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From March to May 2025, Gulnara Lesbayeva and Gulnara Baibash, heads of the Green Economy School at the Higher School of Economics, successfully completed a professional development program focused on the formation of a green economy, sustainable development, and climate transformation.

The course covered a wide range of topics reflecting current challenges and priorities in the transition to sustainable development, including: the future of education and employment in the era of artificial intelligence; the history of the UN climate regime and the new climate economy; anti-corruption culture and the legal foundations of green transformation; the role of the energy sector and ecological tourism in socio-economic development; fostering environmental culture, emotional intelligence, and empathy; national legislation on the green economy and international best practices.

A special highlight of the program was the lectures and seminars by Mr. Rae Kwon Chung, Nobel Peace Prize laureate and international expert, who presented the concept of a new climate paradigm, strategies for achieving carbon neutrality, and the idea of L.O.V. (Locally Owned Voluntary contributions) to a sustainable future.

Upon completion of the training, participants completed individual assignments and took part in a final discussion. Participation in this course represents a significant step in enhancing professional expertise and contributes to strengthening the scientific and educational potential of the Higher School of Economics in the field of green economy and sustainable development.

Guest lecture at AIU

On June 2, our university was visited by a special guest — Joel Adamson (Zholtai), an entrepreneur, investor, and environmental engineer with international experience! 🇺🇸🤝🇰🇿 

He shared:

, Insights on sustainable development

🌱 Work experience in the oil industry

The importance of Kazakh culture in global business

And most importantly, he inspired our students to be active and responsible for the future!

Joel is the president of Investsheshim and a popular blogger on Instagram (@joel.investkaz), actively promotes Kazakhstan on the world stage

It is worth noting that the guest lecture was held in Kazakh, Mr. Adamson is fluent in Kazakh and shared his secrets of learning foreign languages. 

Thank you for your visit and motivation! We look forward to new meetings and projects

#AIU #JoelAdamson #Guest Collection

On June 2, Kajaani University of Applied Sciences (KAMK) from Finland paid an official visit to Astana International University (AIU). This meeting marked a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties and opened new opportunities for academic and research collaboration.

During the visit, both institutions discussed promising areas of cooperation, focusing on Information Technology, Business and Economics, Tourism, and Environmental Studies. Special attention was given to launching joint undergraduate and graduate programs, developing academic mobility, and implementing internships, exchanges, and joint practical initiatives.

AIU presented its achievements in the fields of internationalization, global university rankings, and extensive partnerships with universities across Europe, Asia, and the United States. KAMK representatives expressed their readiness to engage in practice-oriented formats of cooperation, including joint modules, project-based learning, and online programs.

Kajaani University of Applied Sciences (KAMK) is a renowned applied sciences university located in central Finland. Founded in 1992, KAMK is recognized nationally and regionally for its innovative approach to education. Today, it serves approximately 3,300 students, with more than 5,500 alumni.

KAMK offers:

• 10 bachelor’s degree programs in Finnish and 4 in English;

• 7 master’s degree programs in Finnish and 2 in English.

KAMK consistently ranks at the top for the quality of teaching and student support services in Finland. The Finnish Education Evaluation Centre (FINEEC) awarded KAMK a Quality Label, valid through spring 2027.

According to its KAMK’30 strategy, the university aims to be an attractive, safe, and healthy learning community; to provide outcome-driven education that meets societal needs; and to serve as a trusted national and international partner in key academic fields.

At the conclusion of the meeting, both parties agreed to prepare a Memorandum of Understanding, covering the following key areas:

• Development of joint academic programs;

• Exchange of students, faculty, and researchers;

• Joint scientific events and exchange of publications;

• Professional development and training programs.

Both AIU and KAMK expressed confidence that this partnership will serve as a practical platform for sharing knowledge, perspectives, and innovative educational approaches, contributing to the training of highly skilled professionals for the sustainable future of both countries.

