MSU VIPP

Celebrating Impactful Global Research Collaboration

We are proud to highlight the achievements of Professor Raikhan Beisenova, a 2023 Visiting Scholar at MSU, who currently serves as the Director of the Department of Strategy and Corporative Governance at the Kazakh National University of Sports, whose research is tackling some of the most pressing environmental challenges in Central Asia.

The Challenge: A Critical Water Crisis. Kazakhstan faces significant hydrological hurdles, characterized by arid and semi-arid conditions and uneven water distribution. Today, the region is under increasing pressure from climate change and rapid socio-economic development, leading to declining river flows, deteriorating water quality, and a growing frequency of droughts.

The Research: Evidence-Based Solutions. Under the mentorship of Dr. Jiquan Chen, a world-class leading scholar in land, water, and natural resource management, Raikhan conducted vital research on drinking water quality in the rural Pavlodar Region. Their work identified specific geographical and environmental factors that influence water safety, providing a roadmap for local authorities to prioritize infrastructure improvements and additional monitoring. The collaboration led to a recent joint publication in the Journal of Water, entitled “Influence of geographical locations on drinking water quality in rural Pavlodar Region, Kazakhstan”. This research was invited to present at the American Geophysical Union Fall Meeting in 2024 in Washington, D.C. and in 2025 in New Orleans.

The Significance: Health and Economic Resilience. The impact of this research extends far beyond the scientific community but direct influences on:

Public Health & Quality of Life: Improving drinking water safety is a critical public health necessity for rural communities.

Economic Growth: Kazakhstan’s agriculture is highly dependent on irrigation; therefore, securing reliable water access is essential for agricultural productivity and long-term economic resilience.

Sustainable Development: The data-driven approach in their research supports evidence-based decision-making for sustainable water management in arid regions.

The Visiting International Professional Program (VIPP) at MSU played a vital role in essential facilitations, bridging the gap between international talent and MSU’s prestigious resources. Through the Bolashak International Scholarship Program, VIPP's specialized training in research methodology and scientific communication was instrumental in the success of this collaboration.

Raikhan is now paying this expertise forward by mentoring the next generation of young scientists in Kazakhstan, ensuring the benefits of her MSU experience at MSU continue, a lasting effect.

Congratulations to Raikhan and Dr. Chen for their endeavors in promoting a more resilient and water-secure future!

Strengthening Global Security through International Collaboration: The Kyrgyz Republic Delegation in East Lansing

Following the Combating Drug Trafficking project from India, we were delighted to host another International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) project from the Kyrgyz Republic on June 18, centered on Combating Transnational Crimes, which brings together a small group of Kyrgyzstani senior legal and security officials to examine the American criminal justice system and enhance international cooperation.

The delegation includes prominent leaders Salamat Abdyldaev (Head of the Security Department, Prosecutor General’s Office), Kubat Karagulov (Senior Investigator for Major Cases, Military Prosecutor’s Office), and Meder Malikovich Malikov (Prosecutor, International Legal Cooperation Department). Their mission is to explore how federal, state, and local authorities detect and prosecute complex threats, including financial crimes, narcotics smuggling, and terrorism.

A cornerstone of this program was a moderated panel discussion held at the Michigan National Guard (MING) Joint Forces Headquarters. Moderated by LTC Amanda Self, the panel featured MING experts LTC Sara So, MAJ Steven Haggerty, MAJ Kasey Robbins, and Mr. Ryan Stepanski. The session provided a deep dive into how the National Guard serves as a "force multiplier" for civil law enforcement while strictly navigating the legal boundaries of National Guard Civil Support.

The discussion highlighted the "whole-of-government" approach required to disrupt modern criminal networks. LTC Sara So detailed the 51st Civil Support Team’s role in responding to unconventional chemical, biological, or radiological threats, while MAJ Kasey Robbins discussed the logistics of counterdrug operations. A key focus was the State Partnership Program (SPP), represented by Mr. Ryan Stepanski, which builds decades-long bilateral relationships to foster global resilience.

Transnational crimes are borderless, and through these IVLP programs, we are building mutual trust and professional networks necessary to combat them. We are proud to support these vital diplomatic efforts and strengthen the ties between the United States and the international community.

Thank you, Meridian International Center and Global Ties Detroit, for your partnership in implementing this program.

For the past week and a half, students from Nanjiang University have immersed themselves in an unforgettable educational and cultural experience at Michigan State University. As they celebrate their program graduation, students leave with new knowledge, meaningful connections, and memories that will last a lifetime.

