Kazakhstan will host its first international film festival dedicated to artificial intelligence – the Astana AI Film Festival (AAIFF 2026). The project concept and the launch of the application process were introduced at a press conference in the capital.         According to the organizers, the central event of the festival will be an international competition of short films created using artificial intelligence. Creators from all over the world will be eligible to participate, regardless of country of origin, experience, or access to a professional studio.         “We expect the Astana AI Film Festival to become an annual event in the creative industries and a sustainable international platform for new formats and emerging names. Participation is open to everyone: both teams and individual creators can submit their work,” said Aizatulla Hussain, founder of Ozen and one of the festival’s organizers.         Applications will open in May 2026 and can be submitted via the festival’s official website.         “According to the competition rules, participants must create an AI-generated short film of up to 10 minutes and upload it to the festival’s platform along with a project description. Applications will be accepted from May through the end of August,” noted Almas Zhali, festival organizer and head of Brave Talents.         Astana AI Film Festival is scheduled to take place in autumn 2026. The festival will serve as a platform for projects at the intersection of the film industry and AI technologies, bringing together authors, digital creators, technology companies, experts, and investors.         The total prize fund will amount to $1 million, making it one of the largest in its category. The project is financed through sponsorship and partnership contributions.         The festival program will include film screenings, an AI content conference, as well as pitch sessions for creators and producers.   Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-nairobi/press/news/details/1226227?lang=ru

On May 2, 2026, one of the most spectacular natural events of spring will take place in the Zhetysu Region – the «Sivers Apple Blossom» Festival. This is an important event dedicated to a rare and extraordinary natural phenomenon.The event will be held on the territory of the «Zhongar-Alatau» State National Natural Park, in the picturesque surroundings of Topolevka village in the Sarkan district. This location was not chosen by chance: it is here that one of the largest groves of the wild Sivers apple tree in the world is found. This species is considered the ancestor of all cultivated apple varieties on Earth. According to scientists, approximately 48% of the global natural population of this unique apple tree is concentrated in the Zhetysu region.Once a year, for just a few weeks in spring, the mountain slopes are covered with delicate white and pink blossoms, transforming the valleys into breathtaking natural landscapes. During this period, thousands of tourists, photographers, and travelers visit the region to witness this rare natural phenomenon, learn its history, and experience the festival atmosphere.The festival brings together representatives of the tourism industry, environmentalists, scientists, media professionals, travel bloggers, artisans, cultural figures, as well as students and nature enthusiasts. The event serves as a platform for the development of eco-tourism, the preservation of natural heritage, and the international promotion of the region.The event is included in Kazakhstan’s national calendar of official events, highlighting its significance and tourist appeal.This year’s festival will offer a special atmosphere for guests. Headliners — Bayansulu and Kuandyk Rakhym — will take the stage and present a vibrant concert program against the backdrop of blooming mountains.Festival program includes:Panoramic views of blooming Sivers apple orchards;Plein air painting competition;Cultural events;National sports games;Handicraft exhibitions and master classes;Concert and entertainment programs.The «Sivers Apple Blossom» Festival is an opportunity to witness one of Kazakhstan’s most beautiful natural phenomenon, spend in the mountains surrounded by fresh air, get closer to national culture, and experience unforgettable impressions.Zhetysu invites you to get closer to a living legend of nature!Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-addis-ababa/press/news/details/1210356?lang=kk

