First Graduation of the Foundation Program at BLCU Kazakhstan: A New Stage in Educational Cooperation Between Kazakhstan and China

On June 30, 2025, the branch campus of Beijing Language and Culture University (BLCU Kazakhstan) in Astana hosted the official graduation ceremony for the first cohort of the Foundation program. This event marked the completion of the branch's first academic year and became an important milestone in the history of educational partnership between Kazakhstan and China.

BLCU Kazakhstan was opened on July 3, 2024, at the premises of Astana International University (AIU) and demonstrated significant results within just one year of active operation. Out of 100 students enrolled in the Foundation program, 85 successfully completed their studies, and 55 achieved excellent results in their final exams, earning the right to continue their education in the joint bachelor's degree programs:

·         6B01711 — English and Chinese Languages (Pedagogy)

·         6B02303 – Translation Studies: Chinese Language

The Foundation program has become not only an academic stepping stone for students but also a solid foundation for their professional and intercultural development. Throughout the year, students intensively studied Chinese language, explored Chinese culture and traditions, and developed leadership and academic skills essential for further studies and career advancement.

The following delivered congratulatory speeches to the graduates:

·         President of Astana International University, Serik Aztayevich Irsaliev, emphasized the importance of developing educational cooperation and preparing future specialists capable of building bridges between the two countries' cultures.

·         Chinese Director of the BLCU branch, Liu Xianqian, read a congratulatory message from the Rector of BLCU in Beijing, Mr. Duan Peng, expressing confidence that the branch graduates will become part of the large international BLCU family.

·         Vice President of Astana International University, Kairat Amangeldievich Abdrakhmanov, highlighted the importance of international cooperation and the role of graduates in strengthening ties between Kazakhstan and China.

·         Kazakh Director of BLCU Kazakhstan, Saule Erdenovna Koshanova, summarized the academic year, thanked the teaching staff for their high professionalism, and expressed gratitude to students for their determination and dedication to learning.

Special attention was given to outstanding students and active participants who contributed to the development of the student community and campus life. Among them was Nurtas Kamaliev, who demonstrated exceptional academic and leadership qualities and was awarded scholarships for studies at two of China's top universities.

An essential part of the event was the announcement of upcoming cultural and educational trips for students:

·         From July 4 to 10, three top-performing students will visit Qingdao to participate in a special Chinese culture program.

·         From July 11 to 17, the best students will travel to Xinjiang to explore the region’s unique culture and history with the support of the Embassy of China in Kazakhstan.

·         From July 27 to August 21, 30 students of BLCU Kazakhstan will undertake an intensive Chinese language course at BLCU’s campus on Hainan Island.

During the first academic year, the branch became an active platform for scientific, educational, and cultural events. Forums, seminars, career guidance meetings, visits of Chinese and Kazakh delegations, cultural festivals, and Chinese language competitions were successfully organized.

The first graduation of the Foundation program became a symbol of BLCU Kazakhstan’s successful beginning. Many graduates are now preparing to continue their education in the «3+1» bachelor’s program, which combines studies in Kazakhstan and at BLCU campuses in China.

The branch will continue expanding academic and international opportunities for students, contributing to the training of a new generation of translators, teachers, and international communication specialists who will play a key role in further strengthening cooperation between Kazakhstan and China.

We extend our sincere gratitude for the support provided in the establishment and development of BLCU Kazakhstan to the Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Sayasat Nurbekuly, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Kazakhstan to China, Shakhrat Shakizatovich Nuryshev, and the Embassy of China in Kazakhstan!

We congratulate all graduates and wish them success in the next stage of their educational journey!