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At the Children's University of the Astana International University (AIU), there are no dull homework assignments or grades. Instead, students engage in experiments, uncover the mysteries of nature, and transform knowledge into superpowers! On March 29, 2025, the Children's University buzzed with energy during the "Knowledge Invasion 2025" exhibition. Fifth and sixth-grade students from schools No. 17 and No. 4 in Astana, alongside university students, showcased a vision of the future featuring robots, scientific projects, and cosmic enigmas. Subsequently, on April 5 and 12, a new kind of learning commenced—distinct from traditional schooling.

Mathematics proved to be anything but boring! Under the guidance of Ph.D. in Physics and Mathematics, Associate Professor Almir Askarovich Aniyarov, students explored topics like "The Use of Mathematics in Everyday Life" and "Measuring Object Heights Using Geometry Theorems." They discovered how barcodes work, where mathematics appears in daily life, and its importance—all facilitated by enthusiastic and knowledgeable university students who helped unravel the secrets of numbers and shapes.Ph.D. in Biology, Associate Professor Bulat Zulkharnayevich Zhumadilov, delivered an engaging lecture on the role of living cells in the human body, expanding students' understanding of cell structure and function. Students also participated in the "Environmental Protection and Care for Nature" program led by Ph.D. in Biology, Associate Professor Dinara Turapbaevna Isakova.Students delved into the captivating world of physical phenomena during sessions titled "Science Comes Alive: Practical Physics for Children" and "Fun Physics: Experiments That Amaze," organized under the leadership of Ph.D., Associate Professor Serik Amangeldinovich Nurkenov.As part of the "We Are Friends of Nature!" theme, young attendees were introduced to the basics of ecology and natural chemistry. Sessions were conducted by Ph.D. in Chemistry, Associate Professors Damen Aukilovna Nurgalieva and Zharkyn Zhakiyevna Zhumagalieva, who captivated children with the magical world of chemical transformations.On April 5, Ph.D., Professor Binur Khabasovna Musabaeva, in collaboration with Ph.D. Gulnar Murzakanovna Nurgazina, led a session on "Chemical Elements in Nature," during which children not only learned where chemical elements can be found in everyday life but also eagerly observed fascinating experiments. On April 12, 2025, Ph.D. in Chemistry, Associate Professor Saltanat Manarbekovna Bolysbekova, conducted an unforgettable session titled "Magic Chemistry." From the very beginning, students were immersed in the atmosphere of a real scientific show. Many children later admitted, "Chemistry is now my favorite subject!"On April 5, students embarked on an extraordinary journey around the planet during the session "Natural Phenomena and Disasters," led by Ph.D. Talant Nurzhakypovich Samarkhanov. Alongside Senior Lecturer Madina Syrlybaevna Baizhanova, students learned to read maps, locate geographical objects, and understand how maps assist in navigating the modern world.During computer science sessions with Ph.D. Saule Kairollovna Damekova, students immersed themselves in the world of geographic information systems and robotics. They discovered how electronic maps are created to help manage cities and plan routes. Discussions included robots participating in the WorldSkills Lyon 2024 competition, as well as introductions to innovative educational robots like STEAM Qobo, Tale-Bot Pro, and the CoDrone Mini drone.We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the students of the Astana International University who dedicated their passion, time, and energy to preparing and conducting these sessions. Mathematics Program (6B01506): Tazhibay Bekmakhan, Kalabay Araylym, Lesbek Nurjamal, Mayorova Darina, Zhidegaliev Sergazy, Berikbay Altyn.

Physics Program (6B01505): Zhusupbekov Damir, Amanzhol Inkar, Rustemova Symbat, Yerbolova Madina, Makhatov Alisher.

Chemistry Program (6B01503): Yesirkep Aikorkem, Zheksembek Akmaral, Moiseenko Amadey, Satybaldy Akulpa.

Geography Program (6B01504) and Master's Program (7M01504): Yergeshova Madina, Sagynbayev Algabek, Sayyn Askar, Yeskendir Mukhamedzhan, Shapikhova Anelya, Alim Zhanserik, Kaliaskar Aknur, Saparkanova Karaka, Serikkazin Aidar.