In the institutions of the criminally-executive system of the North Kazakhstan Region, special attention is paid to the development of traditional crafts as an important element of employment and social rehabilitation of inmates.One of the most notable examples is the activity at Institution No. 48, where inmates are engaged in the production of horse equipment. They were trained in this craft by entrepreneur Vladimir Osipov, who has been working in this field for more than 12 years and has involved inmates in production since 2021.Currently, 11 people are employed under his supervision. To help them master all aspects of the craft, the entrepreneur invited specialists who trained the inmates in sewing skills and working with materials. On average, it takes about three months to fully learn the trade.The inmates produce a wide range of goods, including saddles, harnesses, bridles, halters, reins, stirrups, spurs, whips, and other elements of horse equipment. In addition, related products such as belts, collars, and other items are also manufactured. This work requires attentiveness, precision, and perseverance: for example, it takes about half a day to make a belt, several hours to produce a quiver, and up to six bridles can be made in one day depending on their complexity.A special place is given to the personal story of one of the inmates working in this production. Since childhood, he has been interested in traditional crafts, practicing wood and bone carving and enjoying drawing. He recalls watching his grandfather weave kamchi (traditional whips), although he did not manage to master this skill at that time. Before his conviction, he worked as a mason, carpenter, and welder. After being employed by Vladimir Osipov, he began working with leather and felt, and in 2025, with the help of his mentor, he successfully mastered the weaving of kamchi.As the inmate himself notes, this work is not only a way to earn money or stay occupied, but also an opportunity to contribute to society by producing quality goods and preserving national traditions.The products are in demand not only within the North Kazakhstan Region but also in other regions of the country and even abroad.Alongside this, woodworking is actively developing in the region’s institutions. Inmates produce items with national character, such as carved boxes, traditional astau bowls, tables, and other household items decorated with Kazakh ornaments. This work requires not only technical skills but also patience and attention to detail.The development of traditional crafts helps inmates acquire work skills, discipline, and a sense of responsibility. The knowledge and experience gained can serve as a foundation for future employment after release or even starting their own business.Overall, Institution No. 48 houses around 650 inmates, of whom 415 are employed. Six individual entrepreneurs operate within the facility, providing jobs and opportunities to gain practical experience.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/duissko/press/news/details/1208019?lang=kk

Press release"Deception Cloud: a repository emptying wallets"Center for Forecasting Criminal Threats and PublicSafety Risks of the Committee on Legal Statistics and Special AccountingThe Prosecutor General's Office warns about a new Online fraud scheme aimed at users of cloud services.According to foreign sources(https://www.theguardian.com/money/2026/apr/12/apple-icloud-storage-scam-emails,https://lenta.ru/news/2026/04/13/apple-scam /, https://www.obozrevatel.com/ekonomikaglavnaya/economy/moshenniki-atakuyut-vladeltsev-iphone-kak-dejstvuet-novaya-shema.htmHackers are massively sending fakeemails, SMS messages, and notifications to iPhone users about allegedly overflowingiCloud cloud storage.The notifications mention account blocking and possibledeletion of photos, videos, and documents.The messages completely mimic the official notificationsof popular services, including cloud platforms, which creates the illusionauthentication and pushes the user to take action.To enhance the urgency effect, users are offered to clickon the link and increase the storage capacity, update payment data, orrestore access.By clicking on the link, potential victims are taken to a phishingsite that copies the original services, where the entered usernames,passwords and bank data become available to cybercriminals.This way can be sent notifications about various the cloud storage services (Google Drive, cloud Mail.ru, Yandex Disk, etc.).Given that this type of threat is beginning to spread,it is recommended:- exclude clicking on links from SMS, emails andinstant messengers with "urgent" notifications;- check the status of cloud storage only through officialapplications or websites;- do not enter usernames, passwords and bank details on third-party pages;- enable two-factor authentication on all cloud andemail accounts;- use unique and complex passwords for different services;- if hacking is suspected, immediately change the password and end allactive sessions.Remain vigilant: check any messages about data deletionor account blocking only through officialservices.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanai-kamysty-klochkov/press/news/details/1208035?lang=kk

The canine service plays a vital role in maintaining law and order and ensuring security within penal institutions. Reliable, resilient, and dedicated, these four-legged partners stand guard alongside officers every day.At Institution No. 50, there are currently 4 canine handlers and 7 service dogs on duty. Each team represents a well-coordinated unit, where mutual understanding and trust form the foundation of effective work.The main tasks of service dogs include guarding the facility’s perimeter, detecting prohibited items, inspecting vehicles and incoming parcels, as well as tracking work. Thanks to their keen sense of smell and specialized training, these canine officers are capable of detecting what is impossible for humans to notice.Every day, handlers conduct training sessions with their dogs aimed at maintaining and developing professional skills. This includes practicing commands and service tasks, physical conditioning, and even elements of play, which help maintain a strong emotional bond between the handler and the dog. After all, service dogs are not only reliable partners but also loyal companions.One such team is Sergeant of Justice Zhanay Kanat and an East European Shepherd named Gretta. Despite her young age—she has just turned two—Gretta already confidently performs her duties and demonstrates strong results in service.Service dogs typically serve for up to 7 years, depending on their breed and health condition. After completing their service, they retire with honor and continue to live in care and comfort.The canine service is a clear example of true cooperation between humans and animals, where loyalty, discipline, and trust become the foundation of a shared mission—ensuring safety and order.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/duissko/press/news/details/1208039?lang=kk

