News

On March 5, 2026, the university hosted a grand event titled "Eki Zhuldyz" (Two Stars), dedicated to the brightest spring holiday — International Women's Day on March 8. This year's concert theme, "The World of Cinema: Woman in the Leading Role," beautifully intertwined art and elegance.

The festive evening was officially opened by the University President, who highlighted the invaluable contribution of women to society, particularly in the fields of science and education. As a special gesture to brighten the festive mood, every lady in the audience was presented with a bouquet of flowers.

The primary goal of the event was to strengthen creative bonds between university faculty and students while celebrating the pivotal role of women in society. Throughout the program, participants brought famous cinematic characters to life and captivated the audience with musical performances. Faculty members and students performed in duets, truly living up to the prestige of the "Two Stars" project.

The most exciting moment of the evening was the announcement of the winners. According to the jury's decision, the prizes were awarded as follows:

Each winning pair was presented with a cash prize. These awards served as a wonderful recognition of the participants' hard work and creative talent.

Organized by the Department of Student Affairs, this evening significantly contributed to developing the university's corporate culture and fostering mutual respect between mentors and students.

Students of the Pedagogical Institute have been awarded the Presidential

Scholarship of the Republic of Kazakhstan in recognition of their outstanding

academic achievements, research activity, and active participation in university

life.

The scholarship recipients are:

 Madiyar Yessenov – 3rd-year student of the educational program 6B01703

“Foreign Language: Two Foreign Languages”;

 Meruert Shertanova – 3rd-year student of the educational program

6B01502 “Biology”;

 Artem Bulanin – 4th-year student of the educational program 6B01501

“Informatics”.

The Presidential Scholarship is one of the most prestigious forms of support for

students who demonstrate excellent academic performance, research potential, and

dedication to professional growth.

The Pedagogical Institute congratulates the students on this significant

achievement and wishes them continued success, new accomplishments, and

further academic excellence.

The University's Psychological Service held an Open Day at the Graduate School of Arts and

Humanities. The event included interactive lectures, webinars, and express consultations.

The program included an interactive lecture by AIU psychologist B.Zh. Sanatova on "Emotional

Management and Developing Emotional Intelligence." During the lecture, participants learned about

ways to recognize emotions, effectively manage them, and develop emotional intelligence.

Additionally, a webinar on "Personal Boundaries and Safety: Stalking Prevention" was held by

head of the AIU Psychological Service, psychologist Venera Eleu. The event comprehensively examined

the concept of personal boundaries, safe behavior skills, psychological signs of stalking, and methods for

preventing it.

A webinar on "The Stages of Chemical Dependency Development" was led by clinical

psychologist Almat Baltabekov. The invited expert provided information on the stages of chemical

dependency, its psychological and social consequences, and prevention methods. The express

consultations included psychological testing, art therapy exercises, and informational outreach.

Participants, along with fourth-year students in the Psychology program, were offered practical tasks

aimed at self-knowledge, understanding their emotional state, assessing their stress levels, and developing

psychological resources.

The goal of the event was to foster a culture of psychological awareness among students,

strengthen a supportive atmosphere, and introduce them to the capabilities of the university's

Psychological Services.

As part of the work plan of the Psychological Service of the University, a number of

measures for psychological prevention among first-year students were carried out. The main goal

is to strengthen the psychological well-being of students, increase their emotional stability and

support in the educational process.

During lectures and trainings, students got acquainted with the concept of emotional

intelligence, acquired skills in recognizing and regulating their emotions, stress management,

and effective time planning.

In the process of group discussions and exercises, special attention was paid to enhancing

students' self-confidence and self-esteem, identifying their internal resources, fostering a positive

self-perception, and developing effective social interaction skills.

The Psychological Service will continue its systematic work aimed at strengthening the

mental health of students.

Astana International University hosted a warm and productive meeting with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Spain Kingdom, Mr. Luis Francisco Martinez Montes. The visit began with an official conversation with the university leadership, where they discussed new opportunities for education and exchange programs between our countries. As a sign of deep respect and commitment to national traditions, the AIU leadership presented the guest with a special gift — a Kazakh kamcha. This symbol of courage and honor became a vivid gesture of our university's hospitality.

The visit continued with an open lecture dedicated to the strategic partnership between Kazakhstan and Spain. The Ambassador gave an exciting presentation, revealing the cooperation between our countries from unexpected and very interesting angles. The speaker talked about deep cultural and sporting ties, recalling the legendary match between "Kairat" and "Real Madrid," which remains in the memory of fans forever. He also mentioned the famous sculpture by Jaume Plensa, which has become a symbol of modern art in Kazakhstan. Another striking example was a large-scale film project about Karlag, filmed with the participation of Netflix, featuring actors from both Kazakhstan and Spain.

