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Today, Astana International University had the honor of welcoming distinguished guests — Her Excellency Eva Polano, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Sweden to Kazakhstan, and Agnes Söderblad, an intern at the Swedish Embassy. This visit marked a significant milestone for our university, opening new horizons for strengthening international cooperation and academic mobility.

During the meeting, Ambassador Polano shared valuable professional and personal insights, recounting her inspiring journey into diplomacy, which began at the age of 26 and has spanned over three decades. Her extensive experience in embassies around the world highlights the importance of international collaboration in addressing global challenges. In Kazakhstan, her focus lies on developing educational programs, supporting Swedish businesses, promoting environmental initiatives, and enhancing cooperation in healthcare and sustainable urban development.

A key topic of discussion was the potential for educational partnerships between Kazakhstan and Sweden. To date, more than 130 Kazakhstani students have studied at Swedish universities through the Bolashak program, reflecting a strong interest in academic mobility. The dialogue identified several promising areas of cooperation, including joint research projects, knowledge exchange in innovation and entrepreneurship, and the establishment of robust academic ties.

The integration of English into the educational process was another focal point of the discussion, particularly in subjects such as biology, chemistry, physics, and ICT. Ambassador Polano highlighted the significance of this initiative for Kazakhstan’s integration into the global academic community, emphasizing the need for well-prepared educators to support these programs.

Broader topics such as the transition to the Latin alphabet, the role of education in promoting gender equality, and the support of youth initiatives were also discussed. Sweden’s experience in these areas offers valuable insights for AIU, as the university strives to create a modern educational environment that embraces best practices from around the world.

Economic development through the support of small and medium-sized enterprises emerged as another crucial theme. The guests underscored the importance of investing in engineering education, fostering innovation, and providing micro-financing opportunities to unlock the potential of young entrepreneurs in Kazakhstan.

One particularly inspiring part of the conversation centered around scientific achievements, with Alfred Nobel’s legacy serving as a symbol of Swedish entrepreneurship and innovation. The idea of nurturing Kazakhstani scientists who could one day achieve global recognition resonated strongly with everyone present.

Astana International University extends its sincere gratitude to Ambassador Polano and Ms. Söderblad for their visit, insightful dialogue, and openness to further collaboration. Encounters like these strengthen academic ties, open new doors for AIU’s students and faculty, and lay the groundwork for lasting international partnerships.

Starting from February 19, a French-speaking club dedicated to the oral development of the French language has begun its work at Astana International University. The club meetings take place every Wednesday at 18:30 with the participation of Mr. Colin, a representative of the French Embassy in Kazakhstan, and students of the specialty "Foreign Language: Two Foreign Languages" whose second language is French.

The club aims to create a linguistic environment where students can practice spoken French, enhance their language skills, and learn more about French culture. During the meetings, participants discuss current topics, engage in dialogues, and take part in interactive activities.

We invite all students interested in the French language and culture to join the French-speaking Club!

Social entrepreneurship plays a key role in the development of society by combining innovation, business approaches, and social responsibility. A significant step in this direction was the creation of an exclusive zone of Astana International University (AIU) within the Social Hub. This space will become the epicenter of joint projects, educational programs, and innovations aimed at preparing a new generation of social entrepreneurs.

According to Emin Askerov, the founder of Social Enterprise Hub, the partnership between the university and the Hub is not just about resource exchange but a powerful multiplier of social impact. AIU, as an intellectual leader, provides a scientific foundation and expertise, while the Hub serves as a testing ground for turning ideas into real projects. This integration allows students and entrepreneurs to work hand in hand, creating solutions that positively transform society.

AIU's support goes beyond traditional education—the university actively contributes to the development of the Hub, fostering an environment for experimentation, collaboration, and knowledge exchange. This approach not only educates students but also helps build an ecosystem where ideas evolve into real social projects. By bringing together аcademic community and practitioners, AIU and the Hub will serve as catalysts for positive change in Kazakhstan.

Today, on March 18, the International University of Astana (AIU) hosted a visit by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Latvia to Kazakhstan, Irina Mangule. The meeting was an important step in strengthening international cooperation, opening new opportunities for students and faculty members. Discussions focused on the development of academic mobility, exchange programs with Latvian universities, participation in international research grants and joint studies, as well as the organization of educational events involving experts from Latvia. The AIU administration expressed its interest in strengthening the partnership, including the resumption of negotiations with Alberta College (Riga), particularly in the field of student and faculty exchanges.