A tree planting event was held as part of the "Clean Kazakhstan" Republican campaign.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kegen-kegen/press/news/details/1207958?lang=kk

As part of the Taza Kazakhstan program, work has been carried out to clean up the city. During the events, streets, courtyards and public areas were cleared, garbage was removed, parks and squares were put in order. The cleanliness of the city is the overall result and an important contribution to the formation of a comfortable and favorable urban environment.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanai-kalasy-akimat/press/news/details/1207921?lang=kk

Astana, April 24, 2026 – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yermek Kosherbayev met with the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction - Head of the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) Kamal Kishore, who arrived in Astana to participate in the Regional Ecological Summit.At the meeting, the minister reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s commitment to the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030, including efforts to introduce preventive measures, risk assessments, and the adaptation of urban infrastructure to climate change in line with Kazakhstan’s international commitments.Foreign Minister highlighted the UNDRR’s contribution to the development of the Regional Strategy for Cooperation among Central Asian countries in Disaster Risk Reduction for 2022–2030, which has laid the foundation for coordinated action among the region’s nations.Kishore expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and the substantive program of the Summit, where the UNDRR delegation discussed joint measures aimed at preventing and responding to the consequences of natural and man-made disasters, including enhancing water and energy security, strengthening climate resilience and economic development, as well as reinforcing cooperation between emergency agencies of Central Asia and the United Nations.The parties also addressed issues of inclusivity and the protection of vulnerable groups in emergency situations, climate challenges and the water agenda, as well as the activities of the Centre for Emergency Situations and Disaster Risk Reduction (CESDRR) in Almaty.Following the meeting, the participants agreed to continue dialogue on the implementation of best practices in emergency prevention.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1207877?lang=kk

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/almobl/press/news/details/1207880?lang=kk

April 23, 2026The Head of State met with the leaders of several international environmental and climate organizations to discuss ways to implement key environmental initiatives in the Central Asian region.Kassym-Jomart Tokayev thanked the participants for their support of the Regional Environmental Summit and expressed confidence that their rich expertise would help to advance practical approaches to the shared environmental challenges.As he noted, Kazakhstan attaches great importance to the contribution of international institutions in ensuring sustainable development and biodiversity protection.The President emphasized that Kazakhstan advocates to promoting environmentally responsible behavior at both the regional and global levels. The new Constitution, recently adopted at the national referendum, elevates environmental protection to the level of a fundamental state value.In turn, the representatives of the international conventions thanked Kassym-Jomart Tokayev for the high-level organization of the Regional Environmental Summit.They also welcomed the implementation of the Taza Qazaqstan (Clean Kazakhstan) program, designed to foster environmental awareness among citizens.Furthermore, the distinguished guests expressed their support for Kazakhstan’s global initiatives aimed at addressing climate and water-related issues.The meeting was attended by Inger Andersen, UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP); Ivonne Higuero, Secretary-General of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES); Astrid Schomaker, Executive Secretary of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (СBD); and Rolph Payet, Executive Secretary of the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions.https://akorda.kz/en/president-kassym-jomart-tokayev-met-with-heads-of-international-conventions-2334642 Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-nairobi/press/news/details/1207859?lang=kk