During the Q&A session, students were able to not only ask about politics but also receive valuable advice from a world-class professional. The Ambassador was very open with the students, and this accessibility and simplicity in communication resonated greatly with the audience. The meeting concluded with a commemorative photo to mark this friendly visit. Such events help AIU students feel like part of a larger world and inspire them to reach new heights in their studies and careers.

In today's world, the digitalization of cultural heritage is one of the most important global tasks. International organizations like UNESCO are actively using artificial intelligence to preserve historical monuments and make them accessible to future generations. Recognizing the importance of protecting the identity of the Turkic world and following global high-tech trends, Astana International University is expanding its participation in strategic digital projects.

This is why the university has joined a four-party Memorandum of Cooperation, uniting efforts with National Information Technologies (NITEC), the International Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation, and the Astana Hub international IT startup park. This agreement aims to create a modern digital ecosystem to preserve the cultural values of Turkic peoples. The main goal of the partners is to use artificial intelligence to digitize and promote historical heritage.

A key part of the signed document is the plan to create a unique Digital Platform of Turkic Heritage based on the AlemGPT system. The partners intend to develop all necessary documents for the project's operation and create high-quality digital content that reflects the history of the Turkic world. All software will be developed according to modern technological requirements and international internet protocols.

The development of this large-scale project will take place at the Alem AI International Center for Artificial Intelligence. Creating such a platform is an important step in bringing together experts and forming a single digital space for studying the historical wealth of the Turkic world. For AIU, participating in this project confirms the university's status as an innovative center capable of turning scientific research into modern digital solutions.

Within the framework of UN SDG 4 “Quality Education” (ensuring inclusive and

equitable quality education, including the acquisition of knowledge and skills needed to

promote sustainable development, including sustainable production and consumption, and

global citizenship), the leaders of the School of Green Economy, Prof. Lesbayeva G.T. and

Assoc. Prof. Baibash G.K., conducted an engaging business game.

The aim of the game was to demonstrate to students the impact of sustainable

development requirements (ESG principles) on the competitiveness of companies in

international trade and to develop an understanding of strategic decisions required when

entering the EU market (Green Deal, CBAM, environmental certification, due diligence, etc.).

Participants analyzed risks and opportunities for exporters, adapted supply chains and

business models to European “green” standards, and made managerial decisions under

conditions of competition and limited resources. This enabled them to practically master key

21st-century competencies: strategic thinking, teamwork, and decision-making under

uncertainty.

Congratulations to the winners and all participants:

1st place — Team of group MB-23B: Belokur Kristina, Baklaga Margarita, Iskakova

Albina, Mustafaevа Leyli, Amirtai Diana.

2nd place — Team “Sirius” (group MB-23B): Қabysh Aruzhan, Nugman Aktilek,

Salikhova Neyla, Erkesh Ayazhan, Zhumasheva Aiym.

3rd place - Team “EcoGrainAgro” (group MB-24B): Alshimbayeva Rakhilya,

Abenova Dana, Yerzhan Darina, Bakytkyzy Akbota, Kushkinbay Aruzhan.

The team from group MB-24B also participated Zhurbin Alexander, Zabara Igor,

Baymukhambet Karina, Sagi Nuray, Zakharova Tatyana - thank you for your active

involvement and interest in the topic.

Астана халықаралық университеті білім беру сапасын арттыру және

студенттердің тәжірибелік дағдыларын дамыту бағытындағы жұмыстарын жүйелі

түрде жалғастыруда. Университет материалдық-техникалық базасын жаңартып,

робототехника, бағдарламалау, электроника және Заттар интернеті (IoT)

технологиялары бойынша заманауи оқу жабдықтарын сатып алды.

Аталған құрал-жабдықтар оқу үдерісінде кеңінен қолданылып, студенттердің

теориялық білімін тәжірибемен ұштастыруға мүмкіндік береді. Жаңа ресурстар

арқылы білім алушылар:

 сыни ойлау және инженерлік талдау қабілеттерін дамытады;

 заманауи технологияларды тәжірибе жүзінде меңгереді;

 робототехника мен IoT бағытында жобалар әзірлейді;

 болашақта сұранысқа ие мамандықтарға кәсіби тұрғыда дайындалады.

Университеттің басты мақсаты – инновациялық білім беру ортасын

қалыптастыру, студенттердің ғылыми-зерттеу және жобалық қызметке белсенді

қатысуына жағдай жасау.

Біз сапалы білім мен заманауи технологияларды біріктіре отырып, бәсекеге

қабілетті мамандарды даярлауды жалғастырамыз.

Today, the Astana International University hosted the second day of a large-scale workshop dedicated to the development of dual degree programs. This event brought together the university leadership, deans of higher schools, and heads of educational programs to address one of the most ambitious goals: making our students' education truly global.

The primary focus of the meeting was to transform complex theory into working practice. Participants analyzed in detail how to align the curricula of Kazakhstani and foreign universities so that a student could study in two countries simultaneously and receive two full-fledged diplomas upon completion. This opens doors to major international companies and provides graduates with a tremendous advantage in the labor market. It is important to note that such initiatives for sharing experience and implementing cutting-edge educational standards are being carried out at our university with the support of the British Council.

