Proposes Nationwide Competition to Designate Kazakhstan's Initial Atomic Power Station
Kazakhstan Launches Nationwide Competition to Name First Nuclear Power Plant
Kazakhstan is inviting the public to participate in a nationwide competition to choose a name for its first nuclear power plant, located in the village of Ulken, Zhambyl district, Almaty Region. The competition, proposed by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, is aimed at encouraging creativity and public involvement in the naming process [1][4][5].
Competition Details and Organization
A working group has been established to develop the competition's algorithm, rules, deadlines, and procedures for submitting and reviewing name proposals. The group is expected to finalize these details by August 29, 2025 [1][5]. A competition committee, comprising representatives from the public, the creative industry, nuclear energy experts, philology, and history, will oversee the process.
Prizes and Deadline
While specific prizes for the contest have not been announced yet, the rules and procedures must be finalized by August 29, 2025, suggesting that the competition will commence shortly thereafter [1][5].
Additional Context
The nuclear plant, a strategic project jointly constructed with Russia’s Rosatom, is estimated to cost approximately $14 to $15 billion. Initially, there was a proposal to lease the naming rights of the plant to commercial companies as a revenue source. However, this idea was rejected by the Atomic Energy Agency, as the plant is of national strategic importance and should reflect historical, cultural, and national values rather than commercial branding [2][3].
Recognition of Young Talent
Separately, President Tokayev recently honoured students who had won medals at prestigious international olympiads in subjects such as chemistry, mathematics, physics, geography, computer science, and biology. Tokayev emphasized the importance of Kazakhstan's future depending on creative, knowledgeable, and dedicated youth. He also announced increased support for young scientists as part of broader plans to build a skilled workforce for the future [6].
Nuclear Power Plant as a Symbol of Progress
The nuclear power plant is considered a symbol of scientific and technological progress in Kazakhstan. Tokayev invited students to participate in the competition to name the plant, encouraging them to show their creativity [6]. He also mentioned the Keleshek mektepteri (Schools of the future) as an initiative to support young talent.
This year, the students earned four gold, 11 silver, and nine bronze medals. Starting next year, winners of international olympiads will be eligible for the Bolashak international scholarship program [6]. Kazakhstan has a record of nearly 200 gold, more than 300 silver, and approximately 500 bronze medals in international academic competitions since last year [6]. Tokayev stated that specialists in artificial intelligence will be in especially high demand.
Looking Ahead
Tokayev thanked teachers and parents for raising a generation with high intellectual potential. He also emphasized that through innovation and advanced technology, they are laying a strong foundation for the nation's development for decades to come [6]. The Kazakhstan nuclear power plant currently remains without a name, but with the upcoming competition, the public will have the opportunity to contribute to this historic milestone in Kazakhstan's energy and innovation sectors.
The nationwide competition to name Kazakhstan's first nuclear power plant offers an opportunity for creativity and public involvement in education-and-self-development, particularly encouraging young scientists to demonstrate their skills in science and technology.
The establishment of a competition committee, consisting of representatives from various disciplines such as the creative industry, nuclear energy experts, philology, and history, underscores the importance of interdisciplinary knowledge in promoting nationwide progress.