-Computer Science Program (6B01501), 1st Year:Zhanbolatov Luqman, Kadyrzhan Eldar, Bekmurza Aruzhan, Ydyge Izat, Avyzar Bekarys, Orynbay Gauhar, Uybagarova Nazereke, Tyulyugazy Medina, Bashar Nurkeldi, Yergara Birganym.

From April 4 to 5, 2025, AIU took part in the WORLD EDU 2025 International Education Fair, held at the SOF EXPO exhibition center in Samarkand. As one of the largest educational events in the region, the fair brought together over 70 leading universities and educational institutions from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Turkey, China, Russia, Belarus, Europe, and Southeast Asia. Thousands of prospective students, their parents, and education professionals attended the event.

AIU, along with our partners – Beijing Language and Culture University (BLCU) and the University of International Business and Economics (UIBE) – presented their academic programs, admission procedures, opportunities for academic mobility, and features of student life. Visitors showed great interest in our bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs, as well as available scholarship options.

On the second day, AIU was featured on the main stage of the exhibition. Our representatives spoke about the university's strengths, answered questions from the audience, and handed out souvenirs to participants.

In addition to working with prospective students, the AIU team held several meetings with other universities, discussing potential collaborations and student exchange opportunities. We believe these new connections will lead to strengthened partnerships and the launch of joint educational initiatives.

Participating in WORLD EDU 2025 was an important step in promoting AIU on the international stage and highlighted the growing interest in quality education and academic mobility among students.

On April 17, one of the key events of the II Central Asian Media Forum took place at the campus of the first British university in Astana — Coventry University Kazakhstan 🇬🇧.

The event brought together representatives of international media and high-level speakers. The Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Sayasat Nurbek (@sayasatnurbek), delivered a speech on the topic "Kazakhstan – an academic hub."

The program also featured a presentation of Coventry University Kazakhstan, highlighting its contribution to the development of transnational education in the region.

Astana International University was represented by 20 third-year students of the Translation Studies program, who had a valuable opportunity to explore current trends in international journalism and media communications, practice their translation skills in a professional context, and broaden their understanding of the media-education relationship.

We thank the organizers for the invitation and for the opportunity for our students to be part of such a meaningful event!

On April 16–17, 2025, a master class titled “How to Prepare Scientific Articles for Scopus and Web of Science Journals. Master Journal List” was held at the Pedagogical Institute of Astana International University. The speaker was Professor Emin Atasoy, PhD, from Uludağ University (Bursa, Turkey). The event was attended by faculty members and master's students of our university.

The goal of the master class was to promote the development of scientific competencies among young researchers and to increase their awareness of the publication process in international academic journals indexed in Scopus and Web of Science.

During the session, Professor Atasoy elaborated on the key stages of preparing a scientific article—from selecting a topic and justifying its relevance to clearly describing the methodology, analyzing results, and drawing conclusions. Special attention was given to the requirements and selection criteria of journals listed in the Scopus and WoS databases, as well as the stages of the peer-review process.

Participants received practical recommendations on how to improve the quality of their research papers, prepare materials for submission to international journals, and interact effectively with editors and reviewers.

This event contributed significantly to the professional development of both master's students and academic staff, supporting their integration into the international scientific community and the advancement of academic research on a global scale.

Sholpan Myrzakasymovna Shuinshina, Candidate of Pedagogical Sciences, Associate Professor, has been awarded a departmental award from the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan for her significant contribution to the development of science and education.

The award ceremony took place during a meeting between Minister of Education Gani Beisembayev and educators working in the field of science and education. During the meeting, the Minister outlined the main priorities for the development of pedagogical science and emphasized the importance of integrating scientific research into educational practice.

The online event was attended by heads of pedagogical universities and representatives of the academic community, who discussed pressing issues related to improving the quality of education.

We sincerely congratulate Sholpan Myrzakasymovna Shuinshina on her well-deserved award and wish her continued success in her academic and professional endeavors!

On April 18, 2025, as part of career guidance and motivational activities, AIU professors met with students of School-Lyceum No. 95 in Astana.
The speakers were Associate Professor of Physics Serik Amangeldinovich Nurkenov and Associate Professor of Mathematics Almir Askarovich Aniayrov.
The meeting took the form of a motivational lecture, during which the professors spoke about the importance of fundamental sciences — physics and mathematics — in the modern world, and their role in scientific and technological progress and the development of innovative technologies.

