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Galum AbilsiitovFormer Minister of Science and New Technologies and former Vice Prime Minister in the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan
Country:
 Kazakhstan |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- Building the Science City of Troitsk
- Director of the Laser Research Center
- Minister of Science and Technology in Kazakhstan
- Business and Political Activism
- Opposition and Return to Science
- Awards and Recognition
Early Life and Career
Galym Abilsiitov, a pivotal figure in the scientific and political landscape of Kazakhstan and the Soviet Union, began his journey as a student leader. In 1961, he commanded an MGU construction detachment, followed by leadership roles in the Pavlodar Regional Detachment and the All-Union Detachment.
Building the Science City of Troitsk
From 1971 to 1979, Abilsiitov served as Deputy Director of the Kurchatov Institute of Atomic Energy (FIAN) in Moscow. In this capacity, he became the de facto leader of the construction of Troitsk, a science city in the Moscow region.
Director of the Laser Research Center
In 1979, Abilsiitov was appointed Director of the Scientific Research Center for Technological Lasers of the USSR Academy of Sciences in Shatura. His tenure marked a period of innovation and scientific discovery.
Minister of Science and Technology in Kazakhstan
Following the collapse of the USSR, Abilsiitov transitioned to the government of Kazakhstan. From 1992 to 1994, he served as Minister of Science and New Technologies and Vice Prime Minister under Prime Minister Sergei Tereshchenko. During his tenure, he played a key role in the negotiation to lease the Baikonur Cosmodrome.
Business and Political Activism
In 1994, Abilsiitov left the government and ventured into business, becoming President of the National Joint-Stock Company "Tekhnosystem" and the Institute of Systems and Technological Projects "Instistip." However, political motivations led to his brief detention in 1996-1997. In protest, he went on a hunger strike and was arrested in poor health.
Opposition and Return to Science
In 1997, Abilsiitov joined the opposition against Prime Minister Nurlan Balgimbayev and co-founded the "Azamat" movement. Today, he has largely withdrawn from politics and dedicated himself to applied scientific research.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout his career, Abilsiitov has received numerous accolades. As a fourth-year student, he was awarded the Order of the Badge of Honor. As Director of the Laser Research Center, he was honored with the Order of the Red Banner of Labor. He is also a Laureate of the USSR State Prize in Science and Technology (1984).