 On April 23, 2026 - The Consul General of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Busan, Aslan Askar, held a meeting with the Vice Mayor of Busan for Future Innovation, Dr. Son Hee-yeop (Ian Seong).During the meeting, the parties discussed prospects for developing cooperation in the transport and logistics sector as well as in IT. Particular attention was paid to linking Kazakhstan’s logistics capacities in Lianyungang and Xi’an with the port infrastructure of Busan in order to advance the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor). The sides also discussed technological partnership, including the establishment of joint laboratories in the field of artificial intelligence and strengthening ties between the innovation clusters “Astana Hub” and “Centum 2.”In addition, issues related to expanding air connectivity and enhancing cooperation in medical tourism and education were reviewed. The Vice Mayor informed about the introduction of the new visa system “City Visa Busan,” aimed at supporting Kazakhstani students and professionals.In the context of preparations for the upcoming State Visit of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, to the Republic of Korea in September 2026, the parties confirmed their readiness to hold a large-scale Kazakhstan–Korea business forum with the active participation of Busan’s business community. For reference: Busan is the second-largest city and the largest port of the Republic of Korea, serving as a global logistics and technological hub. The city is actively implementing its “Global Hub City” strategy, with a focus on future innovation, the digital economy, and high-tech industries.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-busan/press/news/details/1207870?lang=kk

Strasbourg, April 22-23, 2026 – Senator Evgeniy Bolgert took part in the spring session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE).During the visit, Mr. Bolgert held talks with PACE President Petra Bayr (Austria).In addition, the Kazakhstan parliamentarian held bilateral meetings with the leaders of all PACE political groups – Mr. Zsolt Németh “European Conservatives, Patriots and Allies”, Mr. Pablo Hispán “European People’s Party”, Ms. Laura Castel “United European Left”, Mr. Iulian Bulai “Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe”, Frank Schwabe “Socialists, Democrats and Greens”.Mr. Bolgert informed his colleagues about the progress of democratic processes in the Republic of Kazakhstan and the modernization of the political system.Special attention was paid to constitutional reform. European parliamentarians were thoroughly informed about the results of the nationwide referendum held on March 15, 2026, and the key conceptual innovations of Kazakhstan’s new Constitution.During the meeting with Ms. Bayr, a wide range of issues related to current cooperation between Kazakhstan and PACE was discussed.In turn, the heads of PACE political groups noted the relevance of the reforms being carried out in Kazakhstan and emphasized the importance of achieving tangible improvements and results. At the same time, it was highlighted that democratization is a long-term process. European MPs stressed the need to develop a strong Parliament that represents the interests of the entire population.The President and political group leaders of the Assembly showed particular interest in the upcoming parliamentary elections in Kazakhstan.On the sidelines of the plenary session, Mr. Bolgert met with PACE member Constantinos Efstathiou (Cyprus). The parliamentarians discussed the current human rights agenda within the framework of cooperation between Kazakhstan and the Assembly. The European MP was presented with an objective overview of the modernization of the country’s human rights landscape and the strengthening of the human rights dimension of its domestic political system. In turn, Mr. Efstathiou noted the “high culture of tolerance” in Kazakhstan.In addition, Mr. Bolgert spoke at a round table titled “Constitutional and Parliamentary Reforms – A New Stage of Political Transformation in Kazakhstan,” attended by PACE members, representatives of Council of Europe institutions, international experts, and the diplomatic corps.Among the speakers were Mr. Zsolt Németh, Ms. Birutė Vėsaitė Deputy Chair of the «Socialists, Democrats and Greens Group», Ms. Natalie Sabanadze Director for Political Affairs and External Relations of the Council of Europe and Mr. Emmanuel Dupuy President of the Institute for Prospective and Security in Europe.International observers who participated in the recent republican referendum in Kazakhstan – Mr. Alberto Turkstra Project Director «Diplomatic World», and Mr. Islam Tekushev representative of the media platform «Free Eurasia Foundation» shared their assessments of the voting process and the new Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-strasbourg/press/news/details/1207846?lang=kk