The students listened with great interest to real-life examples, asked questions about choosing a profession, and explored current opportunities in education and science. The atmosphere of the meeting was warm and inspiring, which is especially important for fostering interest in the exact sciences and supporting students in their professional self-determination.

On April 9, 2025, a video contest was held, where students of the specialty "Recreational Geography and Tourism" presented short videos about their profession. 🌍✨🏅 The winners were awarded with diplomas:

The 1st place was taken by the RGiT-23A group 1 - for the originality, emotional presentation and expressive visual style of the video clip.

 The 2nd place was awarded to the RGiT-23B group for professional installation and a deep look at tourism as a way of life.

The 3rd place was awarded to two groups: RGiT-22 and RGiT-23B - for their creative approach and team spirit.

We sincerely thank all participants of the contest! All participants demonstrated a sincere love for their future profession and a vision for the future of tourism and geography! Each video is a reflection of your personal attitude towards your profession and future career.

Follow the news of the Globus circle — there are even more exciting events ahead where you can unlock your potential and share your ideas!

We would like to thank the leaders of the Globus circle, Avezova A.A., Zhanabaeva S.A. and Auyezova N.S. for their active career guidance and for the support of students.

On April 9, 2025, a meeting of the Academic Committee of the Higher School of Natural Sciences was held to update the educational program "Ecology and Nature Management". The meeting was attended by Dana Zhanibekovna Agybaeva, Chief Expert of the Committee for Environmental Regulation and Control of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Aigul Zulkharnayevna Zhumadilova, Head of ESG Trend LLP, Zhanseit Farkhat, Director of Ecoservice-S LLP, as well as other specialists and experts from organizations directly working in the field of environmental protection, environmental consulting, nature management and sustainable development.

An open dialogue between the university and employers made it possible to determine the requirements for the competencies of future graduates: what knowledge and practical skills a modern ecologist should have, what criteria for selecting graduates are used by employers when hiring, and what specific changes need to be made to the educational program to train in-demand and competitive specialists. Employers emphasized the need to strengthen practice-oriented disciplines and introduce real cases and practical tasks from professional activities into the educational process. It was recommended to include in the program disciplines related to environmental management, sustainable development, ESG reporting, environmental auditing, as well as digital tools for environmental monitoring.

Academic committees are an effective platform for strengthening the connection between science, education and business, and most importantly, they play an important role in the formation of the country's professional human resources potential in the field of ecology and sustainable development.

On April 10, 2025, a meeting of the academic committee of the Higher School of Economics on Recreational Geography and Tourism was held in a mixed format with the participation of potential employers in order to update the educational program, adapt the content of curricula to the changing requirements of the labor market and new trends in the field of tourism and recreation.

The event was attended by:

1. Loginovskaya A.N. - Candidate of Geographical Sciences, Associate Professor of the Department of Environmental Safety of Telecommunications, St. Petersburg State University of Telecommunications named after Prof. M.A. Bonch-Bruevich"

2. K.B. Samarkhanov - PhD, PhD, Chief Researcher of the Astana International Scientific Complex

3. Head of Rice Travel LLP - Raushan Mamayeva

The employers suggested:

- introduce practice-oriented courses on tour management, tourism marketing, and customer service.

- strengthen the study of digital tourism and sustainable tourism and cultural geography

On April 15, another guest lecture was held on the topic "Language acquisition: speaking and teaching to speak" for students of the educational program 6B01707 "Kazakh language and Literature". The lecture was conducted by the teacher of the Department of Kazakh Language and Turkology of Nazarbayev University, the author of KAZTEST, level textbooks Aidar Kalaiberdyuly Balabekov.

During the lecture, he shared his experience of teaching Kazakh to representatives of other nationalities, emphasizing the importance of continuous professional growth for future specialists, the need to be on the lookout and be creative in their work. The lecture was held in a question-and-answer format, in which the faculty and students of the university exchanged views and expressed their views.