From engaging classroom experiences to exploring Michigan’s history during their visit to the Michigan State Capitol, this journey has been filled with learning, discovery, and friendship. Students are excited to bring the teaching strategies, ideas, and experiences they gained at MSU back to their own classrooms and communities at home.

Most importantly, the friendships formed over these weeks have created bonds that stretch across cultures and continents. Though the program has come to an end, the memories, laughter, and lifelong friendships made here will continue long after they return home.

This weekend, students from Nanjiang University enjoyed an exciting journey across the state of Michigan, combining sightseeing, shopping, nature, and campus exploration.

The adventure began in Detroit, where students explored the city’s historic downtown area. They admired the architecture, experienced the lively atmosphere, and visited the famous Trader Joe's, where many students enjoyed browsing unique snacks and popular American products.

Next, the group traveled to Holland to experience the beautiful tulip season. Students walked among colorful flowers, took many memorable photographs, and enjoyed shopping throughout the charming town. The tulip displays created the perfect backdrop for relaxing and celebrating spring in Michigan.

Afterward, the students visited Lake Michigan, where they spent time relaxing by the water. The peaceful lakeshore offered a refreshing break from busy schedules, and students captured commemorative group photos while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

The journey continued with a visit to the University of Michigan. Students toured the campus, explored academic buildings, and learned more about university life in the United States. The visit inspired many students as they experienced one of America’s most well-known universities firsthand.

To conclude the weekend, the group stopped at Birch Run Premium Outlets for shopping and souvenirs. Students enjoyed finding gifts, clothing, and keepsakes to bring home and remember their Michigan adventure.

The weekend was filled with laughter, friendship, exploration, and relaxation. It was a wonderful opportunity for students to experience new places, enjoy nature, create lasting memories together, and wrap up the time they have left in the United States before heading back to school in China.

This week, students from Nanjing University had an exciting and educational opportunity to explore schools in Michigan! During their visit, they toured Okemos High School, Chippewa Middle School, Wexford Montessori Academy, and Waverly High School.

The university students observed classrooms, learned about teaching methods, and discovered how American schools encourage creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. They also had meaningful conversations with teachers and staff about the U.S. education system, student activities, and daily school life.

Throughout the visits, students exchanged ideas, shared cultural experiences, and asked thoughtful questions about learning styles and academic opportunities. The experience helped build global connections and promoted international understanding in a fun and interactive way.

This special exchange reminded us that education can bring people together from around the world and help students become curious, informed, and globally minded citizens.

Students from Nanjing University participated in an academic exchange with graduate students at Michigan State University, engaging in firsthand discussions about classroom practices, teaching methodologies, and the differences between educational systems in China and the United States. The event provided participants with a unique opportunity to examine how cultural and institutional approaches shape the learning experience in both countries.

Many of the visiting students are currently preparing for careers in education, and the exchange encouraged them to reflect not only on their future roles as teachers, but also on their own experiences as students. Through these conversations, participants explored how personal educational experiences can inform more thoughtful, inclusive, and effective teaching practices.

Graduate student panelists Kunti Adhikari, Katie Tasch Bielecki, Tri “Dede” Sugiarto, Weiwei He, and Leo Wen rotated among student groups, spending approximately 20 minutes at each table. The discussions focused on comparing curriculum structures, classroom expectations, and educational experiences in China with those at Michigan State University. The small-group format fostered meaningful dialogue and encouraged students to ask questions, share perspectives, and identify common challenges faced in modern education systems.

Following the panel discussions, the students met with researchers and faculty members from Michigan State University’s College of Education, who presented their current research projects and thesis work. Faculty members Shireen Al-Adeimi, Gregory Child, Tonya Bartell, and Gail Richmond facilitated discussions that encouraged critical thinking, collaboration, and cross-cultural academic exchange.

Structured activities throughout the program allowed students to better understand the challenges multilingual children often face in schools and explore inclusive teaching strategies designed to support diverse learners. Participants also examined multiple approaches to lesson planning and classroom engagement, emphasizing the importance of creating learning environments where every student feels represented and included.

The exchange highlighted the value of international collaboration in education and demonstrated how dialogue between future educators can foster greater cultural understanding, professional growth, and innovative approaches to teaching. Organizers expressed hope that experiences such as these will continue to strengthen global academic partnerships and inspire students to pursue more equitable and inclusive educational practices in their future classrooms.

Scaling Global Research Impact with Bolashak!

The MSU delegation, led by Dr. Titus Awokuse, Vice Provost and Dean of International Studies and Program (ISP), was honored to be welcomed by the Chairman of the Board of the Center for International Programs (JSC), Mr. Adil Kusmanov, during our recent visit to Kazakhstan, where we celebrated the profound impact of our partnership.

