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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.

Stage I of the Republican Subject Olympiad among students of the educational

programs 6B01701 / 6B01703 “Foreign Language: Two Foreign Languages” was held

at Astana International University. The event confirmed the high level of linguistic,

communicative, and project-based training of the participants.

All students demonstrated a high professional level, showcasing profound

knowledge, well-developed academic communication skills, critical thinking, and a

creative approach to completing tasks. Competitive assessments in various types of

speech activity and project defense enabled the jury to identify not only subject-specific

competence but also the ability to work in an academic competition setting, argue

positions effectively, and present the results of their work professionally.

The opening ceremony of the Olympiad was conducted by Amanzheldy Kazizov,

Senior Lecturer of the Pedagogical Institute. In his welcoming speech, he emphasized

the value of multilingual education, academic courage, and intercultural dialogue. As

part of the opening ceremony, participants received a motivational address highlighting

the role of language as a tool for communication, mutual understanding, and

professional growth:

Good morning, brilliant minds and beautiful voices of tomorrow!

Today, you’re not just here to compete, you’re here to connect.

Every language you speak is a bridge.

Your words matter. Your voice matters. And today, it begins to echo beyond these walls.

Good luck to each of you, and let the languages unite us!

Special gratitude is extended to the faculty members of the Department of

Foreign Philology for their high level of organizational and methodological support. The

following lecturers actively contributed to the Olympiad: Kazizov A., Imangaliyeva M.,

Rakhmatulina K., Kaliyeva A.K., Akhmedina B.K., Kapanova A. Their professionalism,

coordinated teamwork, and academic responsibility ensured objective assessment and

a high standard of organization throughout all stages of the Olympiad.

The Olympiad became a significant academic event contributing to the

development of professional competencies of future foreign language teachers,

strengthening academic culture, and promoting multilingual education. Considering the

high performance and positive feedback from participants, it has been decided to hold

the Olympiad annually. This will create a sustainable platform for identifying and

supporting talented students, exchanging pedagogical practices, and implementing

innovative approaches in language education.

The event confirmed the importance of such academic initiatives as an effective

tool for developing student potential, preparing competitive specialists, and

strengthening the status of the Olympiad within the system of republican educational

events.

On 13 February 2026, A.S. Irzhanov, Candidate of Legal Sciences and 

Research Fellow of the project “AP26100031 – International Mediation Hub as an 

Instrument for Peaceful Conflict Resolution and Nuclear Disarmament: Experience 

of Kazakhstan and Foreign Countries” at Astana International University, held a 

working meeting with Dauren Aben Abenuly, Deputy Director for Foreign Policy 

of the Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies under the President of the Republic 

of Kazakhstan.

During the meeting, the key provisions of the International Mediation Hub 

concept were presented and discussed as a multifunctional expert and practical 

platform aimed at facilitating peaceful dispute resolution, strengthening the culture 

of dialogue, and advancing preventive diplomacy mechanisms.

It was emphasized that the Hub could function not only as a venue for 

mediation, negotiations, and consultations, but also as a center for the preparation of 

analytical materials, methodological recommendations, and expert opinions on 

conflict resolution issues.

In addition, the parties considered prospects for cooperation in organizing joint 

events and preparing analytical as well as research and practice-oriented materials 

aimed at implementing the objectives of the scientific project.

Overall, the meeting contributed to expanding cooperation and enhancing 

opportunities for further joint research initiatives and events

On February 19, 2026, the faculty members of the Geography Educational Program

organized an online lecture for students and master’s degree students.

The guest speaker was Professor Zhumakadyr Zhekshenovich Karamoldaev from

Bishkek State University. The lecture was titled “Physical-Geographical Characteristics

of the Mountains of Central Asia.”

During the lecture, the professor presented a comprehensive physical-geographical

analysis of the mountain systems of Central Asia, highlighting the geomorphological

structure of the region, its climatic features, the hydrological conditions of river basins,

and the current seismological situation.

Special attention was given to the scientific contributions of prominent scholars V.B.

Sochava, A.G. Isachenko, and V.S. Preobrazhensky, who developed the concept of

considering nature as an integrated geographical complex.

The lecture also addressed hydrographic features, river flow regimes, groundwater

distribution, and the patterns of spring occurrence in the region.

