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On April 24, 2025, Astana International University hosted a meeting with a delegation from the Institute of Russia, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS). The event was held in the format of an academic dialogue focused on developing cooperation in science and education.

The AIU side was represented by Vice President Kairat Abdrakhmanov, Doctor of Economic Sciences and Professor Meiram Qazhykен, Director of the Kazakhstan Branch of the Research Institute of the New Asia-Europe Land-Sea Corridor Nurali Irsaliev, and researcher Berik Tabynbayev.

The Chinese delegation included Deputy Director of the Institute Jin Zhe, Head of the Department for Multilateral and Regional Cooperation Li Yunhui, Deputy Head of the Department of the Russian Economy Gao Zixiang, and senior researchers Jiang Jin and Zhao Yumin.

The discussion centered around joint research, academic exchanges, and potential collaborative projects. Topics included the development of international transport routes such as the Belt and Road Initiative and the Trans-Caspian corridor, digitalization, cultural and humanitarian cooperation, and partnerships within organizations such as the SCO, CICA, and BRICS.

Special attention was paid to the strategic role of Central Asia. As one participant noted, “Central Asia is at the crossroads of roads — and that brings great responsibility.” The importance of gradual, trust-based cooperation was also emphasized: “Small steps toward each other mark the beginning of a long journey.”

Culture and education were highlighted as key foundations for sustainable partnership and long-term dialogue.

AIU sees such meetings as valuable opportunities to exchange ideas, build new connections, and launch joint initiatives in science and education.

On April 20, 2025, in celebration of the International Chinese Language Day, a large-scale seminar on enhancing the teaching competencies of Chinese language teachers in Central Asia was held in Astana. The initiative came from the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Kazakhstan, and the event was organized by the Kazakhstan branch campus of Beijing Language and Culture University (BLCU).

At the opening ceremony, speeches were delivered by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the PRC to Kazakhstan, Han Chunlin; the President of Astana International University, Serik Aztaevich Irsaliyev; and the renowned sinologist, Professor Klara Shaissultanovna Khafizova from L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University. The Rector of BLCU, Duan Peng, addressed the participants via a video message.

Ambassador Han Chunlin quoted the Kazakh proverb, “Language is the key to the soul,” emphasizing that the Chinese language carries the wisdom of a millennia-old civilization. He highlighted the uniqueness of Chinese characters, referencing symbols like ren (benevolence) and dao (way), the achievements of Chinese science and culture, and described the development of Chinese language teaching in Kazakhstan as a “golden opportunity.”

Serik Aztaevich Irsaliyev, President of Astana International University, emphasized the importance of the seminar as a platform for experience exchange, professional community building, and expanding cooperation between educational institutions of both countries.

In his video address, BLCU Rector Duan Peng called the Kazakhstan branch campus a “jewel of humanitarian exchange” between China and Kazakhstan, carrying a special mission since its foundation. He expressed hope that the seminar would become a pivotal point in the development of the Chinese language in the region.

Professor Klara Khafizova, in her speech, explored the expressiveness of Chinese characters, the importance of tones, and the connection of the Chinese language to the ethnocultural history of the region's peoples.

Experts from BLCU, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Nazarbayev University, and other institutions delivered presentations. Nearly 100 participants from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and China actively engaged in discussions.

Participants — experts and educators — unanimously recognized the event's success: new knowledge was gained, experiences exchanged, pressing issues discussed, and understanding of Chinese language teaching in Kazakhstan deepened. Topics included the future of Chinese amid global changes, the role of international standards in teaching characters, the effectiveness of the “less theory — more practice” approach, methods and theories of using Deepseek in international Chinese teaching, and new attempts to create culturally rich textbooks for beginner learners. Even after the seminar ended, discussions continued, with participants actively sharing ideas and expressing their readiness to contribute to the strengthening and development of Chinese language education in Kazakhstan.

From April 4 to 5, 2025, AIU took part in the WORLD EDU 2025 International Education Fair, held at the SOF EXPO exhibition center in Samarkand. As one of the largest educational events in the region, the fair brought together over 70 leading universities and educational institutions from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Turkey, China, Russia, Belarus, Europe, and Southeast Asia. Thousands of prospective students, their parents, and education professionals attended the event.

AIU, along with our partners – Beijing Language and Culture University (BLCU) and the University of International Business and Economics (UIBE) – presented their academic programs, admission procedures, opportunities for academic mobility, and features of student life. Visitors showed great interest in our bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs, as well as available scholarship options.

On the second day, AIU was featured on the main stage of the exhibition. Our representatives spoke about the university's strengths, answered questions from the audience, and handed out souvenirs to participants.

In addition to working with prospective students, the AIU team held several meetings with other universities, discussing potential collaborations and student exchange opportunities. We believe these new connections will lead to strengthened partnerships and the launch of joint educational initiatives.

Participating in WORLD EDU 2025 was an important step in promoting AIU on the international stage and highlighted the growing interest in quality education and academic mobility among students.

