The first scientific and creative hub in Central Asia has opened in Astana. Established at Nazarbayev University (NU), the Önergy Creative Hub aims to support and develop projects within the new creative economy. It houses six laboratories, ranging from digital content and film to biodesign and gastronomy, all focused on practical applications and integrating projects into business and urban life. The hub also offers coworking spaces and a residency program. According to the university administration, this setup allows participants not only to develop ideas but also to transform them into fully realized business products. The space supports the creation of media content as well as projects in the arts. An experimental restaurant featuring nutritionists has already opened in a pilot phase. Organizers say the hub introduces a new model of collaboration, where science and the creative industries work together to generate economic impact. The project is designed to attract talented youth and provide a platform where innovative ideas can grow and reach the market.
«The idea is to bring together science with culture, with art and so on in a creative symbiosis. The way in which this project will work is, my expectation is that it will work with our faculty, with our students, with our scientists, with the broader community, with artists, with writers and so on to address many of the challenges that we are facing,» said NU President Waqar Ahmad.
«This is a space where you can showcase a story, an
infographic, or even use it as an abstract setting. One key feature is a black
cyclorama, which provides an exceptionally deep black—ideal for recording
anything from commercials to engaging, in-depth portraits. We can also fully
support podcast recordings and documentary projects. Our work isn’t limited to
Astana; it extends across Kazakhstan and Central Asia,» said Zhanaidar Mapan, head of the media laboratory.
Related Articles