Astana International University (AIU) had the honor of welcoming His Royal Majesty Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi — the Ooni of Ife and spiritual leader of the Yoruba people, the largest ethnic group in Nigeria with a population of around 40 million.

The visit took place as part of the monarch’s participation in the Astana International Forum, where he served as a speaker in a special session titled "Kazakhstan–Africa: Opening New Horizons of Cooperation", held for the first time in the forum’s history.

During the official meeting at AIU, His Majesty highlighted that Nigeria is currently the most populous country in Africa, with a population exceeding 235 million. With a median age of just 18.1 years, Nigeria is also one of the youngest nations in the world. This demographic feature creates a pressing need for large-scale solutions in the field of education. The Nigerian government is actively seeking international partners interested in providing educational opportunities for its youth. Key priorities include the development of academic mobility programs, the implementation of dual-degree initiatives, and the expansion of language education. In this context, the visit of His Majesty marked an important step toward discussing practical mechanisms of cooperation and potential agreements between Astana International University and Nigerian institutions.

During the meeting, the President of AIU presented the university’s history, provided detailed information about the faculty, international programs, and academic achievements. Special emphasis was placed on internationalization and multilingual education. According to the Rector, international students at AIU have access to instruction in Kazakh, English, Russian, and Chinese — both through traditional formats and modern digital tools.

AIU currently brings together students from 12 countries, and the agreement with Nigerian representatives will become the first step for Nigerian students to join the university’s global academic community.

"We sincerely believe that education is a bridge between cultures and continents. The visit of such a distinguished leader as His Royal Majesty Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi is a symbol of mutual respect and the beginning of a new partnership in the field of higher education," noted the Rector of Astana International University.

Astana International University continues to expand its international cooperation. On May 6, 2025, representatives of the Embassy of Spain to the Republic of Kazakhstan visited AIU on a working visit: Deputy Head of Mission Beatriz Muñoz González, Advisor José Aurelio Llaneza, and Assistant Albert Vitriá.

During the meeting, the parties discussed prospects for academic partnership between AIU and Spanish universities. Beatriz Muñoz noted the growing interest of the Spanish side in collaborating with Kazakhstani higher education institutions and emphasized that AIU has all the prerequisites for the successful development of Spanish-language academic programs.

Embassy Advisor José Aurelio Llaneza expressed his readiness to support AIU’s initiatives in establishing partnerships with Spanish universities. He outlined opportunities for cooperation through educational platforms and encouraged the university to submit specific proposals on areas of collaboration — which would help identify the most relevant partner institutions in Spain.

The discussion covered a wide range of topics — from student and faculty exchanges to joint research projects in fields such as ecology, international relations, IT, design, pedagogy, and inclusive education. The possibility of participating in European research grants, including Horizon Europe, was also mentioned.

The guests emphasized the importance of the Spanish language worldwide and its growing popularity among young people. They expressed confidence that cooperation with AIU can become a vivid example of productive dialogue between our countries.

AIU sincerely thanks the Spanish Embassy for the visit and expressed interest, looking forward to new opportunities in international collaboration with great enthusiasm.

On April 24, 2025, Astana International University hosted a meeting with a delegation from the Institute of Russia, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS). The event was held in the format of an academic dialogue focused on developing cooperation in science and education.

The AIU side was represented by Vice President Kairat Abdrakhmanov, Doctor of Economic Sciences and Professor Meiram Qazhykен, Director of the Kazakhstan Branch of the Research Institute of the New Asia-Europe Land-Sea Corridor Nurali Irsaliev, and researcher Berik Tabynbayev.

The Chinese delegation included Deputy Director of the Institute Jin Zhe, Head of the Department for Multilateral and Regional Cooperation Li Yunhui, Deputy Head of the Department of the Russian Economy Gao Zixiang, and senior researchers Jiang Jin and Zhao Yumin.

