A significant strategic workshop titled
"Development of Dual Degree Programs" (DDP) has commenced at Astana
International University, involving the university’s leadership and academic
staff. The first day of the event was dedicated to transforming educational
programs within the university structure, aligning approaches, and establishing
new regulations in accordance with international standards. Participants
include the Rector, Vice-Rectors, leadership of the Pedagogical Institute and
Higher Schools, as well as heads of educational programs.
In the opening remarks, the Rector emphasized the
strategic importance of dual degree education in today’s global educational
landscape. The primary focus of the discussion is the development of programs
based not only on the university's internal capabilities but also on the actual
demands of the labor market and stakeholders. This move demonstrates the
university’s definitive shift from the logic of "what we can teach"
to the vector of "what the market requires."
The first day's agenda included establishing a unified
understanding of the DDP system and clarifying terminology. Participants
analyzed international educational models and explored effective ways to
implement programs. During group sessions, the values and priorities of this
system for the university, students, and faculty were identified. Furthermore,
the process of mapping stakeholder needs was carried out, and criteria for
selecting international partner universities were defined.
A significant portion of the workshop was devoted to
analyzing the regulatory and institutional framework of dual degree education
in Kazakhstan. Participants discussed key barriers and challenges within the
current legislation and proposed mechanisms to address them. Following the
session, specific amendments were made to the draft "Regulation on
DDP," and an algorithm for further program development was approved. This
initiative marks a firm step for Astana International University toward
strengthening its position in the global educational arena and increasing the
competitiveness of its graduates.