On April 16, Astana International University was honored to welcome His Excellency Edwin Yabo Glusman, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the State of Israel to the Republic of Kazakhstan, on an official visit.

During the meeting with the university leadership, opportunities for developing cooperation in the field of higher education and science were discussed. Particular attention was given to academic exchanges, internship programs, and the prospects for joint scientific research.

Both parties noted the strong potential for partnership in areas such as economics and water resources. These fields are highly relevant both for Kazakhstan and the international academic community. Representatives of AIU expressed interest in establishing direct ties with several Israeli universities, including Bar-Ilan University and the Holon Institute of Technology.

Discussions also included possible formats for student and faculty participation in international educational programs and the potential for organizing joint activities within the framework of scientific and cultural exchange.

Special attention was paid to issues of effective water resource management. The Ambassador shared Israel’s experience in addressing water scarcity and sustainable use of natural resources. These approaches are of interest to Kazakhstan, particularly in the context of urbanization and efficient water distribution.

AIU is considering participation in initiatives aimed at the development of sustainable water use technologies. In this regard, the involvement of students in research and practice-oriented projects is emphasized as a key component.

The visit also included discussions on economic and philosophical concepts that support sustainable development and the rational use of natural resources. These topics may serve as a foundation for future joint academic discussions.

The parties agreed to initiate cooperation within the framework of the Israel–Kazakhstan Cooperation Forum, which will take place from April 21 to 23, 2025, in Astana. AIU’s participation in this event will mark the starting point for the development of academic and scientific partnership.

AIU expresses its sincere gratitude to Mr. Edwin Yabo Glusman for his visit and looks forward to continuing dialogue and collaboration.

Today, on April 8, a meeting took place at Astana International University between the university leadership and Ms. Yoko Sekiguchi, Second Secretary of the Embassy of Japan in the Republic of Kazakhstan, representing the department of culture, education, information, and consular affairs.

During the meeting, concrete directions for cooperation were discussed. Ms. Sekiguchi expressed her willingness to support the establishment of partnerships between Japanese and Kazakhstani universities, particularly in the areas of international relations, Japanese language teaching, exchange programs, and academic research.

🔹 The discussion touched on possible collaboration between Japanese universities and AIU.
🔹 Special attention was given to student exchange programs, joint educational projects, and faculty internships.
🔹 Ms. Sekiguchi noted Japanese students’ growing interest in learning the Russian language and considered AIU as a potential alternative to Russian universities.
🔹 Prospects for organizing events dedicated to Japanese culture and expanding academic connections were also reviewed.

AIU expressed its interest in establishing direct ties with leading universities in Japan, including an initiative to invite Japanese professors and researchers for lectures and workshops.

🤝 It is essential for students to gain more international experience, and we are glad that such meetings help make it possible.

On March 5, 2025, the Hungarian Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Mr. Otto Ivan Rona, visited the university. During the visit, he met with the university administration and students to talk about the Stipendium Hungaricum program, a scholarship initiative for Kazakhstani students that provides an opportunity to study at leading universities in Hungary.

The Stipendium Hungaricum program is a scholarship initiative that provides students from different countries, including Kazakhstan, with a chance to study at leading universities in Hungary. The program's grants cover tuition, living expenses, and also include medical insurance. The program covers bachelor's, master's and PhD programs, which opens up broad prospects for students who want to receive a high-quality education in Europe.

The Ambassador stressed the importance of educational ties between Hungary and Kazakhstan, noting that participation in the Stipendium Hungaricum helps strengthen bilateral relations. Mr. Rona also spoke about Hungary's foreign policy, focusing on the development of cooperation with Kazakhstan in various fields, including education, economy and culture.

The students showed great interest in the program, asking questions about the application process, the conditions of study and life in Hungary. In response, the Ambassador provided detailed explanations, providing useful information for those who wish to participate in the program.

Astana International University thanks Mr. Otto Ivan Ron for his visit and looks forward to further developing cooperation with Hungary in the field of education. For more information, students can contact the University's Department of International Cooperation.

Students of the Pedagogical Institute of Astana International University, enrolled in the educational program "6B01503-Chemistry," achieved significant success at the III International Chemistry Olympiad among university students, demonstrating a high level of professional training and commitment to achieving their goals.

As a result of their participation in the III International Chemistry Olympiad among university students, the team won three medals, showcasing exceptional skills and professional competence. Furthermore, our students were the only participants additionally awarded prizes for their active involvement in all three sections of the International Scientific and Practical Conference organized as part of the Olympiad.

We are particularly proud of the fact that our team was the only pedagogical team to compete on equal terms with representatives of scientific chemistry and the only representative from Kazakhstan among participants from 13 countries worldwide.

