Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev took part in the International Forum of Strategic Partners «Kazakhstan – the Territory of Academic Knowledge». The event brought together leaders of foreign universities, representatives of international accreditation and ranking agencies, and members of the diplomatic corps. In his address, the President emphasized that education and science are key strategic areas that transcend borders and unite nations across the globe. He noted that Kazakhstan places special importance on their development, and the forum serves as a vivid testament to this commitment.
«Since 2019, funding for this sector has tripled. Universities are gaining greater autonomy, and the number of research universities continues to grow. A new Law, «On Science and Technological Policy,» has been adopted, and the National Council for Science and Technology has been established under the President. The government provides comprehensive support to scientists, especially young researchers,» Tokayev said.
In Kazakhstan, government support is also extended to the younger generation. Since last year, the National Fund for Children program has been implemented, and earlier this year, a unified savings system called Keleshek has been launched. Furthermore, the modernization of higher education infrastructure is underway, with new academic buildings under construction. As the Head of State noted, Kazakh universities are showing improved performance in prestigious international rankings. For example, five universities from Kazakhstan were included in the Times Higher Education list. He also emphasized that the country aims to become a fully fledged digital state, with the development and comprehensive integration of artificial intelligence technologies as its highest strategic priority.
«We put special attention to
bringing up experts and specialists in the field of AI. To this end, since the start of this year, we
have launched a program called AI-Sana,
more than 540,000 students have already completed it. Moreover, AI courses have
been introduced as compulsory in all schools and universities. Preparations are
underway to open the AI university here in Kazakhstan,» Tokayev added.
Kazakhstan has set an important goal – to become part of the global knowledge market. Currently, more than 31,000 international students are studying in the country – a record high. By 2029, this number is expected to reach 100,000. In addition, partnerships have been established with 40 leading universities worldwide, and 33 branches of foreign universities have already been opened.
«The opening of branches of foreign universities fully aligns with our goal of advancing engineering and IT education. Three Luban Workshops are already operating in Kazakhstan, having become unique centers of applied engineering education. Training specialists for the nuclear energy sector is of particular importance to us,» the President noted.
In conclusion, the Head of State emphasized that
Kazakhstan will continue to build a Just, Clean, Safe, and Strong nation,
founded on education and science.
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