The meeting was informative and academically enriching. Students and master’s

degree participants actively engaged in discussion, asked questions, and exchanged

scientific views. The online lecture once again emphasized the relevance of

contemporary research in physical geography and the importance of an integrated

approach to studying natural processes.

Astana International University takes an active part in promoting the ideology of law and order aimed at shaping legal culture and strengthening the principles of the rule of law.

On December 24, 2026, a meeting was held between students and Aizhan Kulbaeva, Chairperson of the Specialized Inter-district Criminal Court of Astana. The primary goal of the event was to promote the ideology of law and order, raise the level of students' legal awareness, and strengthen youth's trust in state institutions.

A.A. Kulbaeva is a highly qualified judge who, during the trial of a high-profile criminal case, demonstrated in practice that justice in Kazakhstan is administered publicly, without "double standards," and in accordance with the principles of the rule of law and equality of all before the law.

The meeting took place in an open dialogue format, during which students received comprehensive answers to a wide range of questions, including the issues of "dropping" and drug couriering, network ethics, protection of personal space, as well as the legal consequences of stalking.

Before the official part of the event, the guest of honor visited the university museum, workshops, and laboratories, and observed the operations of the specialized mock courtroom designed for training future lawyers.

On February 19, 2026, the Department of Natural Sciences held a meeting of the

Academic Committee dedicated to the development and discussion of the educational

programs “5B01503 – Chemistry” and “7M01503 – Chemistry” for the 2026–2027

academic year.

During the meeting, the structure and content of the programs, expected learning

outcomes, the system of professional competencies, the relevance of curriculum

disciplines, and their logical continuity were comprehensively reviewed. Particular

attention was paid to aligning the programs with labor market requirements, modern

educational trends, and industry standards.

The meeting was attended by the faculty members of the department as well as

experienced school teachers from Astana:

 Chemistry teacher of School-Lyceum No. 93, Gulmira Nurgazyevna Ospanova;

 Chemistry teacher of School-Lyceum No. 56, Saule Dalelovna Elekenova;

 Chemistry teacher of School-Gymnasium No. 78 named after Smagul

Saduakasuly, Gulzhazira Zhaiykovna Mukhamedieva;

 Chemistry teacher of Economic Lyceum, Aigul Abdisamatovna Taukelova.

Stakeholders’, employers’, and leading experts’ recommendations were taken into

account, resulting in specific proposals for further improvement of the educational

programs.

Following the meeting, a decision was made to modernize the programs, update course

content in accordance with contemporary requirements — including the integration of

artificial intelligence technologies into the educational process — and approve them in

accordance with established procedures.

Astana International University hosted a meeting with faculty and students to discuss the upcoming referendum on the adoption of the country’s new Constitution.

Students were informed that the constitutional reform, initiated by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, is based on the transition to a unicameral Parliament. The goal is a comprehensive modernization of the political system and the advancement of Kazakhstan's socio-economic development in the era of Artificial Intelligence.

The meeting highlighted that months of intensive public debate took place, during which a Working Group processed over 2,000 proposals from citizens and experts. Consequently, at the V session of the National Kurultai in January 2026, the Head of State summarized these suggestions and presented the general concept of the upcoming changes.

The academic community expressed strong support for Paragraph 2 of Article 3 of the new Constitution, which identifies the development of human capital, education, science, and innovation as a strategic state priority. Scholars emphasize that an educated nation is the foundation for economic growth and social justice. The implementation of these strategic goals lies with the youth, who are eager to make their civic choice

For the first time, a large-scale event dedicated to the Chinese New Year was held within the walls of the branch of Beijing Language and Culture University  (BLCU Kazakhstan). On February 18, the branch became a celebration venue for all Sinologists in Astana, bringing together students, faculty members, and distinguished guests.

The event took place in a warm and ceremonial atmosphere. The Vice President of Astana International University, Kairat Amangeldinovich Abdrakhmanov, took part in the celebration. Participants included students of Astana International University enrolled in the double-degree program in Economics and Business in cooperation with UIBE, students of BLCU Kazakhstan, representatives of the NU Chinese Club, as well as guests from Karaganda — representatives of the E. A. Buketov Karaganda National Research University and the L. N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University.