Currently, more than 100 Kazakhstani students are studying at Latvian universities, and research institutions of both countries are successfully implementing joint projects. Cooperation between universities continues to expand, creating new opportunities for Kazakhstani students and researchers.

After the main part of the visit, Irina Mangule met with AIU students specializing in Translation Studies and delivered a guest lecture. She shared valuable insights into the profession of a translator in diplomacy, emphasizing that language proficiency alone is not enough—deep understanding of history, culture, and law is also required. The discussion also covered the importance of argumentation and debate skills, which are crucial not only for translators but also for anyone pursuing a career in international affairs. The issue of gender balance in diplomacy was also raised: while the number of female diplomats has increased over the past 20 years, key positions are still largely dominated by men. The ambassador highlighted that success in the profession is determined not by gender but by knowledge, determination, and responsibility.

The lecture sparked great interest among students—they asked questions about international law, diplomatic careers, and legal practice abroad. The visit was informal and engaging—students were not just passive listeners but active participants in the discussion. For AIU, this was another opportunity to establish valuable connections with Latvian universities and open new paths for its students to study and exchange experiences. Perhaps this very meeting will inspire some of them to study in Latvia or pursue a career in international organizations.

📢 On March 17, Astana International University welcomed a distinguished guest – Unzila Shapak, a deputy of the Mazhilis of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The event was organized as part of the 30th anniversary of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan and attracted great interest among students. The lecture focused on parliamentary law and the functions of Parliament, evolving into a dynamic discussion on legislative processes, the development of parliamentarism, and the role of youth in politics.

🔹 How are laws created?
🔹 How does Parliament interact with government structures and society?
🔹 What challenges does the legislative power face in modern Kazakhstan?

Unzila Shapak provided in-depth answers to these and many other questions, sharing her personal experience in Parliament. Students actively engaged in the discussion, asking thought-provoking questions about law-making, human rights initiatives, and opportunities for young people to influence the country’s future.

📌 Key topics of the lecture:
✅ The basics of parliamentary law and its impact on the state
✅ Powers and functions of the Parliament of Kazakhstan
✅ The process of transforming an idea into a law
✅ The interaction between the legislative branch and civil society

✨ We sincerely thank Unzila Shapak for her insightful and engaging lecture!
Don’t miss such events – they not only provide valuable knowledge but also encourage us to think about how each of us can contribute to the development of our country. 🚀

As part of the events dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, an open lecture titled "Alash Lawyers" was held at Astana International University on March 17, 2025. The speaker of the event was a member of the Mazhilis of the Parliament of Kazakhstan and an honored lawyer of the country, Kuspan Abzal Temirgalievich. The lecture was attended by students of the "History" and "International Relations" programs, as well as university faculty members.

The speaker's presentation provided participants with a deeper understanding of the formation of the national legal system. Kuspan Abzal Temirgalievich spoke about the role of the lawyers of the Alash movement in shaping Kazakhstan's independence, their bold reforms, commitment to justice, and unwavering defense of national interests. He also discussed the development of parliamentarism, key legislative transformations, and contemporary challenges facing the system of governance.

The lecture sparked great interest among students. Future historians and international relations specialists actively asked questions about the influence of Alash lawyers on modern law, mechanisms for legislative reform, and the prospects for Kazakhstan's legal development. At the end of the event, AIU Vice President Kairat Amangeldinovich Abdrakhmanov expressed his gratitude to Kuspan Abzal Temirgalievich for his insightful and engaging lecture, emphasizing the importance of such meetings in helping young people develop a profound understanding of historical and legal processes that shape the country's development.

The event took place in a warm and educational atmosphere, allowing students to gain a fresh perspective on Kazakhstan's legal history. Astana International University expresses its gratitude to the speaker for his fascinating lecture and meaningful dialogue with students, as well as to all participants for their active involvement in discussing key aspects of history and law.

On March 17, a meeting took place at Astana International University between Jeffrey Whitney, General Director of InterRes Central Asia LLP, and AIU leadership. The discussion focused on prospects for collaboration in training students and faculty in English language skills using modern digital technologies.

Jeffrey Whitney presented an innovative teaching methodology based on the DynEd® system and the neo+™ platform, which is actively used in 14 countries, including Kazakhstan. This methodology integrates online learning, interactive small-group sessions, and an assessment system that determines language proficiency and certifies it with a CEFR certificate. Meeting participants also learned that the program offers flexible access via mobile devices and includes training for university faculty as coaches, enabling seamless integration into AIU’s educational process.

