INCLUSION OF THE FUTURE: HOW AMANZHOLOV UNIVERSITY CREATES SOLUTIONS FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS

Since November 2023, Sarsen Amanzholov University has been successfully implementing commercialization project No. DP21682148, “Competence Center for Psychological and Pedagogical Training and Methodological-Technological Support for Children with Special Educational Needs.” The project is funded by JSC “Science Fund” and co-financed by the university, combining scientific research, practical application, and production in the field of inclusive education.

As part of the project, a Competence Center has been established and opened in Academic Building No. 7 (148 Shakarim Avenue). The center is equipped with modern technology, including laser machines, a CNC lathe, a cutting plotter, a smart mirror, computer equipment, and other tools necessary for developing and producing specialized products.

To date, more than 15 types of domestic products for children with special educational needs have been developed, offering competitive advantages. Five patents for technical devices and 14 copyright certificates for interactive simulators and methodological developments have been obtained.

One of the key developments is the professional defectologist desk — an innovative educational complex with automated control, adjustable elements, and integrated speech therapy and developmental simulators, primarily in the state language. Other developments include verticalization chairs, balance boards, adjustable tables and chairs, sensory-dynamic complexes, and additional solutions.

Production of these products is organized through a manufacturing unit at the university, as well as in partnership with the Ust-Kamenogorsk Training and Production Enterprise “Kazakh Society of the Deaf.” This collaboration supports not only the production of high-tech products but also the creation of jobs for people with disabilities.

The developments are already implemented and successfully used in various institutions in the East Kazakhstan region: psychological-pedagogical correction rooms, boarding schools, rehabilitation centers, and by private individuals. Project partners include the rehabilitation and correction center “DEMEY,” the regional PMPC, and the inclusive education center “DanaBala.”

Alongside production activities, active educational work is being carried out. Professional development courses for teachers, workshops, and consultations have been organized, involving over 1,000 participants. The courses cover support for children with special educational needs, use of digital speech therapy tools, and rehabilitation methods, including hippotherapy.

The project demonstrates stable economic growth:

• In 2023, sales amounted to 1,867,500 tenge,
• In 2024, 22,803,500 tenge,
• In 2025, 4,777,000 tenge (implementation extended until the end of 2026).

Despite these achievements, there remains a challenge in insufficient awareness among educational and correctional organizations about the capabilities of domestic developments. Support is needed to promote and implement these products at the regional and national levels.

The project’s potential market includes over 22,000 organizations and about 200,000 individuals: kindergartens, schools, inclusion offices, rehabilitation and correction centers, as well as families raising children with special educational needs. In the East Kazakhstan region alone, there are more than 11,000 such children.

Wide-scale implementation of these developments will significantly improve the material and technical base of institutions, enhance methodological support, and promote domestic production while creating new jobs.

The Competence Center project is an example of effective integration of science, education, and social responsibility, aimed at creating an accessible and high-quality environment for every child.