Pursuant to the instructions of the Head of State to stimulate business activity, the Damu Entrepreneurship Development Fund (a subsidiary of Baiterek) has launched a new Isker Aimak program aimed at supporting micro and small businesses.The initiative provides for the introduction of a single systematic approach that provides entrepreneurs with access to preferential financing through subsidized interest rates.The program is focused on the development of rural areas and small towns. The priority industries identified are manufacturing, agricultural processing, food production, furniture and building materials, as well as handicrafts.As noted by the Chairman of the Board of the Damu Foundation, Farhat Sarsekeyev, the program provides for the active participation of akimats and NCE "Atameken" in determining priority areas, taking into account the specifics of the territories. Additionally, each district will be able to select up to six industries for targeted support.By 2029, the program plans to support about 15,000 business projects worth 1.2 trillion tenge.Special attention is paid to the participants of the initiatives "Auyl Amanaty" and "One village - one product". Financing is distributed according to a two-tier system: 30% of funds are allocated to priority regions (Abai, Ulytau, Zhetisu, North Kazakhstan and Kyzylorda regions), 70% - to other regions, except for the cities of Astana and Almaty.The first projects have already been approved under the program, for which the rate for entrepreneurs has been reduced from 22% to 13.2%.Among them are projects to expand shoe production, develop sunflower oil production, as well as steel structures and construction mesh.The maximum amount of financing is up to 200 million tenge. The funds can be used for investment purposes and replenishment of working capital.The remuneration rate is formed according to the principle: the base rate of the National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan plus 4%, the subsidy covers 40% of the nominal rate, while the final rate for the borrower is at least 12.6%. The subsidy period is up to 3 years.Currently, six second-tier banks and four leasing companies are partners of the program. In the future, the list of financial institutions will be expanded.In addition to financial instruments, non-financial support measures are available to entrepreneurs, including preferential rent and training. Online courses are available on the official website of the Damu Foundation. It is planned to launch mobile front offices for residents of remote settlements.Additional information can be obtained on the website of the Damu Foundation or by calling the contact center number 1408 (toll-free).https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/economy/press/news/details/1207825?lang=ruSource : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanai-ekonomika-zhosparlau/press/news/details/1208239?lang=kk

 Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mod/press/news/details/1207780?lang=kk

Moscow, April 23, 2026 – Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Alibek Bakayev, held a meeting with Ambassadors of African states accredited to the Russian Federation.During the meeting, Deputy Minister Bakayev briefed participants on the large-scale economic and political reforms being implemented in the country. It was noted that the new Constitution, adopted following a nationwide referendum, is aimed at strengthening the principles of justice, the rule of law, and building an inclusive society.Particular attention was given to the development of Kazakhstan-Africa cooperation. The Kazakh diplomat emphasized that Africa is regarded as one of the priority directions of Kazakhstan’s balanced foreign policy, with engagement based on the Concept for Cooperation with African States and the African Union for 2025-2030.The sides noted the intensification of political dialogue, including exchanges of visits at the highest and high levels, the expansion of inter-ministerial consultations, as well as the development of inter-parliamentary cooperation. Special emphasis was placed on strengthening the legal and contractual framework and expanding Kazakhstan’s diplomatic presence on the African continent.A steady positive trend in trade and economic cooperation was also highlighted. At the end of 2025, trade turnover between Kazakhstan and African countries reached a record level of 1.172 billion US dollars. The importance of further developing transport and logistics connectivity, as well as expanding direct contacts between business communities through business forums and trade missions, was underlined.Within the multilateral agenda, the Kazakh side reaffirmed its interest in deepening coordination within the UN, the OIC, and the African Union, as well as in promoting joint initiatives on issues of mutual interest.Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to further strengthen political dialogue and trade and economic ties aimed at fostering mutually beneficial and long-term partnership between Kazakhstan and African countries.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/news/details/1207743?lang=kk

Tour operators from China visited the Samara coast of East Kazakhstan as part of a working trip dedicated to the development of tourism cooperation and exploring the potential of the region. During the visit, representatives of the Chinese tourism industry discussed with local authorities the prospects for cooperation and further joint projects.According to them, the area has an advantageous geographical location and significant potential for tourism development. The guests got acquainted with the proposed recreation centers, toured tourist cabins and the surrounding area. They paid special attention to the picturesque coast and the favorable mild climate, noting their attractiveness for future tourist routes.- We are consistently developing the infrastructure of the coast, creating conditions for a comfortable and safe reception of tourists. Our coast is already popular with Russian citizens, and we will be glad to receive guests from China," said Serik Zhenisov, Akim of Samar district.Infrastructure improvements are planned for the coast in the near future. In particular, mobile and Internet coverage will be provided, as well as further repairs of the highway on the Samar – Mirolyubovka section.Representatives of the Chinese delegation positively assessed the results of the trip and expressed their willingness to develop cooperation. According to the agreements reached, with the beginning of the tourist season, it is planned to organize trips of Chinese citizens to the Samar region.Recently, a delegation of the East Kazakhstan region headed by Deputy Akim of the region Bakytzhan Bayakhmetov visited the city of Urumqi in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of the People's Republic of China, where a number of memorandums of cooperation were signed, including in the field of tourism development.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/vko-samar/press/news/details/1207675?lang=kk