One of the key discussion points was the potential adaptation of the program for students with special educational needs, including those with hearing impairments. The company’s experts have developed a system that considers various ways of perceiving information, making the learning process as accessible and effective as possible for all student categories.

The meeting also explored the possibility of launching a pilot project at AIU, which would allow the university to test the program and evaluate its effectiveness in a real academic environment. AIU representatives expressed keen interest in the collaboration, highlighting that the integration of this methodology would help students enhance their English proficiency, improve their academic and professional language skills, and simplify the certification process.

As a result of the meeting, it was decided to work out the details of program implementation, including faculty training, class schedule development, and student certification requirements. Both parties agreed on the next steps for project execution and expressed hope for a productive and long-term partnership.

How will Kazakhstan and China develop their strategic partnership in the coming years? What new opportunities will emerge in economy, science, and education? These questions were at the core of the international round table “Spring in China: Prospects for the Development of Kazakhstan-China Relations,” which took place on March 14, 2025, in Astana.

Leading experts, diplomats, and business representatives gathered to discuss the current state and prospects of cooperation. The organizers of the event included Astana International University, China Media Corporation, the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Kazakhstan, the Branch Campus of Beijing Language and Culture University in Kazakhstan (BLCU Kazakhstan), and the Institute of the New Asia-Europe Land-Sea Transport Corridor.

Key Discussion Topics:

✅ Development of transport infrastructure and modernization of the Middle Corridor
✅ Implementation of LegalTech and digitization of the legal system
✅ Joint educational and scientific projects
✅ Innovations and technological cooperation between Kazakhstan and China

Speakers included Shen Haixiong, Director General of China Media Corporation; Han Chunlin, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of China to Kazakhstan; Abil Erkin Amanzholovich, Member of the Mazhilis of the Parliament of Kazakhstan; Wang Bin, Director of the Eurasian Bureau of China Media Corporation; and Serik Aztaevich Irsaliev, President of Astana International University.

Key Presentations:

📌 Innovation and technological cooperation are becoming a major area of bilateral interaction. Zholdykhan Sanat, Chairman of the Board of QazInnovations, presented an overview of promising startup projects and highlighted Kazakhstan’s high potential in high-tech industries.

📌 The current state and future prospects of Kazakhstan-China relations were analyzed by Manarbek Kabaziyev, Deputy Chairman of the Board of the Institute for Foreign Policy Studies under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan.

📌 Results of the Year of Kazakhstan’s Tourism in China were summarized by Shyryn Musina, Managing Director and Head of the Brand and Marketing Department of “Kazakh Tourism” National Company.

📌 The development of digital legal technologies (LegalTech) was the focus of the report by Indira Aubakirova, Doctor of Law and Director of the “Institute of Legislation and Legal Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan” under the Ministry of Justice.

📌 The Middle Corridor – a key element of Eurasian logistics. Meiram Kazhyken, Professor at the Higher School of Economics at Astana International University, emphasized that this route opens up new opportunities for international trade and investment.

📌 Aliya Musabekova, Senior Expert at the Department of Asian Studies at KISI, noted that the digital agenda in Kazakhstan-China relations is gaining increasing importance every year.

📌 Kalamkas Yesimova, Analyst-Methodologist at the “Public Opinion” Research Institute, emphasized the need for flexibility and adaptability in cultural and humanitarian cooperation.

Round Table Conclusions:

🔹 Participants emphasized that strengthening the strategic partnership between Kazakhstan and China will open new prospects in economy, education, and innovative technologies.
🔹 Concrete initiatives have been developed for transport infrastructure development, legal system digitization, and joint educational programs.
🔹 Work will continue on launching joint startup projects and research initiatives.

📢 The round table “Spring in China: Prospects for the Development of Kazakhstan-China Relations” has become a significant expert platform, outlining key areas of bilateral cooperation. Kazakhstan and China continue to strengthen their strategic partnership, expanding into new promising fields, including innovations, science, and digitalization.

On March 12, the Presidential Center of the Republic of Kazakhstan hosted the international conference "Water Resources Management: Risks, Resilience, and Innovations", dedicated to World Water Day. The event was organized by the Presidential Center of Kazakhstan and the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation. The conference brought together government and public figures, representatives of international organizations, leading scientists, and experts.

