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On April 16, Astana International University was honored to welcome His Excellency Edwin Yabo Glusman, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the State of Israel to the Republic of Kazakhstan, on an official visit.

During the meeting with the university leadership, opportunities for developing cooperation in the field of higher education and science were discussed. Particular attention was given to academic exchanges, internship programs, and the prospects for joint scientific research.

Both parties noted the strong potential for partnership in areas such as economics and water resources. These fields are highly relevant both for Kazakhstan and the international academic community. Representatives of AIU expressed interest in establishing direct ties with several Israeli universities, including Bar-Ilan University and the Holon Institute of Technology.

Discussions also included possible formats for student and faculty participation in international educational programs and the potential for organizing joint activities within the framework of scientific and cultural exchange.

Special attention was paid to issues of effective water resource management. The Ambassador shared Israel’s experience in addressing water scarcity and sustainable use of natural resources. These approaches are of interest to Kazakhstan, particularly in the context of urbanization and efficient water distribution.

AIU is considering participation in initiatives aimed at the development of sustainable water use technologies. In this regard, the involvement of students in research and practice-oriented projects is emphasized as a key component.

The visit also included discussions on economic and philosophical concepts that support sustainable development and the rational use of natural resources. These topics may serve as a foundation for future joint academic discussions.

The parties agreed to initiate cooperation within the framework of the Israel–Kazakhstan Cooperation Forum, which will take place from April 21 to 23, 2025, in Astana. AIU’s participation in this event will mark the starting point for the development of academic and scientific partnership.

AIU expresses its sincere gratitude to Mr. Edwin Yabo Glusman for his visit and looks forward to continuing dialogue and collaboration.

AIU Professor Receives High Ministerial Award for Science Day

On the eve of Science Day, April 11, Dr. Serik Amangeldinovich Nurkenov, PhD in Philosophy and Associate Professor at Astana International University, was awarded the badge of honor “For Merits in the Development of Science” by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

This high ministerial award was presented in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the development of science, his many years of research activity, and his significant academic and pedagogical work. Receiving this recognition ahead of the professional holiday is a symbolic and truly meaningful event for both the awardee and the entire university.

Astana International University proudly celebrates the achievements of Serik Amangeldinovich and sincerely congratulates him on this well-deserved recognition. We wish him new discoveries, continued inspiration, and further success in his scientific and teaching endeavors!

We are proud to announce that students and master's candidates from Astana International University have achieved outstanding success at the XX National Scientific Conference "Science and Education-2025", securing top awards!

Winners:

🥇 Turekasym Zhanar – 1st place (6В01506 – Mathematics)
🥈 Kalapbergenova Dana – 2nd place (7М01511 – Mathematics, Master's program)
🥉 Amanbay Meruert – 3rd place (6В01506 – Mathematics)

Additionally, Safin Akerke received a Letter of Appreciation from the Rector for exceptional academic performance.

Congratulations to our winners and their supervisors! Your dedication and hard work inspire the entire university community.

Astana International University is committed to fostering academic excellence and empowering future leaders in science!

On the eve of Science Day, School No. 101 hosted a school competition of scientific projects titled "Scientific Project – Success in Education" as part of the "Dara Zertteushi" ("Gifted Researcher") project.

Honorable guests and jury members included scientists from the Eurasian National University and Astana International University.
AIU was represented by:

·                     Daman Aukylovna Nurgaliyeva – Candidate of Pedagogical Sciences, Associate Professor, Head of the Chemistry, Biology, and Geography disciplines;

·                     Gulnar Murzakanqyzy Nurgazina – PhD, Senior Lecturer in Chemistry.

As part of the competition, students from grades 1 to 11 presented their scientific and creative projects, demonstrating a strong interest in research activities and modern approaches to studying relevant topics.

A total of 80 students participated in the competition. The organizers wished all participants success in future stages and inspiration in their scientific journey.

On April 11, 2025, Kadyr Ibragim, a 4th-year student of the Physics educational program at Astana International University, won 1st place at the XX International Scientific Conference of Students and Young Scientists held at L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University.

His presentation titled “Solving the Schrödinger Equation in Physics and Modelling Molecular Structures using MATLAB” was delivered during the session of the Department of General and Theoretical Physics. The work explored modern approaches to solving the Schrödinger equation and the use of MATLAB software for modeling molecular structures.

The scientific advisor of the project was Candidate of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, PhD, Associate Professor Serik Amangeldinovich Nurkenov.

We congratulate the student and his scientific supervisor on this well-deserved victory and wish them continued success in their academic endeavors.

On April 11, 2025, Astana International University hosted a workshop titled "AI Abuse and Academic Integrity", addressing critical issues of artificial intelligence in education, ethical challenges, and methods to uphold academic honesty.

Key Discussion Topics:

• AI in Education – benefits for learning and potential risks.
• AI Abuse in Academic Work – ghostwriting, contract cheating, and automated content replication.
• AI-Assisted Plagiarism – detection tools and integrity assessment.
• University AI Policies – global practices and regulatory recommendations.
• Preventing Academic Fraud – fostering critical thinking and a culture of honesty among students.