In a large-scale project that united over 55,000 people, more than 300 educational organizations from 16 districts and 4 cities of the region took part.In the Kostanay region, in honor of April 23 – the National Book Day, the results of the "Reading Nation" project were summarized, and the winners were solemnly awarded. The large-scale initiative, implemented in the region, involved 55,000 participants and turned into a major public movement popularizing reading culture.Kostanay is a sacred land with deep educational traditions. It is the homeland where the founder of the first school in the Kazakh steppe, Ybyrai Altynsarin, and one of the founders of national spirituality, Akhmet Baitursynuly, left their mark. Within the framework of this historical continuity, the initiative of the Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to form a reading nation is being systematically implemented in the Kostanay region.Speaking at the solemn ceremony, Akim of the region Kumar Aksakalov emphasized the importance of reading for the development of society:"A reading person is always ahead thanks to their knowledge, distinguished by breadth of thinking and competitiveness in any environment. Our main goal is to educate youth not only as educated but also as deeply thinking and spiritually rich. This project is an important step on the path to forming an intellectual nation," noted the head of the region.The event was also attended by the State Prize laureate, Honored Worker of Kazakhstan, Chairman of the TURKSOY Writers' Union Ulykbek Yesdaulet, who highly appreciated the spiritual significance of the project and the development of reading culture in the region.The project covered 16 districts and 4 cities of the Kostanay region, uniting more than 300 educational organizations. In total, over 1,200 intellectual events (quizzes, debates, book discussions) were held. As a result, the number of library visitors and new readers increased significantly, indicating the formation of a sustainable reading culture in the region.One of the key success factors of the project was the active participation of the teaching community. More than 11,000 teachers worked in close cooperation with libraries, systematically introducing students to reading and supporting the educational process. This significantly increased the level of children's involvement and formed an effective model of interaction "school – teacher – library".More than 400 civil servants participated in the project. Despite their high workload, they showed a sustained interest in reading, noting its influence on broadening their horizons and improving the quality of decisions made. This indicates that reading culture is gradually taking root in the civil service system as well.As a result of the project, the reading activity of participants increased severalfold. At the gala evening, the best participants were awarded diplomas and certificates worth 1 million, 600 thousand, and 400 thousand tenge. The total prize fund amounted to 40 million tenge.The implementation of the large-scale project became possible thanks to the support of the "AMANAT" party and a major agro-industrial company of the region – "Olzha Agro" LLP. This partnership clearly demonstrates the shared responsibility of the state and business for the development of human capital in the region."Reading Nation" is not just a project, but a national movement turning knowledge and intellect into key values of society. The experience of the Kostanay region confirms that the idea of forming a reading nation is successfully being implemented in practice.In the region, the "Reading Nation" project was implemented with the support of the "AMANAT" party and the "Olzha Agro" company.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1207676?lang=kk

