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On May 24, 2024, a Competition of social projects was held at the Astana International University based on the results of training of representatives of NGOs and social entrepreneurs in a special course at the School of Social Entrepreneurship «Oreli Urpak».

Over the course of three months, students received training on such issues as social entrepreneurship in the Republic of Kazakhstan (initiatives, cases, experience), measures to support social entrepreneurship in Kazakhstan and in the world, creative thinking and social innovation, financial aspects of social business, and management of a social enterprise.

Based on the results of the training, the best students of the School presented their projects to the jury. The best projects received cash prizes, their success stories will be presented on the social networks of the NGO Academy project. This itemThe project is being implemented with the support of the Center for Support of Civil Initiatives and the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan. And for the fourth year now, Astana International University has been the coordinator of this direction. During this time, more than 600 NGO representatives and social entrepreneurs were trained and received School certificates. Over the years, 9 Winners of the Social Projects Competition have been nominated.

The winners of 2024 were Tanirbergenova Altynai with the project «Production of Kazakh yurts using innovative technology from peeled birch veneer» - 1st place (200 thousand tenge), Madina Daniyarova «Ult Kazynasy» for the production of ethnic clothing, promotion of cultural heritage, national customs and traditions - 2nd place (150 000 tenge) and Marina Boshel with the project “Promoting environmental awareness and social adaptation of women with breast cancer” - 3rd place (100 000 tenge). Congratulations to the Winners and wish all participants the implementation of social projects!

In the period from May 17 to May 19, 2024, the teaching staff of Astana International University, consisting of the Dean of the Higher School of Economics, PhD, Professor Smagulova Z.K., Master, senior lecturer Nurzhanova G.I., Master, senior lecturer Baltabayev B.Zh., took an active part in the XII International Scientific Congress "Entrepreneurship Development: intersectoral priorities, modern mechanisms, consolidation of interests", which took place at the Financial University, Moscow, Russian Federation.

During the two days of the congress, our colleagues not only participated in the work of various sections, but also made presentations on topics related to finance and economics. Their presentations covered a wide range of issues, from state support for the development of agriculture in the Republic of Kazakhstan to aspects of industrial cooperation. These topics aroused considerable interest among the participants of the congress. The degree of elaboration and relevance of the submitted materials were particularly highly appreciated.

The speeches of the delegation from Astana International University received positive feedback from foreign colleagues, who noted the high level of training of the teaching staff of the Higher School of Economics. During the congress, our representatives not only exchanged knowledge and experience, but also conducted active discussions, which contributed to the expansion of professional ties and strengthening inter-university cooperation.

As a result of participation in the International Scientific Congress, important agreements were reached on further mutually beneficial cooperation between Astana International University and the Financial University of Moscow. These agreements include plans for joint scientific research, exchange of teaching staff and students, as well as joint educational programs and projects. Thus, participation in the congress not only confirmed the high level of our specialists, but also opened up new prospects for the development and strengthening of international academic cooperation.

Astana International University expresses its deep gratitude to the Faculty of Economics and Business of the Financial University in the person of Ph.D. in Economics, Associate Professor, Dean of the Faculty Bezsmertnaya E.R., Doctor of Economics, Professor of the Department of Industrial Markets Sharkova A.V., head of the educational laboratory Myktybayeva F.T., senior lecturer of the Department of Industrial Markets Omarova G.T., as well as Doctor of Economics of the Department mass Communications and Media Business Galas M.L., Candidate of Economics, PhD, Associate Professor of the Department of Banking and Monetary Policy Niyazbekova Sh.U.

The Department of Management, Higher School of Economics and Business of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University in March 2024 held the VIII th International Correspondence Olympiad (for students and undergraduates) on the topic: "National models of sustainable development".

The Olympiad was held in two stages: Stage I. The solution of the case. Stage II. Preparation of essay. A total of 17 applications were submitted to participate in the Olympiad. 14 universities of the Republic of Kazakhstan and 4 universities of the CIS countries took part.

According to the results of the Olympiad, the competition commission recommended awarding the diploma of the III degree to the participants of the team: "Triple A": Jasaganbergen Alisha Serikkyzy, Orazova Aruzhan Serzhankyzy, Zhumanova Aruzhan Amangeldyzy – 2nd year students of the OP "Management", supervisor: PhD, Associate Professor of the HSE Kadyrova G. A.

