The KazMSA student organization hosted exchange students from August 12 to 18, 2024, as part of the SCORA-X change program. This program, designed to raise awareness of reproductive health and human rights, offers participants a unique opportunity to learn about the healthcare services provided by the host country’s health system and gain insight into the activities of civil society in the field of HIV/AIDS prevention.
The SCORA-X change program allows students not only to deepen their knowledge in the field of reproductive health but also to exchange experiences with colleagues from other countries, fostering intercultural dialogue and professional growth.
As part of the program, seven students from various European countries, including Italy, Poland, and Romania, arrived in the city of Semey. Over the course of the week, they participated in a series of educational and cultural activities. One of the key highlights of their visit was a tour of the city’s leading medical institutions. The students visited the Center for Nuclear Medicine and Oncology, where they learned about modern methods of diagnosing and treating cancer. At the regional HIV prevention center, they were introduced to methods of HIV prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, as well as government and public initiatives aimed at supporting people living with HIV. A special highlight of the visit was the students’ experience at the emergency hospital, where they observed a laparoscopic myomectomy — a modern, minimally invasive surgical procedure.
The Semey Medical University also extended a warm welcome to the international students, organizing a tour of its main campus. During the visit, the students explored the university’s history museum, as well as a hall dedicated to the heroic deeds of Manshuk Mametova, a Hero of the Soviet Union. This hall not only reflected significant historical events but also underscored the important contributions of women to the country’s history.
In addition, participants of the program were shown themed rooms in the university, dedicated to various cultures and countries, including Japan, India, Pakistan, Turkey, and Kazakhstan. These rooms were created to support international students studying at the university and to ensure a comfortable environment for them. One of the European students shared his impressions: “It’s a unique experience to see a museum and cultural rooms right inside the university. Such attention to detail demonstrates the university’s strong interest in international cooperation and care for the comfort of foreign students.”
This rich and diverse experience allowed the participating students not only to improve their professional skills but also to gain a deeper understanding of the culture and healthcare system of Kazakhstan.
