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On 24-25 November 2025, representatives of Astana International University took part in the international scientific conference “Women’s Perspectives on the SCO: A New Vision of Global Governance”, alongside sixty women experts and scholars from Belarus, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Russia, and China. The event was included in the official list of outcomes of China’s chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) for 2024–2025 and was also incorporated into the program of the 19th Academic Month of Shanghai Scientific Societies.

Within the framework of the conference, women scholars, women politicians, and women civil servants from SCO member states engaged in Eurasian studies discussed a wide range of issues, including:

• new opportunities and challenges of global governance within the SCO framework;
• dialogue of civilizations and humanitarian exchanges;
• international communication and regional identity;
• the business environment and trade and economic cooperation within the SCO.

In addition, from 28 to 30 November, major international conferences were held at the Shanghai International Studies University (SISU), bringing together two significant symposia: the 5th Forum on Interdisciplinary Studies of Russia, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia, and the 11th Symposium on the Diversity of Values along the Great Silk Road in the fields of language, culture, and education.

The conferences were attended by representatives of Astana International University, as well as more than 200 scholars, lecturers, researchers, and experts from various countries, including China, Russia, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Serbia, and others. Among the participants were representatives of leading universities, research institutes, and diplomatic institution

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.

From November 10th to 30th, the "Three Weeks of Science" series of events took place at Astana International University's School of Natural Sciences. As part of the program, first-year students from the Recreational Geography and Tourism, Geoinformatics, and Water Resources and Hydrology programs participated in an Instagram video contest.The winners and runners-up were awarded diplomas and certificates.

The organizers expressed their gratitude to all participants for their enthusiasm, initiative, and creativity.

 Recreational Geography and Tourism (Russian group)

1st place  Akimzhanov Kerei, Karatai Abdussalyam, Akhmadiev Alibek, Volobaev Aleksandr – “My Favorite Vacation Spot”
2nd place  Galiulina Yasmin, Amantaeva Sayana, Zhumabek Adelia, Makhsut Sulukhan – “Weekend Route”
3rd place  Turdaly Alizhan and team (7 people) – “Weekend Route”
3rd place  Zholdasbekova Amina, Aznabaeva Dilnaz, Azhbinbetova Samira – “Tourism and Ecology”
Certificates for active participation: Sharipova Dariya and 4 more students
Supervisor: Zhanabaeva S.A.

 Recreational Geography and Tourism (Kazakh group)

1st place Serik Aizada – “Tourism and Ecology”
2nd place Aitmakhambet Zhanerke, Amanbekova Tolganay – “My Homeland, My Pride – Akshaulim!”
3rd place  Kuanysh Aruzhan – “Tourism and Ecology”
3rd place  Nurdinova Meruert and team (4 people) – “The Role of Tourism in Ecology”
Certificates: Shaidullin Nurislam and 15 more students – “Protecting the Environment Is in Our Hands”
Supervisor: Amantay A.A.

 Water Resources and Hydrology

1st place  Mugaiyp Aruzhan, Ryspai Elmira, Toktaubaykyzy Zhibek, Sansyzbayev Adilet – “Water – The Source of Life”
2nd place  Espayev Dias, Zharken Amir, Boranbay Karina – “Water Issues”
3rd place Abdrakhym Aidar – “The River Near Us”
Supervisor: Avezova A.A.

 Geoinformatics

1st place  Klyshbekov Galymzhan – “GIS: Simply About the Complex”
2nd place  Zhanat Bakytzhan – “Geoinformatics and the City”
Supervisors: Zhanabaeva S.A., Smailov A.A., Aikeshev B.M.

You guys are amazing! 🔥 Your works were creative, professional, and truly inspiring! Thank you to everyone who participated — you made these three weeks of science truly bright! 🌟

On December 11, 2025, a meeting between first-year students of the Geoinformatics program and representatives of GeoMaster was held at the Astana International University School of Natural Sciences.

During the event, the company's specialists presented modern surveying equipment that combines GNSS and lidar scanning technologies, enabling the acquisition of point clouds at a range of up to 70 meters with a 120° field of view, as well as the creation of highly accurate 3D terrain models.