As part of the program, participants were introduced to the significance of Chun Jie — the Spring Festival, which is the most important traditional holiday in China and symbolizes renewal, family unity, and the beginning of a new year. Familiarization with Chinese New Year traditions allowed guests to gain a deeper understanding of the cultural values of the Chinese people.

A special place in the program was dedicated to the theme of friendship between Kazakhstan and China. As a sign of respect for Chinese guests, Kazakh national performances were presented. The NU Orchestra performed on stage, while students of the BLCU Kazakhstan double-degree program presented a “Dance of Friendship of Two Peoples,” combining elements of Kazakh and Chinese cultures.

The celebration of the Chinese New Year at BLCU Kazakhstan became a significant cultural event, highlighting the strong ties between Kazakhstan and China, as well as the important role of educational and youth initiatives in strengthening mutual respect and cooperation between the two countries.

On 13 February 2026, A.S. Irzhanov, Candidate of Legal Sciences and

Research Fellow of the project “AP26100031 – International Mediation Hub as an

Instrument for Peaceful Conflict Resolution and Nuclear Disarmament: Experience

of Kazakhstan and Foreign Countries” at Astana International University, held a

working meeting with practicing mediators of “Tatulasu Ortalygy” (Reconciliation

Center).

During the meeting, a substantive exchange of views took place on current

issues related to the development of international mediation. Particular attention was

given to the regulatory framework governing international mediation in the

legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan, as well as to the analysis of national law

enforcement practice.

The participants discussed existing gaps and inconsistencies in legal regulation,

issues concerning the improvement of mediation activities, and the prospects for

incorporating advanced international best practices. In addition, the mediators

presented specific proposals aimed at improving the legislation of the Republic of

Kazakhstan in the field of mediation and strengthening measures to promote

mediation as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism.

Overall, the meeting was constructive and contributed to strengthening

professional cooperation between the academic community and practicing

specialists.

As part of the implementation of the “Law and Order” principle, a lecture was held at the

University on the topic:

“The Right to Personal Freedom: Legal Framework and Liability for Violence, Stalking,

and Forced Marriage.”

The speaker was Kurbanbayev Bauyrzhan Mukhamedkanovich, Candidate of Legal

Sciences, Associate Professor of the Higher School of Law.

During the lecture, constitutional guarantees of the right to personal freedom were

discussed, along with issues of criminal and administrative liability for violence, stalking, and

forced marriage. Particular attention was given to modern legal protection mechanisms, law

enforcement practice, and recent legislative developments.

The event generated strong interest among students and faculty members and contributed

to raising legal awareness and promoting zero tolerance for all forms of violence and human

rights violations.

On 2026, 17th february in Аstana International University (AIU) recently hosted a significant meeting for students and faculty members to discuss the draft of the New Constitution. The event was held in an open dialogue format, featuring the University Rector, prominent public figures, and representatives of the nationwide movement. Among the distinguished guests were Pavel Kazantsev, Deputy of the Mazhilis of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan; Sanira Oryntaikyzy, Chairperson of the Esil district branch of the Nationwide Coalition "For the People's Constitution!" in Astana; Gabit Tazhimuratov, Deputy of the City Maslikhat; as well as coalition staff representatives Sunkar Khangeldina and Aigerim Serikzhanova, and popular influencer Asem Nurseiitova.

Opening the session, the Rector emphasized that these reforms hold strategic importance for both students and educators. He noted that the university community must not remain on the sidelines of the country’s political changes but instead show active civic engagement. During the discussion, representatives of the Nationwide Coalition explained the key innovations of the Constitution in plain language. Special focus was given to the state’s new social commitments, particularly the expansion of guarantees for free education and healthcare, which represent a major step forward for every family.

The participants also discussed the importance of elevating personal data protection to a constitutional level, describing it as a vital move in the digital age. Speakers highlighted that while fundamental freedoms remain preserved, they are being modernized to meet contemporary standards, ensuring that citizens' private information is strictly protected by law. By the end of the meeting, the students and participants showed great interest in the proposed reforms. Expressing their active civic stance and commitment to the country's future, the youth and faculty confirmed their intention to participate in the upcoming national referendum on March 15 to cast their votes.