On December 23, 2025, the Botai State Historical and Cultural Museum-Reserve  hosted a round table discussion online via Zoom titled: “Archaeological Research in Northern Kazakhstan: Current Challenges and Solutions.” The purpose of the event was to discuss pressing issues related to the preservation, study, and development of the historical and cultural heritage of the North Kazakhstan region. The round table brought together participants including the archaeologist, Candidate of Historical Sciences, and Professor at M. Kozybayev North Kazakhstan University, Anatoly Andreyevich Pleshakov; staff members from the Center for the Protection and Use of Historical and Cultural Heritage of the North Kazakhstan Region; the Akim of the Arykbalyk Rural District; as well as research staff of the Botai Museum-Reserve.

The discussion focused on plans for joint works in 2026, explored promising directions for archaeological research in Northern Kazakhstan, and addressed issues related to the coordination of scientific and fieldwork activities. Special attention was given to the discovery of mammoth bones in the Arykbalyk Rural District, their scientific significance, and prospects for further study. The discussion also covered the organization of archaeological field training for students of M. Kozybayev University, the engagement of youth in scientific research activities, and the development of continuity in the fields of archaeology and cultural heritage protection.