The students expressed active interest in the practical application of the presented technologies, discussed the prospects for the development of the geoinformatics profession, and asked questions regarding specialization and career opportunities in the industry.

The meeting was organized by A.A. Smailov, a lecturer at the School of Natural Sciences.

From December 3 to 5, 2025, Asylkhan Irzhanov, PhD in Law and research fellow for the project "AP26100031 – International Mediation Hub as a Tool for Peaceful Conflict Resolution and Nuclear Disarmament: Experience of Kazakhstan and Foreign Countries" at Astana International University, was on a working trip to Almaty.

During his visit to the Faculty of Law of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, he met with the Dean of the Faculty, Candidate of Law, Professor Ulan Akhatov, faculty, and students.

The parties discussed the development of international mediation, its role in conflict prevention and resolution, and the application of mediation mechanisms in various countries. Special attention was paid to improving Kazakhstan's legislation in the field of mediation and implementing international approaches.

Following the visit, the parties expressed interest in further cooperation and joint research projects. The mission was an important step in strengthening professional ties and expanding scientific cooperation in the field of peaceful dispute resolution.

29 қараша мен 4 желтоқсан 2025 аралығында ЖТН AP29194469 «Мүгедектігі бар адамдарды еңбек нарығына интеграциялау: еңбек бейімделуінің кешенді моделін әзірлеу» ғылыми жобасы шеңберінде шетелдік тәжірибені зерделеу мақсатында Әзербайжан Республикасына іс-сапар жүзеге асырылды. Іс-сапар барысында ғылыми қызметкерлер Окутаева С.Т. және Аскеров Э.Х. Әзербайжанда кәсіпкерлікті дамытуға жауапты мемлекеттік ұйым - KOBIA-да бірқатар кездесулер өткізді. Аталған ұйымның басшысы - Орхан Нейматрагим оғлы Мамедов. Сонымен қатар ғылыми жобаның орындаушылары инклюзивті еңбек тәжірибесімен танымал «Kashalata» кафесіне барып, онда менталдық ерекшеліктері бар жастардың жұмыспен қамтылуымен танысты. Кафе негізін қалаушысы біздің қызметкерлерге сұхбат беріп, мүгедектігі бар адамдармен жұмыс жүргізудегі тәжірибесімен және еңбек бейімделуінің негізгі қиындықтары мен ерекшеліктерімен бөлісті.

Баку қаласында мүгедектігі бар әйелдерді жұмыспен қамтатын кейтеринг компаниясының негізін қалаушы Сара Раджабли ханымнан да сұхбат алынды. Іс-сапар барысында зерттеушілер тобы «Independent Living Center for People with Disabilities» ұйымының басшысы Айдын Халилов мырзамен де кездесті.

Әзербайжанның тәжірибесі Қазақстанда мүгедектігі бар адамдардың еңбек бейімделу бағдарламасын әзірлеу үшін аса құнды және практикалық тұрғыдан маңызды.

On December 4, 2025, the awards ceremony for the winners of the creative competition "Art as a Reflection of the Inner World," organized by the University's Psychology Service, took place. The goal of the event was to help students gain a deeper understanding of their own emotional state through art and create conditions for the development of their creative abilities.

Over 40 applications were submitted. Following the preliminary selection, 16 works were selected for the open voting stage. Each creative work represented a reflection of the author's personal emotional experience, inner world, and psychological state. Based on the results of the open vote, the prizes were distributed as follows:

• Aldiyar Chayakhmetov, Foreign Languages: Two Languages, Technical and Vocational Education, "Open My Book," 4th place diploma

• Ayaulym Erdaulet, Management, "Tenderness in Every Leaf," 3rd place diploma

• Viktoria Kakunina, Management, "Trace of a Dream," 3rd place diploma

• Sayazhan Askarova, Psychology, "Struggle," 3rd place diploma

• Ayazhan Zhaksylyk and Aruzhan Dyusembaeva, UHTiIZO-23A, "In the Garden of Love," 2nd place diploma

• Myrzakyz Kasymova, UHTiIZO-24B, "The Inner World of Man," 1st place diploma

          Awards were presented to the winners and participants by K. Abdrakhmanov, Vice President of the University for International Relations and Student Affairs. The event became a significant platform for unlocking student potential, promoting self-knowledge, and supporting cultural and spiritual values ​​within the university environment.

