GEF-UNDP-UNESCO Cryosphere project handed over VR-equipment to Kyrgyzstan

On 21 January 2026, the UNESCO Regional Office in Almaty handed over innovative virtual reality equipment to the Kyrgyz National University named after Jusup Balasagyn within the framework of the GEF–UNDP–UNESCO project “Strengthening the Resilience of Central Asian Countries by Enabling Regional Cooperation to Assess Glacio-nival Systems to Develop Integrated Methods for Sustainable Development and Adaptation to Climate Change” (the Cryosphere Project).

The equipment set includes three VR headsets with educational content, a tablet with additional materials, and the necessary accessories. The equipment will allow students to explore Central Asian landscapes virtually and better understand the role of glaciers in water supply, hydropower, and agriculture, as well as the associated natural risks. The use of virtual reality helps to clearly illustrate cryosphere processes and the impacts of accelerated glacier melt.

The Faculty of Geography, Ecology and Tourism of the Kyrgyz National University named after Jusup Balasagyn was selected as a national project partner due to its active involvement in the development of the Diagnostic Analysis, preparation of recommendations, and participation in national and subregional consultations. The University has committed to ensuring the safekeeping of the equipment and its use in educational and public outreach activities, including demonstrations for students and the wider public.

As part of the handover ceremony, an interactive quiz titled “What Do I Know About the Cryosphere?” was organized for students. Participants answered questions in real time, and the top three winners received commemorative prizes from the project.

About the project
The project “Strengthening the Resilience of Central Asian Countries by Enabling Regional Cooperation to Assess Glacio-nival Systems to Develop Integrated Methods for Sustainable Development and Adaptation to Climate Change”, funded by the GEF through UNDP and implemented by UNESCO, aims to address key climate challenges related to changes in the cryosphere, including glaciers, permafrost, and snow cover. These changes have a significant impact on the region’s water resources, which are critical for livelihoods, agriculture, and energy production. The project promotes strengthened regional cooperation and the joint development of climate change adaptation strategies.