Experts and educators shared case studies, debated best practices, and proposed strategies to mitigate technology misuse. A key focus was balancing innovation with academic ethics and the role of teachers in promoting responsible AI use.

The interactive workshop included debates, real-life scenario analyses, and collaborative solution-building. This event marked a significant step toward a transparent and ethical educational environment in the digital age.

On April 10, the Day of Science, the Geography Club organized a round table titled "Kanysh of the Kazakhs", dedicated to the life and scientific legacy of Kanysh Imantayuly Satpayev, the outstanding Kazakh geologist, founder of domestic science, and public figure.

The event aimed to promote the academician's contributions among young people and foster interest in science and education. As per tradition, first-year students were assigned to read and discuss Medeu Sarseke’s book "Kanysh of the Kazakhs" at the beginning of the academic year.

The program included:

·                     Theatrical performances based on Satpayev’s life,

·                     Documentary videos about the academician,

·                     Presentations on "The 21st Century – The Era of Kanysh", "Kanysh Satpayev – A Man of the World", and "Kanysh and the Scientific Front".

Students actively participated in interactive games, engaged in open discussions, and expressed deep respect for Satpayev’s scientific journey, emphasizing the relevance of his legacy today.

At the end of the event, senior lecturer Aknur Bakhytzhankyzy Sagynbayeva awarded the most active participants with certificates of appreciation and gifts.

"The path of science is a bright path. Let’s walk it together!"

On April 11, a career guidance session was held at the Pedagogical Institute of Astana International University with 10th grade students from School No. 85.

During the visit, the students were presented with an introductory presentation about the university, its academic programs, and student life. They also watched a video about AIU, learned about the various teaching-related professions offered at the institute, and gained insight into life as a future university student.

Representatives of the Pedagogical Institute introduced the guests to the official AIU website and provided detailed information about the admissions process, student activities, and the advantages of studying at AIU.

Such meetings help school students make informed career choices and inspire them to pursue quality pedagogical education. We thank the students and teachers of School No. 85 for their visit and interest in our university!

In March and April, our university hosted a series of meetings, lectures, and group consultations conducted by the psychologist of the Psychological Counseling Center, Venera Alashybaikyzy Eleu. The main focus of these events was suicide prevention — one of the most pressing issues among youth today.

During the meetings, topics such as maintaining psychological well-being, the impact of mental health on quality of life, life values, and the underlying causes of suicidal behavior were discussed. Practical guidelines were provided on how to support oneself or a loved one facing psychological difficulties. Group consultations were also held, where students' questions were answered.

Approximately 700 first- and second-year students from all higher education schools participated in the events.

From March 17 to April 11, 2025, Astana International University hosted a series of master classes, training sessions, and a quiz aimed at improving students’ financial literacy. The program covered a range of relevant topics, including personal budgeting, recognizing financial fraud, cybersecurity issues, and more.

A total of 446 students participated in the in-person master classes, while over 200 additional students completed online training. The final stage of the project was a financial literacy quiz, which required prior completion of an online course on the enbek.kz platform. Students not only received certificates but also had the opportunity to demonstrate their teamwork skills.

The main goal of the project was to foster responsible financial behavior among young people and equip them with the tools to protect themselves from potential digital threats.

On behalf of the Higher School of Economics, we thank all colleagues and students for their active involvement and participation in this important initiative!

Special thanks go to the project curators from the Higher Schools and Pedagogical Institute: A.A. Usipbekov, Zh.D. Seilkhanov, G.S. Karimova, A.B. Kazhigalieva, A.S. Kydyrova, and A.N. Sultangaziyeva.

We also express our gratitude to the instructors and guest speakers from the Higher School of Economics: B.Zh. Baltabayev, R.K. Berstembayeva, G.I. Nurzhanova, T.M. Usenbayev, G.E. Zhusupbekova, and all partner speakers involved in the project!

As part of the Kazakh Language and Literature Week, a reading conference on the topic "Charity and Poverty in Kazakh Folklore" was held at Astana International University.

The event brought together students, faculty, and all those interested in Kazakh oral literary traditions. Participants discussed the reflection of social issues in folklore, the significance of charity and generosity in Kazakh culture, and the educational value of literary heritage.

🔹 Deep meaning and moral lessons in folklore
🔹 Generosity as a core national value
🔹 Understanding and strengthening national identity through literature

The conference was held in an interactive format, allowing participants to share their thoughts, provide examples, and engage in meaningful discussion.
This event offered students an opportunity to connect with the spiritual richness of the Kazakh people and expand their cultural horizons.

We thank all participants for their active involvement and interest!

An interactive preventive lecture-meeting dedicated to suicide prevention among youth was held at Astana International University, organized by the Psychological Counseling Office.

The main focus of the event was to promote mental well-being and prevent suicidal behavior. The lecture also addressed important topics such as emotional intelligence and managing emotions.

During the session, students learned about ways to identify early psychological difficulties, deal with emotional challenges, and the importance of seeking help when needed.

The event was attended by students from the Pedagogical Institute, who actively participated in the discussion. The open-dialogue format allowed participants not only to gain useful information but also to share their own thoughts and experiences.

This event marked another step by the university in supporting students’ mental health and fostering a safe and supportive educational environment.