The conference was opened by the Director of the Presidential Center, Bakytzhan Temirbolat. The discussions addressed pressing issues such as water security, the impact of climate change, the need for international cooperation, and the implementation of innovative approaches in water resource management. Among the speakers were Members of Parliament, representatives of the Ministry of Ecology, the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea, scientists from Kazakhstan, Turkey, Uzbekistan, and international experts.

One of the key presentations was delivered by the Vice President of Astana International University. He focused on the challenges of water security in the transboundary river basins of Kazakhstan and Russia, including the Irtysh, Tobol, Ural, and Ishim rivers, which are critical for the region’s food and environmental stability. His presentation also highlighted the issue of the Caspian Sea's shrinking water levels, caused by changes in river flow and climate factors. According to the expert, the current system of water cooperation between Kazakhstan and Russia requires modernization and better coordination, especially in crisis prevention, such as the 2024 floods.

The conference was also attended by 3rd-year students of the "6B05101 Biology" program and a senior lecturer from the Higher School of Natural Sciences of our university. Their participation allowed them to deepen their understanding of pressing water resource issues, explore cutting-edge research in this field, and hear insights from leading experts.

Today, on March 12, an important meeting took place at Astana International University with representatives of the Embassy of the Kyrgyz Republic in the Republic of Kazakhstan. Participants of the discussion included:
✅ Dastan Dyushekeev – Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kyrgyz Republic to the Republic of Kazakhstan
✅ Ernist Abdirashitov – Third Secretary of the Embassy of the Kyrgyz Republic in the Republic of Kazakhstan

The meeting covered a wide range of topics related to educational cooperation, academic exchange, and support for Kyrgyz students in Kazakhstan.

🔹 Development of joint scientific research in the fields of innovation, digitalization, and sustainable development.
🔹 Creating conditions for internships, practical training, and employment opportunities for graduates.
🔹 Teaching the Kazakh language to Kyrgyz students and helping them adapt to the educational environment in Kazakhstan.
🔹 Prospects for establishing a Kyrgyz-Kazakh cooperation center at AIU.

📍 The meeting took place at a significant moment – a year after the unveiling of the monument to Aykol Manas, the hero of the Kyrgyz epic, in the presence of the heads of state. The monument is located in front of the main building of AIU, symbolizing strong brotherly relations between nations and the importance of active cooperation in the cultural and humanitarian spheres.

💬 AIU President Serik Irsaliev stated:
"This monument reminds us that we must not only preserve our shared history but also build our future together. As part of its internationalization strategy, AIU is committed to strengthening cooperation with Kyrgyz universities, attracting more students from Kyrgyzstan, and providing them with additional educational opportunities. A decision has already been made to allocate 5 grants for master’s programs and offer tuition benefits for undergraduate programs."

🤝 The discussion of current issues has paved the way for new initiatives in education and academic exchange.

Today, Astana International University hosted a meeting with representatives of the Bureau of National Statistics of the Agency for Strategic Planning and Reforms of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The discussion focused on key areas of cooperation, including opportunities for student internships and traineeships, as well as prospects for joint educational programs.

The following representatives from the Bureau attended the event:
• Arsen Abzalovich Zhakyupov – Director of the Department of Human Resource Development;
• Asel Jamalbekkyzy Kuzembay – Head of the Personnel Motivation and Development Division of the Department of Human Resource Development;
• Aigerim Zhanbolatovna Kisikova – Expert of the Personnel Motivation and Development Division of the Department of Human Resource Development.

One of the key topics discussed was the cooperation within the framework of a previously signed memorandum. AIU students will now have the opportunity to undertake internships at the Bureau, work with real data, and participate in analytical research projects.

Speakers also introduced the Data Literacy Hub, a global initiative developed in collaboration with international organizations. This platform offers free online education, allowing students to learn the basics of statistics and data analytics and then apply their knowledge in practice. The program is open to everyone, and participants who successfully pass the tests receive certificates. To date, more than 50,000 people have registered for the program.

Another topic of discussion was employment opportunities in the civil service. Bureau representatives emphasized that new admission mechanisms have been introduced for university graduates, including a system allowing candidates to be hired without competition if they meet the required scores. Additionally, AIU students may now participate as observers in selection processes, giving them firsthand insight into the recruitment system.

Special attention was given to the integration of international statistical practices in Kazakhstan. According to the speakers, the Bureau is actively adopting new approaches that align with global standards and is inviting students and researchers to take part in joint projects and academic publications.

AIU expresses gratitude to the guests and looks forward to fruitful collaboration!