During lively discussions, experts explored not only legal intricacies but also the actual student experience. How can academic mobility be organized to make moving to another country comfortable? How can the grading system be adapted to meet international requirements? These questions were addressed through group work, where each faculty proposed ideas for creating a unified Regulation on Dual Degree Education at AIU.

The practical outcome of the day was a detailed analysis of case studies from leading Kazakhstani universities and the development of our own growth strategy. Participants did not just gain new knowledge; they applied it in practice by designing the lifecycle of future programs. The workshop concluded on a positive note with a discussion of the results achieved and an official certificate award ceremony.

On February 26, 2026, the Al-Farabi Palace of Schoolchildren hosted one of the most anticipated events of Astana International University — the "Miss AIU – 2026" competition. The gala evening brought together over 500 spectators, including university leadership, faculty, and students, who witnessed a true celebration of talent and intellect.

The key feature of the contest was its focus not only on external beauty but also on defining the status of women in society and the image of а modern young woman. During the event, the participants reflected on the initiatives of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, voiced at the recent National Kurultai, regarding the need to firmly oppose violence against women, including stalking and forced marriage. In this regard, the contestants, through their performances and interviews, emphasized that the rights and dignity of every woman are strictly protected by the state.

The results of this competitive and meaningful evening are as follows:

Grand Prix and the title "Miss AIU –

2026" were awarded to Zholdas Aisha, a student of the Pedagogical

Institute.

1st Place went to Yertugan Damira, a student of the Higher School of Arts and Humanities. 2nd Place was secured by Kakimova Aimoldir, a student of the Higher School of Natural Sciences. 3rd Place was awarded to Batyrkhankyzy Ainur, a student of the Higher School of Economics.

The event, organized by the Department of Student Affairs, served as a significant educational milestone aimed at strengthening respect for women. We congratulate all the winners on their outstanding achievements! 

During the meeting, the content of the educational programs was comprehensively discussed,

including learning outcomes, course structure, competency framework, and their alignment with

labor market requirements.

The Academic Committee meeting was attended by committee members, faculty staff, as well as

experienced teachers and experts from Astana:

– Alua Seilkhanovna Kizatullina, Geography teacher of School-Lyceum No. 92 named after

Akzhan Al-Mashani, педагог-researcher;

– Khairat Yakiy, Geography teacher of School-Gymnasium No. 69 named after Kemel Akishev,

педагог-researcher;

– Bakytbek Kakim, Geography teacher of School-Lyceum No. 54 named after Aksелеу

Seidimbek, педагог-researcher;

– Gulzhan Bekmakhankyzy Orynbayeva, Geography teacher of School-Lyceum No. 88 named

after Kadyr Myrza Ali, педагог-expert.

Taking into account the recommendations of employers, experienced educators, and experts, the

committee members proposed specific improvements to enhance the educational programs.

As a result of the meeting, relevant decisions were made regarding the updating and approval of

the programs.

Contemporary art is a living matter of culture, the pulse of time in which history and innovation, personal experience, and collective memory intertwine. It requires not only mastery but also subtlety of perception, empathy, inner freedom, and respect for a diversity of views. Art is a space for dialogue where meanings are born and the future is shaped.

On February 27, 2026, a truly landmark event took place within the walls of AIU: a meeting of future design students with Giovanni Ottonello, the Art Director of the Istituto Europeo di Design (IED). Founded in Italy in 1966, this international university is rightfully considered a recognized leader in education in the fields of design, fashion, visual arts, communication, and management, combining the traditions of the European art school with modern innovative approaches.

The guest lecture on the inspiring topic "Randomness doesn’t exist! Broaden the perspective to see the big picture" became a genuine intellectual and creative revelation for the students of the Higher School of Arts and Humanities. The idea that there are no accidents in art, and that every element is part of a larger concept, resonated deeply with the audience.

The warm reception, the profound engagement of the students, and the many insightful questions were evidence of a true dialogue—a dialogue between creative, thinking individuals sincerely dedicated to their calling.

A special moment of the visit was the professor's introduction to the university museum, presented by the Dean of the HSAH, Sayat Ibrai. The rich collection of carpets, household items, and jewelry revealed centuries of history and the unique culture of the Kazakh people—a culture where ornament, form, and material carry the philosophy of the steppe, the memory of generations, and aesthetic harmony.

Professor Ottonello highly praised the openness, erudition, and interdisciplinary thinking of AIU students, noting the depth of their ideas and sincere interest in the profession. This meeting was not just a lecture but a significant cultural event—a space of inspiration where tradition and modernity, national heritage, and the global artistic context merged.

Such events strengthen the belief that art knows no borders, and that creative collaboration and the exchange of experience become the foundation for the birth of new ideas and the shaping of the future of world design thought.