The School of Arts and Humanities of Astana International University, under the Psychology program, organized the Republican Contest «Best Social-Psychological Project - 2025» A total of 25 teams from the following universities participated:

1.     Astana International University

2.     L. N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University

3.     A. K. Kusainov Eurasian Humanitarian Institute

4.     Astana Medical University

5.     Arkalyk Pedagogical Institute named after Y. Altynsarin

6.     Turan University Astana

7.     S. M. Toraygirov Pavlodar State University

8.     NARXOZ University

9.     Shymkent University

10. “Bolashak” University, Kyzylorda

11. Kh. Dosmukhamedov Atyrau University

12. E. A. Buketov Karaganda State University

13. International Kazakh-Turkish University named after Khoja Ahmed Yassawi

14. South Kazakhstan Pedagogical University named after O. J. Zhanibek

Results of the offline format of the contest:

Diploma of I degree – Astana Medical University

Diplomas of II degree 

·         Astana International University - project “Women’s burdens in society”

·         L. N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University - project “Mindful student”

Diplomas of III degree 

·         L. N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University

·         A. K. Kusainov Eurasian Humanitarian Institute

·         Arkalyk Pedagogical Institute named after Y. Altynsarin

Special awards / Nominations:

·         “Contribution to the development of psychological culture” — Astana International University, team “Қолдау”, project “Professional psychologist vs pseudo-psychologist brand”

·         “Youth Initiative – 2025” — team “PSY4U”, project “Prevention of school bullying and creation of a safe environment”

·         “Most creative project” — Astana Medical University

·         “Psychological health and resilience” — Turan University (Astana)

·         “Socially significant project” — L. N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University

·         “Best social-psychological innovation” — L. N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University

Results of the online format of the contest:

Diplomas of I degree 

·         S. M. Toraygirov Pavlodar State University — project “SAVAT”

·         Kh. Dosmukhamedov Atyrau University

Diplomas of II degree 

·         NARXOZ University — project “Opening a psycho-correction center for children with autism spectrum disorders”

·         “Bolashak” University, Kyzylorda — project “Influence of virtual and internet addiction on adolescents’ aggressiveness”

·         A. K. Kusainov Eurasian Humanitarian Institute — project “Psychological and pedagogical support for children with autism spectrum disorders”

Diplomas of III degree 

·         Shymkent University

·         South Kazakhstan Pedagogical University named after O. J. Zhanibek

·         International Kazakh-Turkish University named after Khoja Ahmed Yassawi

Special awards / Nominations:

·         “Socially significant project” — South Kazakhstan Pedagogical University named after O. J. Zhanibek, project “The influence of parents’ psychological culture on bullying dynamics among adolescents”

·         “Contribution to the development of psychological culture” — NARXOZ University, project “Beauty industry and adolescents’ self-acceptance”

·         “Youth Initiative – 2025” — NARXOZ University

·         “Psychological health and resilience” — E. A. Buketov Karaganda State University

·         “Best social-psychological innovation” — Shymkent University

The Republican Contest “Best Social-Psychological Project – 2025” aims to support socially and psychologically oriented initiatives, to foster the research, creative, and innovative potential of youth. Moreover, the contest is intended to address pressing socio-psychological issues in society, to increase social responsibility among students, to develop psychological culture and literacy, and to promote effective communication, adaptation, conflict resolution, and personal development.

Independent judging committee:

·         Raylya Kereyeva — psychoanalyst, representative of the European School of Psychology in Kazakhstan

·         Aigul Mendiyevna Kusainova — educational psychologist, Master of Social Sciences

·         Altynai Kuanishevna Akhmetzhanova — Master of Social Sciences, behavioral analyst

Organizing committee:
Astana International University, School of Arts and Humanities, Psychology program.

On the occasion of the Independence Day of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the School of Arts and Humanities of Astana International University presents a student art exhibition reflecting the creative interpretation of the nation’s historical path, cultural traditions, and contemporary development.

