At the Digital Almaty Forum, the President of Astana International University, Serik Irsaliyev, shared the role of the university in advancing new technologies and innovations, as well as AIU’s plans in the space sector and support for startups.
Serik Irsaliyev emphasized that AIU, one of the youngest universities in Kazakhstan, is celebrating its 7th anniversary this year. The university aims to remain open to innovation and support the initiatives of young people. One example of this approach is the university's business incubator, which has been operating for 4 years and helps startup founders develop their projects. AIU students and alumni actively participate in the KazInnovation grant competition, which confirms the high level of entrepreneurial activity at the university.
The President also highlighted the importance of creating an innovative and technological ecosystem at AIU, stating, "We don’t just educate; we aim to be a center for research and technological progress." In this regard, the university has partnered with leading companies like Altair Engineering, specializing in software development for the space industry.
Serik Irsaliyev shared AIU’s ambitious plans, including launching the first university satellite by the end of this year and creating a satellite constellation of 48 satellites by 2030, allowing round-the-clock monitoring of various Earth processes. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with other universities and the private sector for the successful implementation of these projects.
"Commercialization of knowledge and support for energetic young people ready to change the world is the solution when systems do not work perfectly," he remarked, highlighting the role of private investors and startups in technological development.
Additionally, the university actively supports master’s students with their own startup ideas, offering grants for tuition for those who can justify and develop their projects.
Astana International University continues to work for the benefit of students and society, providing unique opportunities for realizing the most ambitious ideas and projects.