We express our gratitude to the team leader, Damen Aukyovna Nurgaliyeva, for supporting the students, as well as to the participants themselves: Nurlan Muradovich Kairova, a 4th-year student; Қали Асанәлі Манарбекұлы, a 1st-year student; Aslanbek Altynbekuly Akramov, a 1st-year student; and Amadey Vladimirovich Moiseenko, a 2nd-year student, for their hard work, perseverance, and honorable representation of the university on the international stage. Congratulations on your victory, successful performance, and best wishes for future achievements and new triumphs!

From November 1 to November 23, 2024, 4th year student of the educational

program 6B04117 "Economics" Yerzhan Asylym and 1st year master's student of the

educational program 7M04106 "Management" Estemes Dilnaz took part in the

International educational internship "Study tour experience" project of the National

Research University "Higher School of Economics" in Moscow (Russia).

«Study Tour Experience» is a unique project for students who want to try on

the role of a student at a top university and strengthen their resume. The internship

gives the opportunity to achieve new results that are necessary in building a career

and professional activity.

Within the framework of the discipline "Creative thinking and business-idea generation", senior lecturer Baltabayev B.Zh. conducted practical classes on the important topic of sustainable development - SDG 6: Clean water and sanitation. The lesson became a platform for finding innovative solutions to current problems.

In the course of the work, students considered cases related to monitoring water quality, optimizing its consumption in domestic conditions and raising awareness about sanitation and water resources. Among the proposals were the ideas of creating automatic water analysis systems using mobile applications, the introduction of "Smart" technologies to reduce water consumption in everyday life, as well as the development of an educational platform including interactive modules, lectures and tests.

The practical lesson showed that creative thinking is a powerful tool for solving global problems. The participants not only learned the basics of the environmental approach, but also demonstrated a deep understanding of the importance of integrating these solutions into everyday life. The best ideas will be presented at the upcoming business ideas competition. This experience helps students realize their role in achieving sustainable development and improving the quality of life.

On November 22–23, 2024, Astana International University, in collaboration with AI Universal University (India), co-hosted the International Conference on Sustainable Development held in Mumbai. The event attracted leading experts from nine countries, including the USA, China, Iran, Vietnam, the Philippines, and others. Organized in a Case Study format, the conference brought together academics and practitioners to address the key challenges of sustainable development. It provided a unique platform for exchanging experiences, analyzing real-life cases, and exploring practical solutions in areas such as education, economics, and ecology.

The main focus of the conference was on integrating theoretical knowledge and practical approaches through case methodology. This allowed participants not only to discuss pressing issues but also to model potential solutions. Key topics addressed during the conference included:

Innovative approaches to reforming the education system to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs);

Environmental sustainability programs aimed at combating climate change and preserving natural resources;

Promoting sustainable economic growth, considering regional and international integration aspects.

One of the significant outcomes of the conference was the adoption of a resolution aimed at actively incorporating sustainable development principles into educational programs and research. Astana International University demonstrated its commitment to the SDGs by initiating the development of new educational strategies focused on fostering a sustainable university ecosystem.

The conference also featured workshops and interactive sessions, which facilitated intercultural and professional dialogue. Such events strengthen international collaboration and help universities play a leading role in addressing global challenges.

On November 27, 2024, the German Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Monika Iversen, visited Astana International University and delivered a lecture to students of the School of Arts and Humanities enrolled in the "International Relations" and " Translation business" programs. 

Ms. Iversen spoke about the diplomatic relations between Germany and Kazakhstan, focusing on educational initiatives and cultural projects. She emphasized how fostering international partnerships through education contributes to building bridges of friendship between nations. 

The lecture sparked great interest among the students, who discussed prospects for cooperation and opportunities for studying in Germany. The event concluded with an engaging discussion that highlighted the pivotal role of education in strengthening global partnerships. 

Such events play a crucial role in broadening students' global outlook, enhancing their professional growth, and fostering cultural exchange. Astana International University expresses its gratitude to Ms. Monika Iversen for her inspiring lecture and constructive dialogue.

Astana International University (AIU) had the honor of hosting Her Excellency Monika Iversen, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Republic of Germany to the Republic of Kazakhstan.
This visit was not just an official meeting but a lively dialogue that filled the campus with an atmosphere of mutual understanding and aspirations for new achievements. Her Excellency became acquainted with the university’s educational programs and strategic initiatives. The discussion on collaborative opportunities in science and higher education, as well as the prospects for strengthening ties between Kazakhstan and Germany, was especially inspiring.

Monika Iversen emphasized the importance of fostering international partnerships to create new opportunities for students. She noted that such collaborations not only pave the way for new knowledge but also build bridges of friendship between nations.

"We see tremendous potential in partnering with AIU and are delighted to support the university in its ambition to become a significant educational and scientific hub on the international stage," said Ms. Iversen.

Such visits play a vital role in shaping students' global perspectives, expanding their career opportunities, and enhancing cultural ties between countries.

Astana International University extends its gratitude to Ms. Monika Iversen for her visit and constructive discussions, which will undoubtedly serve as the foundation for implementing new educational and scientific projects.