From May 13-17, 2024, the Summer Absolute Swimming Championship of the Republic of Kazakhstan was held in Taldykorgan. The championship is traditionally held every year, but this year it was a qualification for selection for the Olympic Games. Also, for the first time, participants from Uzbekistan and Tajikistan participated in the championship. Ekaterina Vladislavovna Kadatskikh, 1st year student of Finance, HSE, Astana International University, won a bronze medal. Ekaterina has been actively involved in sports for a long time - Master of Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Swimming Champion, Member of the national swimming team and the Astana national team. We are proud that such active students study at our university and wish Ekaterina even greater sporting achievements.

On May 23, 2024, a meeting took place between the President of Astana International University, Serik Irsaliev, and the head of the Earth Fund “Sustainable Development,” Alan Besen, organised be School of Natural Sciences. Besen stated that one of the foundation’s priorities is environmental care and the implementation of environmental protection measures.

During the meeting, cooperation on projects in the field of decarbonization and involving students in events for local area development and landscaping were discussed. The parties agreed on the participation of university students in the International Forest Volunteer School and the involvement of teaching staff in a round table discussion on carbon neutrality in Pavlodar in June of the same year.

At the conclusion of the meeting, a memorandum of cooperation was signed between the parties. Serik Irsaliyev emphasized that collaboration with NGOs plays a crucial role in the university’s strategy, and significant progress toward sustainable development goals can only be achieved through coordinated interaction between universities, the industrial sector, and NGOs.

On April 25-26, 2024, as part of the national project «Enactus Kazakhstan Expo 2024», the team of Astana International University presented their startup project «Betulla» and passed the first stage of the competition. The Enactus AIU team included 1st, 2nd, and 3rd year students, including team captain Sairan Karim, project manager Timur Mukambaev, administrative vice-captain Diana Turlubekova, and team SMM specialist Sapash Aizhan. Our team received its First certificate of participation in the international project Enactus.

University teachers and students came to support the team. For two years, the Enactus AIU team was an active participant in the business incubator «AIU Business Innovation» and underwent training in the incubation program.

Enactus Kazakhstan inspires students to apply their knowledge and develop business projects to achieve sustainable development goals. Now the university team is taking part in the Enactus Kazakhstan Summer School «Summer camp 2024» in the East Kazakhstan region in July 2024. Good luck to the Enactus AIU team! We invite all students to join this project in the new academic year!

From April 22 to 25, 2024, Astana International University hosted the International Scientific and Practical Conference "AIU-2024: Synergy of Education, Science, and Artificial Intelligence: From Idea to Practice." The event brought together leading scientists and experts to discuss innovative approaches to integrating artificial intelligence into education and scientific fields.

Within the framework of the section "IT Innovations with Artificial Intelligence (AI): Technological Progress and Sustainable Development," 15 speakers presented their research, including 13 in an offline format and 2 in an online format. The section was moderated by Yerbol Satybaevich Aldanov, PhD in Physics and Mathematics, Assistant Professor, and Nazym Akhatovna Alimbekova, Master’s Degree Holder, Senior Lecturer at the Higher School of Information Technology and Engineering, Astana International University.

Highlights of the Section’s Presentations

Special attention was given to reports focusing on the application of artificial intelligence and IT innovations across various fields.

Ansar Askaruly Murat, a second-year master's student in the "7M06101 Computer Engineering and Software" program at Astana International University, presented an overview and analysis of technological innovations in STEM education, identifying key trends in the development of digital educational technologies.

Raiymbek Sanzharuly Smadinov, also a second-year master's student in the same program, explored the application of artificial intelligence in the financial sector, emphasizing current challenges and opportunities for integrating intelligent systems into economic activities.

In the online format, Alihan Ruslanovich Uzakbek, a student in the "Business and Management" program at Astana IT University, presented a study on methods for enhancing employee efficiency and motivation through IT tools. His research highlighted the importance of digital technologies in optimizing corporate processes.

