Abai University: Issues Raised at the IV National Kurultai Discussed with Presidential Adviser Malik Otarbayev

Today, Malik Nurzhanuly Otarbayev, Adviser to the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, paid a special visit to Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University. He held a meeting with the university`s management, faculty members, young researchers, and senior students.

During the meeting, the instructions given by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev at the IV session of the National Kurultai were discussed, with a particular focus on initiatives related to the development of science, education, and pedagogy. Additionally, scholars and young researchers presented reports on pressing issues affecting societal development.

In his opening remarks, the university`s Chairman of the Board and Rector, Bolat Tilep, highlighted that since 2011, Abai University has been operating seven international Abai Centers at partner universities abroad.

He also noted: "One of the initiatives raised by President Kassym-Jomart Kemelevich Tokayev at the National Kurultai was the proposal to establish `Abai Institutes` abroad. The Head of State stated: `This year marks the 180th anniversary of the birth of the great Abai Kunanbayuly. Five years ago, during the 175th anniversary celebrations in Semey, I met with scholars specializing in Abai studies and proposed the creation of an Abai Institute. Today, this initiative has been implemented in a digital platform format, serving as a tool for teaching the Kazakh language to our diaspora and foreigners. Now, it is necessary to transform this project into full-fledged cultural and educational institutions. These institutions should operate similarly to the Confucius, Goethe, and Cervantes Institutes. The Abai Institute should serve as a center for promoting our national culture in all key partner countries.`

This initiative is not only about honoring the legacy of a great poet and Kazakh thinker on his 180th anniversary but also about broadly promoting national identity and cultural heritage. Fully supporting the President`s initiative, we believe that the global network of Abai Institutes will significantly contribute to Kazakhstan`s integration into the international scientific and educational landscape while enhancing our country`s image," the rector stated.

In his speech, Presidential Adviser Malik Otarbayev highlighted the key issues raised by the Head of State at the National Kurultai, emphasizing the need to uphold law and order, develop public culture, invest in science and education, preserve historical justice, and strengthen national unity.

He also stated: "The four key areas outlined by the President-digitalization and artificial intelligence, transportation, energy, the agro-industrial complex, and human capital-form a comprehensive strategy for Kazakhstan`s innovative development. By integrating these sectors with artificial intelligence technology, Kazakhstan can become not only a regional but also a global technological leader." He further noted that during the IV session of the National Kurultai, the government was tasked with intensifying efforts to create an environment conducive to advanced digital solutions and artificial intelligence development.

At the end of the event, other important issues raised at the National Kurultai were discussed, and participants shared their insights.