The International Student Tourism School has concluded
its work within the walls of Astana International University (AIU). This
large-scale educational project, held from December 8 to 14, 2025, united
education, culture, and the professional development of youth.
The
organizers were the North Caucasus Federal University (NCFU) and Astana
International University, with the support of the Ministry of Science and
Higher Education of Russia, Rossotrudnichestvo, and the Youth and Student
Tourism Program ("Studtourism").
The key outcome of the week was a historic event — the
accession of Astana International University to the "Studtourism"
Program, which will allow the university to become the first higher education
institution in Kazakhstan within this ecosystem. This decision opens up the
international direction of the Program's development. Now, Kazakhstani students
will be able to fully participate in cultural and educational routes of
universities in Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Belarus, while foreign
students can discover Kazakhstan.
During
the week, participants worked in mixed Russian-Kazakhstani teams. The
educational intensive included lectures, master classes, and project sessions
dedicated to the development of tourism.
The result of this work was the presentation of unique
project solutions. Students developed concepts for inter-university routes,
initiatives for the development of ethno-tourism, and popular science
directions. The organizers are confident that these ideas will become the
foundation for real joint initiatives in the future.
The International School of Tourism became not only an
educational platform but also a space for deep cultural exchange. The
organizers prepared a rich field program that allowed guests to immerse
themselves in the local atmosphere of Kazakhstan.
Participants visited the pearl of Kazakhstan's nature
— the Burabay resort, where they were able to enjoy winter landscapes and get
acquainted with the national culture. The program also included a visit to the
main symbol of the capital — the "Bayterek" monument and the National
Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan. These trips helped the young people get
to know each other better in an informal setting and find inspiration for
creating tourism products attractive to youth.
The final event of the School was the solemn closing
ceremony. Participants were awarded certificates of participation, but the main
acquisition, according to the students themselves, was new knowledge,
professional contacts, and strong friendship. The International Student Tourism
School of 2025 proved: the youth of Kazakhstan and Russia is ready not just to
travel, but to professionally develop the tourism and hospitality industry
together.