The aim of the exhibition is to highlight the importance of Kazakhstan’s Independence as a foundation for the growth of art, science, and new-generation creativity, as well as to provide a platform for showcasing student talent and fostering professional exchange.

We invite teachers, students, creative professionals, and all art enthusiasts to visit the exhibition and support young artists.

December 11, 2025, at 11:00
Address: 46/1 M. Auezov Street, Astana

Organizer: School of Arts and Humanities

Doctor of Economic Sciences, Professor, and Head of the School of Green Economy at our university, Gulnara Tenelbayevna Lesbayeva, took part in a key event in the field of clean technologies – the evaluation of the finalists of the GCIP Kazakhstan acceleration program (GCIP - Global Cleantech Innovation Programme is a project implemented with the support of international partners and aimed at stimulating innovation in clean technologies).

The most crucial 3rd stage took place within the framework of the large-scale project "Global Cleantech Innovation Programme in Kazakhstan (GCIP Kazakhstan)," aimed at promoting green innovation and entrepreneurship in SMEs. Professor Lesbayeva G.T. was invited to join the Jury for the National Competition for the Acceleration of Green Startups, GCIP Accelerator 2025.

A Pitch Session of 10 finalists was held, where participants presented their innovative solutions in the field of clean technologies (renewable energy, energy efficiency, waste management, etc.). The culmination of the Jury's work was the responsible mission of determining the best 3 startups (projects) that will become prizewinners of the GCIP Kazakhstan acceleration program final. These projects will receive not only recognition but also substantial support for further development and market entry.

Participation in the GCIP evaluation is not only an honour but also an opportunity to see how the future of our economy is being shaped. The presented projects demonstrate the high potential of young entrepreneurs in the field of sustainable development and the creation of 'green' jobs. Our School of Green Economy attaches great importance to supporting such initiatives, - commented Professor Lesbayeva G.T. on her participation.

As part of this event, the Higher School of Economics is implementing SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals, aimed at developing international and regional cooperation to support initiatives in the field of sustainable development.

On December 9, 2025, the Astana International University (AIU) hosted the grand opening of the International School of Student Tourism (ISST)  a joint educational initiative organized by the North-Caucasus Federal University (NCFU) with the support of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, «Россотрудничество», the Program for Youth and Student Tourism (StudTurizm), and Astana International University.

The opening ceremony took place in the university’s assembly hall and brought together representatives of universities from Russia and Kazakhstan, heads of educational institutions, as well as representatives of the StudTurizm program and «Россотрудничество». Among the speakers addressing the participants were Serik Aztaevich Irsaliyev, President of Astana International University; Konstantin Dmitrievich Malyshev, Head of the Department for International Youth Cooperation and Tourism of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Russia; Anna Gennadievna Etko, Head of the Center for International Cooperation Development at NCFU; and representatives of the university administration and the StudTurizm program.

President Irsaliyev emphasized that one of the key goals of the project is to strengthen partnership and friendly relations between the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Russian Federation. Cooperation between the two countries is developing primarily among young people, and such initiatives make a significant contribution to the growth of international academic exchange and the tourism industry.

The main goal of the International School is to develop youth competencies in the fields of tourism and hospitality, as well as to promote the exchange of best practices between student communities of Russia and Kazakhstan. The focus of the school is project-based learning and tourism management. Throughout the week, students will work in mixed teams, developing joint projects aimed at fostering intercultural dialogue, promoting ethno-tourism, and creating educational and cultural routes.

The International School of Student Tourism serves not only as an educational platform but also as a space for friendship, cultural exchange, and professional growth. During the program, participants expanded their understanding of opportunities in the modern tourism industry, strengthened teamwork skills, and gained inspiration to develop their own projects. The organizers are confident that the knowledge and connections acquired during the event will become a solid foundation for new collaborative initiatives and professional achievements in the future.

The International School is held in Astana from December 8 to 14, 2025. The ISST program includes a rich combination of educational, cultural, and project-based activities. Among the key events are lectures, master classes, project sessions, excursions, and creative workshops. The School will conclude on December 13 with the presentation of team projects and a ceremonial awarding of certificates to all participants.