In conclusion, PhD, Associate Professor G.K. Rezuanova spoke, thanking Aidar Kalaiberdyuly Balabekov for his informative lecture and shared his experience, expressing hope for further creative cooperation.

On April 1, 2025, an extended meeting of the academic committee was held under the initiative of the Informatics educational program to discuss the content and updates of the 6B01501 – "Informatics" and 7M01501 – "Informatics" programs as part of the 2025 admission process.

The event was attended by:

• From L.N. Gumilyov ENU: Karina Galiahmetkyzy Balgynbayeva – PhD, and Aidanа Nazarova – doctoral student of the 8D01501 "Informatics" program;
• Employers from general secondary schools under the Astana Department of Education: Zhanara Bakytzhankyzy Egeubayeva (School №16 named after T. Aybergenov), Gulmira Mirashkyzy Mukhysheva (Gymnasium №67 named after I. Esenberlin), and Sholpan Olzhekenkyzy Kozhakhmetova (School-lyceum №56 named after Shakarim);
• Faculty of AIU: Damyekova S.K. – PhD, head of the Informatics program; Bamyuratova Dilaram Bekbulatkyzy – PhD; Jamalova Samal Arynovna, Malik Olzhas Zhanatuly, Abilova Perizat Nurkhatkyzy, and Myrzayeva Zhansaya Lesbayevna – senior lecturers;
• Participants also included 2nd-year master’s students of 7M01501 “Informatics,” 2nd-year TVE students, and undergraduate students of 6B01501 “Informatics.”

To strengthen cooperation between universities and schools, school teachers shared their ideas and suggestions for improving educational programs and training future specialists.

Employers’ suggestions included:

1. Strengthening practice-based learning with project assignments using AI tools.
2. Updating approaches to graduation projects by encouraging students to develop educational IT products with AI support (online courses, simulators, educational apps).

Suggestions for updating the educational programs:

1. Changes in course content:

• Add a module on working with generative AI (Midjourney, DALL·E, Runway ML) in the “Web Design” course;
• Include assignments using neural network APIs in practical classes for the “Artificial Intelligence” course.

2. Additions to learning outcomes:

• Skills in developing digital educational solutions using artificial intelligence.

Upcoming changes for the next academic year and the implementation of dual-degree qualifications were also discussed.

On April 9, 2025, the "STEM BATL" intellectual contest was held among first-year students of the IFM (Informatics, Physics, Mathematics) direction, initiated by the Informatics 24-A group (supervisor: Senior Lecturer Samal Arynovna Jamalova).

The goal of the event was to develop students' subject knowledge, logical thinking, ability to respond in English, and teamwork skills.

The contest consisted of 4 rounds:

1. Logical questions in a “yes/no” format;
2. Riddles (read in English, with answers given in Kazakh, Russian, and English);
3. “Cells” round (questions on Informatics, Physics, and Mathematics);
4. Practical round (logical tasks using real objects).

A total of 6 teams participated:

• “IQ team” (Informatics 24-A)
• “Shabut stars” (Informatics 24-A)
• “Oysanak” (Mathematics 24-A)
• “Sharingan” (Mathematics 24-A)
• “Balabol” (Physics 24-A)
• “Evriks” (Physics 24-A)

Judging Panel:

• Abilova P.N – Senior Lecturer
• Myrzaeva L.S – Senior Lecturer
• Jamalova S.A – Senior Lecturer
• Students: Satjan Aruzhan, Kenzhebekov Elzhan (Informatics 24-A)
• Students: Bulanin Artem, Mukhametgali Nurdaulat (Informatics 22-A)

The competition was held at a high level. Participants demonstrated active engagement, wit, and subject knowledge.

Winners of the contest:

• Grand Prize – “Oysanak” team (Mathematics 24-A)
• 1st place – “Shabut stars” team (Informatics 24-A)
• 2nd place – “Evriks” team (Physics 24-A)
• 3rd place – “IQ team” (Informatics 24-A)

Teams awarded with certificates of appreciation:

• “Sharingan” (Mathematics 24-A)
• “Balabol” (Physics 24-A)

The winners and top teams were awarded special diplomas and gifts. The event proved to be an important platform for developing students' creative potential.