A particularly noteworthy presentation was the joint research of Nurdaolet Zhanibekuly Zhumashev, a first-year master's student in the "7M06101 Computer Engineering and Software" program at Astana International University, and Aigerim Keulimzhanovna Buribaeva, PhD, Associate Professor. Their study focused on game complexity adaptation, proposing new approaches for dynamically adjusting game difficulty based on user experience analysis.

Additionally, Takhmina Alimzhanqyzy Yermekbai, a fourth-year student in the "Information Systems and Technology" program, in collaboration with Aizhan Yesbolovna Nazirova, Master’s Degree Holder and Senior Lecturer, presented two significant studies. The first explored key aspects of developing educational applications for children, emphasizing interface usability and the effectiveness of interactive learning methods. The second study examined the evolution of mobile devices, discussing the prospects for future technological advancements in mobility.

The session concluded with a compelling presentation by Madina Abdizhamilkzy Zhankur, a master’s degree holder and teacher at I. Esenberlin School-Gymnasium (Astana). Her research examined the impact of artificial intelligence on sustainable urban development, showcasing the transition from the concept of "smart homes" to "smart cities" and the prospects for integrating AI into infrastructure solutions.

The presentations demonstrated a high level of scientific research and practical significance, fostering in-depth discussions within the section.

Evaluation and Awarding of Participants

The evaluation of presentations was conducted by a competent jury, consisting of leading experts in information technology:

1. Yerbol Satybaevich Aldanov – Jury Chairman, PhD in Physics and Mathematics, Assistant Professor, Higher School of Information Technology and Engineering (HSITEI);

2. Asel Serikovna Mukanova – Dean of HSITEI;

3. Mira Zhorabekovna Kaldarova – Master’s Degree Holder, Senior Lecturer at HSITEI;

4. Nurbolat Tasbolatuly – Associate Professor, HSITEI;

5. Lazzat Tungyshbaikyzy Kusepova – Master’s Degree Holder, Senior Lecturer at HSITEI.

Based on the jury's cumulative scores, the winners were determined:

• Diploma I degree was awarded to Shapagat Kanatkyzy Serikova;

• Diploma II degree was awarded to Rahat Yerezhepov and Mira Zhorabekovna Kaldarova;

• Diploma II degree was also awarded to Gulnazym Duisenbaikyzy Abdikalyk;

• Diploma III degree was awarded to Adilzhan Nurbolatovich Kulmagambetov, Takhmina Alimzhanqyzy Yermekbai, and Zhuldyz Muratkyzy Seksенova.

All participants of the section meeting received certificates of participation in the conference.

The Research Institute of the New Eurasian Land-Sea Transport Corridor at the International University of Astana, together with the International Alliance of Chinese Freight Forwarders and the Union of Transporters of Kazakhstan “KazLogistics”, jointly held a B2B meeting of transport and logistics companies of Kazakhstan and China on May 17.

The Chinese delegation was led by Sheng Xin, Vice President of the Ocean University and Director of the Research Institute of the New Asia-Europe Land-Sea Transport Corridor.

Kazakhstan-China relations have demonstrated continuous growth dynamics for over 30 years. The transportation and logistics direction is becoming increasingly important. Kazakhstan's geographical location provides our country with great opportunities. China, in turn, implementing the Belt and Road Initiative, is interested in a reliable partner.

Currently, favorable opportunities are emerging for the implementation of joint projects in the field of transportation and logistics. More than 90 companies from both countries participated in the event. The head of the Chinese delegation was Lin Beizhan, President of the Lianyungang Belt and Road Development and Research Association and Secretary-General of the International Alliance of Freight Railway Expresses.

The main objectives of the visit were to discuss joint projects for the development of transportation routes, strengthen partnership relations between Kazakhstani and Chinese transport and logistics companies, explore opportunities for mutual investments, exchange experiences in logistics and transportation management, and conclude agreements.

The event proved to be a significant milestone towards the creation of an efficient and modern transportation and logistics system linking our countries and promoting the development of international trade.

As a result of the event, the parties reached a common understanding about the necessity of holding B2B meetings of transport and logistics companies on an annual basis. It was also decided to organize a visit of a delegation of Kazakhstani transport and logistics companies to China in the fall of this year.