Central Asia is experiencing accelerated glacier melt. Under a high-emissions scenario (SSP5-8.5), the region could lose up to 85% of its glacier volume by 2100 compared to 2020 levels. This increases pressure on water resources, infrastructure and communities, while also heightening the risk of natural hazards, including glacier lake outburst floods. As these processes are regional in nature, they require coordinated responses across countries.In response to these challenges, the UNESCO Regional Office in Almaty organized the session “Cryosphere of Central Asia: from scientific assessment to joint climate adaptation action” during the Regional Ecological Summit (RES 2026) in Astana, in cooperation with the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources and the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The session was held within the framework of the GEF–UNDP–UNESCO Cryosphere Project and in collaboration with Central Asian countries.A key outcome of the session was the discussion of the Joint Subregional Action Programme (JSAP) on the cryosphere — a framework document developed by Central Asian countries with the support of UNESCO, aimed at strengthening regional cooperation in monitoring and research of glaciers, snow cover and permafrost, as well as aligning approaches to climate change adaptation.“UNESCO has been actively supporting Central Asian countries in strengthening the scientific basis and advancing regional cooperation on the cryosphere. Today, the key priority is to move from scientific assessment to concrete action. The Joint Subregional Action Programme provides a practical framework for this transition and enhances coordination of adaptation efforts across the region,” said Mr Amir Piric, Director of the UNESCO Regional Office in Almaty. At the conclusion of the session, heads of relevant government authorities from Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan responsible for environmental protection issued a Joint Statement in support of the implementation of the JSAP, reaffirming their commitment to strengthened regional cooperation.“Today it is clear that no country can effectively address climate change challenges alone. Regional cooperation is therefore essential. The Joint Statement reflects the readiness of Central Asian countries to join efforts and develop coordinated approaches to climate change adaptation,” said Mr Nurlan Kurmalayev, Vice Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan.The JSAP provides a foundation for coordinated action among countries and partners, defines cooperation priorities and supports the advancement of climate adaptation measures in the region. The Joint Statement also opens opportunities for mobilizing funding from various sources, including donors, international financial institutions and the private sector. Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/ecogeo/press/news/details/1207658?lang=kk

On April 23, 2026, the East Kazakhstan Regional Scientific and Methodological Center for Informatization and Development of Education "Örken" of the Education Department of the East Kazakhstan Region held a regional seminar "Innovative Approaches in Music Education: Using AI in Music Lessons" to disseminate the experience of music teachers from Ust-Kamenogorsk.Music teachers from the region participated in the seminar.During the seminar, teachers conducted master classes and shared their experience on the following topics: "AI in Music Lessons: An Overview of Useful Services for Teachers"; "Using Artificial Intelligence in Music Subjects Through Modern Platforms"; "Gamification and Artificial Intelligence in Music Lessons in Primary School: Methodology of Systemic Integration"; "The Effectiveness of Using Artificial Intelligence in Music Lessons"; "Artificial Intelligence in Music Lessons: A Teacher's Assistant and a Student's Inspiration"; "Innovative Approaches in Music Education: Using AI in Music Lessons"; "A New Tool - A New Opportunity: Using Grok in Lessons".Participants were provided with handouts (with QR codes) about the platforms presented during the seminar and their use.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/vko-bilim/press/news/details/1207592?lang=kk

Today, at the “Rukhaniyat” Center, a meaningful event titled “The National Book – A Heritage for Future Generations” was held in honor of April 23 – National Book Day.The event opened with a book exhibition titled “Children’s Literature – The Beginning of Spiritual Education,” featuring valuable works that promote national values.The festival continued with a poetic marathon called “The World of Books Woven with Poetry,” where school students expressed their love for literature through poetry.At the celebration, the Deputy Akim of the district, Dias Moldabayev, delivered a congratulatory speech, noting:“Today, this field is receiving significant attention from both the state and society. At the core of this value lies the essence of our people—their culture, traditions, and history. If this day truly becomes a great national celebration, it will signify that we have reached a high level of civilization. Therefore, promoting our intellectual and spiritual heritage is our duty.”During the event, library staff and active readers were awarded certificates of appreciation from the district akim, recognizing their contributions.As part of the “Donate a Book to the Library” campaign, the library’s collection was enriched with new books, continuing a noble tradition.Speeches were also delivered by Abdrahman Kulduisenov, Chairman of the District Public Council, Shegebay Kundakbayev, Chairman of the “Ult Birligi” public association, and Yerbolat Uzakbayev, Chairman of the Veterans Council of Zhosaly settlement, who emphasized the importance of books in national upbringing.During the event, active students recited poetry, while local performers enhanced the evening with beautiful musical performances.The festival continued in the conference hall with a special poetry evening titled “New Generation – New Poetry.” During the evening, Kenzhebek Tanbayev, Deputy Chairman of the District Veterans Council, gave a speech and offered his blessings to the youth.Young representatives aspiring toward a bright future presented their own works, leaving a strong impression on the audience and enriching the spiritual atmosphere of the evening, where poetry and music blended harmoniously.Today, nearly 456,000 books serve the residents of the district. With the support of the regional akim and district leadership, the “Night Library” project is being implemented, creating comfortable conditions for readers.Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kyzylorda-karmakshy/press/news/details/1207572?lang=kk