The discussion centered around joint research, academic exchanges, and potential collaborative projects. Topics included the development of international transport routes such as the Belt and Road Initiative and the Trans-Caspian corridor, digitalization, cultural and humanitarian cooperation, and partnerships within organizations such as the SCO, CICA, and BRICS.

Special attention was paid to the strategic role of Central Asia. As one participant noted, “Central Asia is at the crossroads of roads — and that brings great responsibility.” The importance of gradual, trust-based cooperation was also emphasized: “Small steps toward each other mark the beginning of a long journey.”

Culture and education were highlighted as key foundations for sustainable partnership and long-term dialogue.

AIU sees such meetings as valuable opportunities to exchange ideas, build new connections, and launch joint initiatives in science and education.

On April 20, 2025, in celebration of the International Chinese Language Day, a large-scale seminar on enhancing the teaching competencies of Chinese language teachers in Central Asia was held in Astana. The initiative came from the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Kazakhstan, and the event was organized by the Kazakhstan branch campus of Beijing Language and Culture University (BLCU).

At the opening ceremony, speeches were delivered by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the PRC to Kazakhstan, Han Chunlin; the President of Astana International University, Serik Aztaevich Irsaliyev; and the renowned sinologist, Professor Klara Shaissultanovna Khafizova from L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University. The Rector of BLCU, Duan Peng, addressed the participants via a video message.

Ambassador Han Chunlin quoted the Kazakh proverb, “Language is the key to the soul,” emphasizing that the Chinese language carries the wisdom of a millennia-old civilization. He highlighted the uniqueness of Chinese characters, referencing symbols like ren (benevolence) and dao (way), the achievements of Chinese science and culture, and described the development of Chinese language teaching in Kazakhstan as a “golden opportunity.”

Serik Aztaevich Irsaliyev, President of Astana International University, emphasized the importance of the seminar as a platform for experience exchange, professional community building, and expanding cooperation between educational institutions of both countries.

In his video address, BLCU Rector Duan Peng called the Kazakhstan branch campus a “jewel of humanitarian exchange” between China and Kazakhstan, carrying a special mission since its foundation. He expressed hope that the seminar would become a pivotal point in the development of the Chinese language in the region.

Professor Klara Khafizova, in her speech, explored the expressiveness of Chinese characters, the importance of tones, and the connection of the Chinese language to the ethnocultural history of the region's peoples.

Experts from BLCU, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Nazarbayev University, and other institutions delivered presentations. Nearly 100 participants from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and China actively engaged in discussions.

Participants — experts and educators — unanimously recognized the event's success: new knowledge was gained, experiences exchanged, pressing issues discussed, and understanding of Chinese language teaching in Kazakhstan deepened. Topics included the future of Chinese amid global changes, the role of international standards in teaching characters, the effectiveness of the “less theory — more practice” approach, methods and theories of using Deepseek in international Chinese teaching, and new attempts to create culturally rich textbooks for beginner learners. Even after the seminar ended, discussions continued, with participants actively sharing ideas and expressing their readiness to contribute to the strengthening and development of Chinese language education in Kazakhstan.

From April 4 to 5, 2025, AIU took part in the WORLD EDU 2025 International Education Fair, held at the SOF EXPO exhibition center in Samarkand. As one of the largest educational events in the region, the fair brought together over 70 leading universities and educational institutions from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Turkey, China, Russia, Belarus, Europe, and Southeast Asia. Thousands of prospective students, their parents, and education professionals attended the event.

AIU, along with our partners – Beijing Language and Culture University (BLCU) and the University of International Business and Economics (UIBE) – presented their academic programs, admission procedures, opportunities for academic mobility, and features of student life. Visitors showed great interest in our bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs, as well as available scholarship options.

On the second day, AIU was featured on the main stage of the exhibition. Our representatives spoke about the university's strengths, answered questions from the audience, and handed out souvenirs to participants.

