MINISTER SAYASAT NURBEK MET WITH ASTANA RESIDENTS
On December 21, Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan Sayasat Nurbek met with residents of Astana and discussed initiatives aimed at the development of science and higher education. During the meeting, topics such as the implementation of the Keleshek program, the opening of branches of foreign universities, social support for scientists and the provision of dormitories for students were touched upon.
In his speech, the Minister presented an overview of the main achievements and results in the field of science, higher education and postgraduate education in Kazakhstan, spoke about the work on the implementation of the unified educational accumulative system "Keleshek" and stressed its importance for the future of the country.
"The Senate of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan recently approved amendments regulating the activities of the Keleshek accumulative system. This system was developed as part of the fulfillment of the tasks set by the Head of State in his Message dated September 1, 2023. It allows parents to plan their children's quality education in advance. The state provides initial educational capital and annual remuneration," the minister said.
The Minister also announced plans to turn Kazakhstan into a major academic hub through the opening of branches of foreign universities and the creation of conditions for technology transfer. Sayasat Nurbek stressed that the opening of branches of foreign universities is an important trend in transnational education. He paid special attention to the branches of prestigious foreign universities that are opening in the capital.
"As part of the instructions of the Head of State and the concept for the development of higher education and science for 2023-2029, work is underway to open branches of foreign universities. Important events took place in Astana this year: President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Chinese President Xi Jinping opened a branch of the Beijing University of Language and Culture at Astana International University. A new campus of the British Coventry University, known for its innovative educational approaches, was also launched. In addition, work is underway at the L.N.Gumilyov ENU to open the second Lu Ban workshop in Kazakhstan," the minister said.
Sayasat Nurbek noted the importance of social support for scientists as a key factor for the development of the country. According to him, improving the social status of scientists and attracting young specialists to science remain important priorities of the Ministry. Special attention was paid to plans and objectives aimed at supporting scientific research.
During the meeting, the head of the department answered questions from residents. One of the residents asked a question about providing financial assistance to universities by their graduates. The Minister noted that the Ministry has currently developed a special draft law "On Endowment Funds", which provides for regulations on the regulation of endowment funds, as well as tax benefits. Endowments have been around abroad for a long time. Thanks to such funds, many scientific discoveries have become reality. In order to support the civic engagement of society and business, the new law will regulate the financial support of universities by patrons, graduates, and other citizens.
After listening to the participants of the meeting and expressing gratitude to them for the active discussion of important issues, the Minister stressed the importance of an open and transparent dialogue with the population.
After the meeting, Sayasat Nurbek held a personal reception for citizens, where he answered questions related to science, higher education and research financing. All the issues raised have been taken under personal control, and relevant instructions have been given to the responsible persons.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/sci/press/news/details/907288