INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TO BE LAUNCHED AT AMANZHOLOV UNIVERSITY

A delegation from Sarsen Amanzholov East Kazakhstan University paid an official visit to Malaysia, where large-scale agreements were signed with one of the country’s leading institutions, the Sultan Idris Education University (Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris, UPSI), as well as with several other major organizations. The delegation included Rector Mukhtar Tolegen, academic representatives, leading scientists, and the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kazakhstan to Malaysia, Bolat Sugurbaev.

Earlier, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized the need for the widespread integration of artificial intelligence across all sectors of the economy. In line with this vision, Amanzholov University is actively implementing the unique “AI-SANA” program, aimed at developing digital skills among students. The program will cover about 100,000 participants and will foster the creation of DeepTech startups in Kazakhstan.

According to Minister of Science and Higher Education Sayasat Nurbek, the program consists of four stages, during which students will master the fundamentals of artificial intelligence through platforms such as Coursera, Huawei, and Astana Hub.

In 2024, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim, made an official visit to Kazakhstan. During the talks, President Tokayev highlighted the importance of expanding cooperation in tourism, trade, economy, culture, and spiritual exchange, resulting in the launch of a direct flight route “Kuala Lumpur – Almaty – Kuala Lumpur.”

During the visit, Rector Mukhtar Tolegen held extensive discussions with UPSI President Professor Dato’ Dr. Md Amin bin Md Taff on integrating artificial intelligence into the systems of education and science. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed, which includes the establishment of the International School of Artificial Intelligence (AI School).

The memorandum also envisions joint double-degree programs in pedagogy, physics, information technology, artificial intelligence, and digital solutions; academic exchanges for students and faculty; and joint scientific projects in nuclear physics, hydrogen energy, inclusive education, and digital transformation.

During the meeting, Rector Tolegen also proposed the creation of an Abai Cultural and Educational Center in Malaysia. The center will promote the Kazakh language, culture, spiritual heritage, and philosophical ideas of Abai at the international level.

Through the partnership with UPSI, Amanzholov University will continue to develop in line with global standards. This cooperation will enhance the quality of education, strengthen the research potential, and improve the university’s position in the QS World University Rankings. The establishment of the International School of Artificial Intelligence marks the beginning of a new era of high-quality education not only for the region but for the entire country. The university aims to elevate AI training to a new level by engaging international experts.

Amanzholov University annually graduates specialists in Nuclear Physics and Nuclear Physics and Atomic Energy. Many of them are successfully employed at major enterprises in the region, confirming the university’s leading role in preparing specialists for the country’s future nuclear power plant development.

The delegation also paid special attention to Malaysia’s experience in tourism development. The university plans to apply this experience to promote the historical and cultural heritage of East Kazakhstan internationally and to enhance its tourism education programs.

Thanks to the university’s advantageous geographic location in a tourist region, graduates will gain not only a quality education but also real employment opportunities. According to Rector Tolegen, tourism development positively impacts both the country’s economy and its international image.

Additionally, a research project led by Professor Aizhan Kartayeva has received grant funding. Within this project, historical and natural sites of East Kazakhstan will be digitized, a tourist route map and a digital anthology of local legends will be created, providing visitors with an innovative and informative experience.