In addition to working with prospective students, the AIU team held several meetings with other universities, discussing potential collaborations and student exchange opportunities. We believe these new connections will lead to strengthened partnerships and the launch of joint educational initiatives.

Participating in WORLD EDU 2025 was an important step in promoting AIU on the international stage and highlighted the growing interest in quality education and academic mobility among students.

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.

Today, on April 8, a meeting took place at Astana International University between the university leadership and Ms. Yoko Sekiguchi, Second Secretary of the Embassy of Japan in the Republic of Kazakhstan, representing the department of culture, education, information, and consular affairs.

During the meeting, concrete directions for cooperation were discussed. Ms. Sekiguchi expressed her willingness to support the establishment of partnerships between Japanese and Kazakhstani universities, particularly in the areas of international relations, Japanese language teaching, exchange programs, and academic research.

🔹 The discussion touched on possible collaboration between Japanese universities and AIU.
🔹 Special attention was given to student exchange programs, joint educational projects, and faculty internships.
🔹 Ms. Sekiguchi noted Japanese students’ growing interest in learning the Russian language and considered AIU as a potential alternative to Russian universities.
🔹 Prospects for organizing events dedicated to Japanese culture and expanding academic connections were also reviewed.

AIU expressed its interest in establishing direct ties with leading universities in Japan, including an initiative to invite Japanese professors and researchers for lectures and workshops.

🤝 It is essential for students to gain more international experience, and we are glad that such meetings help make it possible.

On March 5, 2025, the Hungarian Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Mr. Otto Ivan Rona, visited the university. During the visit, he met with the university administration and students to talk about the Stipendium Hungaricum program, a scholarship initiative for Kazakhstani students that provides an opportunity to study at leading universities in Hungary.

The Stipendium Hungaricum program is a scholarship initiative that provides students from different countries, including Kazakhstan, with a chance to study at leading universities in Hungary. The program's grants cover tuition, living expenses, and also include medical insurance. The program covers bachelor's, master's and PhD programs, which opens up broad prospects for students who want to receive a high-quality education in Europe.

The Ambassador stressed the importance of educational ties between Hungary and Kazakhstan, noting that participation in the Stipendium Hungaricum helps strengthen bilateral relations. Mr. Rona also spoke about Hungary's foreign policy, focusing on the development of cooperation with Kazakhstan in various fields, including education, economy and culture.

The students showed great interest in the program, asking questions about the application process, the conditions of study and life in Hungary. In response, the Ambassador provided detailed explanations, providing useful information for those who wish to participate in the program.

Astana International University thanks Mr. Otto Ivan Ron for his visit and looks forward to further developing cooperation with Hungary in the field of education. For more information, students can contact the University's Department of International Cooperation.

Students of the Pedagogical Institute of Astana International University, enrolled in the educational program "6B01503-Chemistry," achieved significant success at the III International Chemistry Olympiad among university students, demonstrating a high level of professional training and commitment to achieving their goals.

As a result of their participation in the III International Chemistry Olympiad among university students, the team won three medals, showcasing exceptional skills and professional competence. Furthermore, our students were the only participants additionally awarded prizes for their active involvement in all three sections of the International Scientific and Practical Conference organized as part of the Olympiad.

We are particularly proud of the fact that our team was the only pedagogical team to compete on equal terms with representatives of scientific chemistry and the only representative from Kazakhstan among participants from 13 countries worldwide.

We express our gratitude to the team leader, Damen Aukyovna Nurgaliyeva, for supporting the students, as well as to the participants themselves: Nurlan Muradovich Kairova, a 4th-year student; Қали Асанәлі Манарбекұлы, a 1st-year student; Aslanbek Altynbekuly Akramov, a 1st-year student; and Amadey Vladimirovich Moiseenko, a 2nd-year student, for their hard work, perseverance, and honorable representation of the university on the international stage. Congratulations on your victory, successful performance, and best wishes for future achievements and new triumphs!