The Bolashak Scientific Internship Program managed by JSC has been a global powerhouse, sponsoring more than 1,200 scholars to conduct research worldwide since its launch. At Michigan State University, we are proud to have hosted close to 100 of these talented scholars in the past four years.

These collaborations are far more than a simple exchange; they are a vital contribution to the MSU ecosystem. Bolashak scholars and their MSU faculty mentors have produced significant research output, including joint publications in internationally indexed journals like Scopus and Web of Science. This shared academic excellence strengthens our research capacity and fosters institutional innovation on both sides.

Our visit also sparked crucial conversations regarding Kazakhstan’s water diplomacy. MSU is uniquely positioned to lead in this space through the MSU WaterCube and Water Alliance, which utilizes a convergent research paradigm. By integrating advanced technology and AI with water science and social science, we provide the interdisciplinary training necessary to solve complex, real-world water challenges.

We anticipate a future of deep collaboration on water-related issues with Kazakhstan, leveraging our world-class expertise to drive global sustainability.

The MSU delegation to Kazakhstan includes:
Amita Chudgar, Associate Dean and Director of OISE at MSU
Yadu Pokhrel, Associate Director, Asia Hub
Vlad Tarabara, Director, Center for European and Eurasian Studies
Xinyu Wu, Director of VIPP

The team had a lot of fun exploring and learning the Kazakh higher education landscape, research priorities, and the unique central Asian culture incl. architecture, music, food, and much more.

Centre for International Programmes - Bolashaq, MSU International Studies and Programs, MSU Center for European and Eurasian Studies, Michigan State University College of Education

In just four years, the Bolashak program has become a pillar of the VIPP family. Kazakhstan has been one of VIPP’s key partner countries in recent years, and since 2022 VIPP has hosted nearly 100 Bolashak-sponsored scholars. This has been a collaborative effort to support Kazakhstan’s higher education reform priorities by strengthening academic leadership, teaching excellence, research capacity, and institutional innovation.

On May 11, 2026, VIPP had the pleasure of hosting the Bolashak Alumni Reunion in Almaty Kazakhstan. Led by MSU ISP’s very own Dean Titus Awokuse, Associate Dean Amita Chudgar, and VIPP Director Xinyu Wu, MSU came to Kazakhstan to reunite with alumni and to celebrate 35 years of VIPP with these memorable scholars.

We would like to extend a special shout-out to our panelists Dr. Volodymyr Tarabara, Dr. Yadu Pokhrel, Dr. Assel Izekenova, Dr. Galymzhan Ashirbayev, and Dr. Aliya Zadakhanova — from MSU and around the globe. Their discussion of “Sustainable Academic Partnership Research and Publication" was an enlightening reflection on collaborations between MSU faculty and Bolashak scholars.

Here’s to another 35 years and many more with VIPP. And remember: once a , always a Spartan. !



MSU International Studies and Programs, MSU Center for European and Eurasian Studies Asian Studies Center at Michigan State University Michigan State University College of Education
Centre for International Programmes - Bolashaq

Michigan State University recently welcomed students from Nanjing University’s Pre-Service Teacher Short Training Program as they began an immersive week of academic learning, professional engagement, and cultural exchange on campus. The program offers participants an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the American education system while experiencing campus life at MSU.

The week opened with an interactive icebreaker activity led by Rong Nie, where students participated in a fast-paced warm-up game involving music, movement, and a traditional nursery rhyme. The activity encouraged collaboration and helped foster connections among participants from the very start of the program.

Students also attended an educational overview session led by Dr. Samantha Caughlan, Dr. Nancy Romig, and Dr. Julie Sinclair. Faculty members introduced the wide range of education programs and opportunities available through MSU, while also discussing approaches to teacher preparation and professional development in the United States. Later this week, participants will continue their learning through classroom observations and school visits designed to provide firsthand insight into American teaching practices.

Beyond the academic sessions, students explored several areas of campus, including the International Center gift shop, where they had the opportunity to purchase official Spartan merchandise. The group also toured the newly opened Student Recreation and Wellness Center, gaining a broader perspective on student life and wellness resources at MSU.

The day concluded with a reflective discussion in which students compared and contrasted aspects of life and education in the United States and China. These conversations encouraged participants to consider cultural perspectives in new ways and highlighted the value of international collaboration in education.

Stay tuned for more updates throughout the week as students continue exploring educational practices, campus life, and cross-cultural learning experiences at MSU.