting bigger,” Sergey Shumkov reflects. “I’m glad to have been here through it all.”
Looking Ahead: Wishes for UCA’s Future
As UCA marks its 25th anniversary, Sergey offers his heartfelt wishes for the university’s future.
“I want to congratulate UCA on its 25th anniversary and wish it further prosperity, for everyone to be healthy and happy — and for UCA to keep thriving for another 25 years,” he says.
Sergey’s story is a reminder that the institution’s progress about the dedicated people who have been with UCA from the start and continue to believe in its future.
