PhD at Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University, Kazakhstan\
Dr. Yerlan Issakov is a distinguished scholar and researcher in the field of geography and tourism, holding a PhD from Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University. With over a decade of academic and teaching experience, he has made significant contributions to tourism education, local lore competence, and sustainable development. He has served as a senior lecturer and researcher across multiple institutions, actively participating in national and international research grants. Dr. Issakov’s scholarly output is prolific, with over 40 published works in esteemed journals and conferences, many of which focus on tourism innovation, geoinformation technologies, and environmental sustainability. He is deeply involved in curriculum development, capacity building, and international collaboration. Recognized for his commitment to educational excellence and scientific advancement, Dr. Issakov is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, demonstrating both breadth and depth in research, pedagogical innovation, and societal impact through sustainable tourism and geographic education.
Professional Profile:
Education
Dr. Yerlan Issakov has pursued a comprehensive and focused academic journey in the fields of geography and tourism. He earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, specializing in Geography, where he developed a strong foundation in spatial analysis, environmental studies, and regional development. Driven by a passion for advancing scientific knowledge and educational practices, he went on to obtain his PhD from Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University. His doctoral research focused on tourism and local lore competence, reflecting his dedication to integrating academic inquiry with real-world applications in sustainable tourism and regional heritage. Throughout his academic career, Dr. Issakov has continued to expand his expertise through various professional development programs, international trainings, and research projects, which have further enriched his skills in geoinformation systems, educational technology, and strategic planning. His educational background reflects a strong commitment to academic excellence, interdisciplinary learning, and innovative research in tourism and geography.
Professional Experience
Dr. Yerlan Issakov has built an extensive professional career in academia and research, primarily focused on tourism, geography, and education. He has held various academic positions, progressing from lecturer to associate professor, and currently serves as the Head of the Tourism Department at Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University. With over a decade of teaching experience, he has designed and taught numerous courses related to geography, tourism management, and sustainable development. In addition to his teaching roles, Dr. Issakov has actively participated in national and international research projects, contributing to the advancement of tourism science and regional development strategies. He has authored and co-authored multiple scientific publications, including monographs and textbooks, and is regularly involved in organizing academic conferences and seminars. His leadership in curriculum development and academic administration demonstrates his dedication to enhancing the quality of education in Kazakhstan, while promoting innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and global engagement in the tourism sector.
Research interest
Dr. Yerlan Issakov’s research interests lie at the intersection of tourism development, geography, and sustainable regional planning. He is particularly focused on exploring the potential of ecotourism and cultural tourism as drivers of economic growth and environmental conservation in Kazakhstan and Central Asia. His work delves into the spatial organization of tourism infrastructure, the socio-economic impacts of tourism on local communities, and the integration of geographic information systems (GIS) in tourism research. Dr. Issakov is also interested in the development of educational models for tourism studies, aiming to align academic programs with international standards and the evolving demands of the global tourism industry. He regularly contributes to interdisciplinary studies that address climate change, heritage preservation, and rural development through tourism. His research supports policymaking and strategic planning at regional and national levels, making a significant contribution to Kazakhstan’s vision of becoming a sustainable and competitive destination in the global tourism market.
Research skill
Dr. Yerlan Issakov possesses a diverse and well-developed set of research skills, particularly in the fields of geography education, sustainable tourism, and cultural heritage integration. His ability to design and implement effective research methodologies is evident in his work on developing competencies in tourism and local lore for future geography teachers. He is skilled in qualitative and quantitative research, curriculum development, and pedagogical modeling. Dr. Issakov also demonstrates proficiency in utilizing modern digital tools such as mobile GIS applications and MOOCs to enhance the educational experience. His analytical skills enable him to assess the effectiveness of educational programs and identify gaps in tourism education. Additionally, he is experienced in interdisciplinary research, often bridging geography with education, technology, and cultural studies. His capacity to conduct applied research, produce practical solutions, and publish findings in reputable academic journals highlights his effectiveness as a researcher and contributor to educational innovation in Kazakhstan.
Conclusion
Issakov Yerlan Duysenbekovich is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award, particularly in the fields of geography, tourism studies, sustainable development, and education methodology. His consistent publication record, international collaborations, impactful grant-funded research, and educational contributions reflect both depth and breadth in his academic pursuits. With continued international engagement and dissemination, his influence is poised to grow further.
Publications top Noted
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Issakov, Y., Aktymbayeva, A.S., Savanchiyeva, A.S., Zhu, K., & Dávid, L.D. (2025). Opportunities and Perspectives of Formation of the Mountain Tourism Cluster in Almaty Agglomeration. GeoJournal of Tourism and Geosites.
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Ayana, D., Zhaparkulova, E.D., Issakov, Y., Zhu, K., & Dávid, L.D. (2024). The possibility of using groundwater and collector-drainage water to increase water availability in the Maktaaral district of the Turkestan region of Kazakhstan. Agricultural Water Management.