A new model farm at Kazakh Agrotechnical University aims to revolutionize goat breeding and milk processing in Kazakhstan by incorporating modern French technologies. Funded by the French government’s FASEP, the initiative will serve as an educational platform for students and local farmers, emphasizing sustainability and innovative farming techniques. This project seeks to enhance agricultural practices, improve dairy product quality, and contribute to Kazakhstan’s food security and global dairy market position.
A groundbreaking model farm featuring modern French technologies in goat breeding and milk processing is set to be established at the Kazakh Agrotechnical University named after S. Seifullin (KazATIU) in Kazakhstan. This initiative, designed to elevate agricultural practices in the country, is the result of a cooperation agreement signed by the university’s rector, Kanat Tireuov, and Quentin Vercruysse, managing director of Eurasian Bridge LLC.
Key Details
- Cooperation Agreement: The memorandum of cooperation focuses on leveraging French expertise to develop advanced techniques in goat husbandry and dairy processing.
- Funding: The project will receive financial support from the French government’s state fund FASEP, aimed at aiding French companies that provide equipment and technological solutions to enhance agricultural productivity.
Objectives of the Model Farm
- Educational Platform:
- The model farm will serve as a dual training platform for students in Kazakhstan, offering hands-on experience in modern agricultural practices, specifically in goat breeding and dairy production.
- It aims to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring that students are well-equipped for careers in agriculture.
- Training for Farmers:
- The farm will act as a training base for local farmers and students from other universities in Kazakhstan and abroad, promoting knowledge transfer and best practices in goat farming and dairy processing.
- Workshops and seminars will be conducted to teach innovative farming techniques and efficient milk processing methods.
- Sustainability:
- Emphasizing environmental sustainability, the project will implement “green” technologies across the entire production cycle, from livestock management to milk processing and distribution.
- The model farm will utilize organic farming methods, reducing environmental impact and promoting animal welfare.
Additional Features
- Research and Development:
- The farm will also serve as a research hub for studying goat breeds suitable for Kazakhstan’s climate and conditions, facilitating the development of better breeding programs.
- Collaborative research projects with local agricultural institutions will aim to enhance the genetic quality and productivity of goat herds.
- Technology Transfer:
- The initiative will foster technology transfer between France and Kazakhstan, enabling local farmers to adopt cutting-edge techniques and improve the overall quality of dairy products.
- This includes the introduction of advanced milking equipment, automated feeding systems, and effective herd management software.
- Community Engagement:
- The model farm will engage with the local community by organizing events and open days to raise awareness about modern farming practices and the importance of sustainability.
- Partnerships with local cooperatives and agricultural organizations will be explored to further promote knowledge sharing and collaborative efforts in the dairy sector.
Significance
This initiative is a significant step toward modernizing Kazakhstan’s agricultural landscape, particularly in small-scale goat farming and dairy processing. By integrating French technologies and practices, the model farm aims to improve production efficiency, enhance the quality of dairy products, and promote sustainable practices within the industry.
Furthermore, the establishment of this farm aligns with Kazakhstan’s broader agricultural development goals, aiming to boost food security and enhance the country’s position in the global dairy market.
