AN INTERNATIONAL STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP FORUM “KAZAKHSTAN – A SPACE FOR ACADEMIC EDUCATION” WAS HELD IN ASTANA

President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan Sayasat Nurbek, as well as leaders of leading global universities and international ranking and accreditation agencies participated in the International Strategic Partnership Forum “Kazakhstan – A Space for Academic Education,” which took place today in Astana. The forum was also attended by the Rector of Sarsen Amanzholov East Kazakhstan University, Mukhtar Tolegen. The forum became a major international platform for discussing new trends in the global education system, the transformation of higher education, the role of artificial intelligence, and directions for the commercialization of science.

Kazakhstan is entering a new stage in the development of higher education and science. In recent years, investments in this sector have increased significantly, the potential of research universities has expanded, and academic autonomy has been strengthened. Initiatives such as the “National Fund – for Children,” the educational savings system “Keleshyek,” interest-free educational loans, and the construction of campuses and dormitories are systemic measures aimed at supporting youth and improving access to education in the country.

Special attention at the forum was given to the implementation of artificial intelligence in the education system. Kazakhstan, in collaboration with OpenAI, is conducting trials of educational tools based on ChatGPT. Foundations of artificial intelligence are being taught in all educational institutions, and preparations are underway to create a new university specializing in AI training. This year alone, more than 540,000 students have gained knowledge in artificial intelligence. This is an important strategic step aimed at ensuring the country’s technological future.

At the forum, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted:

“Kazakhstan is confidently moving toward becoming a country of advanced technologies. It can be said with certainty that this is a crucial part of our new national identity,” the president said.

Kazakhstan aims to become a global educational center. Currently, the country hosts branches of 33 foreign universities and has established strategic partnerships with about 40 universities. More than 31,000 international students study in Kazakhstan, and by 2029, this number is planned to increase to 100,000. This will boost the country’s international academic competitiveness and contribute to the formation of a multilingual, open educational space.

Leaders from prestigious universities such as MEPhI, Minerva University, Cardiff University, MGIMO, Beijing Language and Culture University, and others participated in the forum. Discussions focused on training engineering personnel, integrating science and industry, and developing joint innovative projects.

The development of academic diplomacy, focusing education and science on the benefit of humanity, supporting talent, and expanding international cooperation were key principles of the forum. Kazakhstan pays special attention to forming a new generation with innovative thinking and global competitiveness.

Sarsen Amanzholov East Kazakhstan University is also working in line with these strategic directions. The university is expanding international cooperation, strengthening research potential, and taking systematic steps to implement artificial intelligence and digital technologies in the educational process. The forum opened new opportunities for the university and contributed to strengthening collaboration with the global academic community.

By continuing to provide youth with quality education, developing a research culture, and creating an innovative environment, Sarsen Amanzholov East Kazakhstan University contributes to the renewal of Kazakhstan’s education and science system.