On May 17, the ecoclub “Clean & Green” of Astana International University participated in the tree planting event “Aua Fest” as part of the “National Forest Planting Days,” organized by the Earth Fund with the support of the Center for Urban Environment Sustainability. A total of 100 trees (pine, birch, and rowan) with nameplates were planted. Now, our students and active citizens have their own personalized trees, which they can care for and watch grow while walking around the Khan Shatyr center. Astana International University, aware of its social responsibility to citizens, contributes to the greening of the capital and encourages other activists to join such events. Together, we are a force!

As part of the implementation of the scientific project AP19676100 "Development and Testing of Employment Methodology for Socially Vulnerable Groups," a group of scientists from Astana International University made a business visit to Stockholm, Sweden. During the visit, the project leader S.T. Okutayeva and working group member D. Kabdykesheva visited major Swedish organizations involved in the employment of persons with disabilities. 

Samhall is a Swedish state-owned corporation with more than 25,000 employees in cities across Sweden. The company's mission is to create meaningful and developmental workplaces for people with functional variability. 

Misa, founded in 1994, is a social enterprise with 12 branches in Stockholm and 4 in other regions of Sweden. Misa's goal is to organize internships for people with disabilities, as well as to integrate them into social life and ensure their participation in community life "like everyone else."

The acquired international experience will be applied in developing the methodology for employing socially vulnerable groups in Kazakhstan and will be reflected in the scientific works of the project.

From the 16th to the 17th of May at the Faculty of Biology and Geography of Karaganda Research University, named after Academician E.A. Buketova, a Republican subject Olympiad was held among university students across the country in the educational programme “6B05101 Biology”. Two teams from Astana International University participated in the Olympiad.

💠 The Olympics comprised 4 stages: 1st round - testing; Round 2 - introduction; 3rd round - defense of the project; Round 4 - solving practical tasks (in the sections of general biology, zoology, botany, and evolutionary biology).

 In the group competition, the “Bioinfluencers” team of Astana International University (3rd year students of the EP “6B05101 Biology” - Gilazheden Shynar, Nasredin Aldina) secured 3rd place, with the first and second places taken by national universities. The “Darwinian Divas” team (3rd year students of OP 6B05101 Biology - Anna Maller, Aruzhan Saylaubekova) was awarded a certificate for active participation. We sincerely congratulate the leaders of the group, Ph.D. Adamzhanova Zhanna Arintaevna and Ph.D. Zhumagul Moldir Zhakypzhanovna, and the prize-winners! Go AIU!!! 🏅🔬

From November 2023 to May 2024, the training “Improving the Unified National Testing Assessment System” was conducted, organized by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan with The World Bank. 2nd year doctoral student of the Higher School of Law Saulet Kozhakhmetova took part in the implementation of this project.

The training on the implementation of a large project was conducted online and offline for 180 hours, where 350 people, specialists in Unified National Testing subjects, took part from all regions of Kazakhstan.

The purpose of the training is to train developers, testing experts and National Testing Center specialists for the effective development and examination of tasks in accordance with international practice and ensure the further implementation of the UNT.

Within the framework of the project, four stages were carried out, each was educational in its own way; specialists at each of them were trained in the preparation and examination of test items, and mastering testology methods. For the successful implementation of the project, the Training was conducted by international and domestic experts and evaluators (Emily Jones, Ivane Mindadze, David Gabelaya, Katherine Parks, etc.).

The most difficult and very interesting was the last stage, which was devoted to the application of skills in using psychometric data to assess the effectiveness of test tasks, identify problems and suggestions for their improvement. Based on the materials studied, and during the training, each specialist improved his qualifications in testology, gaining new knowledge in this area.

This training provides an opportunity for each participant not only to improve professional skills in the field of testology, but also, in general, to introduce innovative methods into the educational process, in particular for conducting UNT to increase its effectiveness.

To summarize the implementation of this project, an Open Seminar was held on May 14, 2024. It was attended by the Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Mr. Sayasat Nurbek, vice-ministers, the director of the education department of Ginger-SOFRECO, Mr. Hugues Temple-Boyer, the project director and chief assessment specialist, Ms. Jenny Hsieh, the director of the National Testing Center Mr. Bolatbek Abdrasilov, and others.

At the end of the Seminar, certificates of international level were awarded, one of the owners of which was a 2nd year doctoral student at the Higher School of Law Saulet Kozhakhmetova.