15TH INTERNATIONAL FORUM OF SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURS AND INVESTORS HELD IN OMSK

Zubirash Smagulova, PhD, Professor and Dean of the Higher School of Economics at Astana International University, participated in the 15th International Forum of Social Entrepreneurs and Investors held in Omsk, Russian Federation.

As part of the forum, Zubirash Smagulova delivered a presentation during the discussion entitled “Community as an Equal Partner: Crowdfunding, Participatory Approaches and New Decision-Making Mechanisms in the Social Sector”. Her presentation highlighted Kazakhstan’s experience in engaging local communities in addressing socially significant issues, including participatory budgeting, the development of social entrepreneurship, and partnerships among the government, business and civil society. Particular attention was given to the transition from the traditional model of social support towards the active involvement of communities in developing and implementing social initiatives.

One of the forum’s key events was Professor Zubirash Smagulova’s original masterclass entitled “The University as a Social Entrepreneurship Ecosystem: Education, Research and Social Innovation”. The session presented Astana International University’s experience in developing social entrepreneurship, including the implementation of educational programmes, the activities of the School of Social Entrepreneurship, research projects, and cooperation with social entrepreneurs. Participants discussed opportunities to integrate education, academic research, student initiatives and social business to address societal challenges.

During the forum, Astana International University and the Omsk Centre for Social Innovation, headed by I. V. Serbina, signed a cooperation agreement. The agreement aims to develop joint educational, research and practical initiatives in social entrepreneurship.

A meeting was also held with representatives of the Siberian Institute of Business and Information Technology. The parties discussed expanding interuniversity cooperation, developing academic mobility, and implementing joint educational and research projects.