ABAI UNIVERSITY AND PHIHUA EDUCATION COMPANY SIGNED A MEMORANDUM OF COOPERATION

Today in Astana, with the participation of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the international forum of strategic partners “Kazakhstan – The Academic Education Area” continued its work. Within the framework of the forum, Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University and Hongkong PHIHUA Education Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen mutual cooperation.

The forum gathered leaders of top foreign universities, as well as representatives of international ranking and accreditation agencies, including Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO), Beijing Language and Culture University, Cardiff University, Woosong University, National Research Nuclear University MEPhI, Minerva University, and other leading higher education institutions. Among them was also Abai KazNPU, recognized as the pedagogical leader of Central Asia and Kazakhstan.

The international event has become an important platform for exchanging experience in higher education and science, discussing global trends, and developing joint solutions. Heads of universities, research organizations, and global experts discussed key topics such as digitalization, academic mobility, and technology transfer.

In his speech, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev stated:

“Strong universities are factories of the future. They are the birthplace of ideas and the overcoming of barriers. They shape the foundations of a fair and harmonious world. Universities strengthen trust and cooperation between nations and promote the values of diplomacy. The student fraternity, academic partnerships, and research communities that emerge within universities drive change not only in science and education but also in the economy, society, and even politics.”

According to the President, more than 31,000 international students are currently studying in Kazakhstan — a record number for the country. By 2029, this figure is expected to reach 100,000. To achieve this, Kazakhstan plans to simplify visa procedures and create favorable conditions for foreign students.

Speakers at the forum included Sayasat Nurbek, Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan; Nunzio Quacquarelli, President of QS; Anatoly Torkunov, Rector of MGIMO; Peng Duan, President of Beijing Language and Culture University; Wendy Larner, President of Cardiff University; Kim Sung Kyung, Chair of the Woosong Education Foundation; Vladimir Shevchenko, Rector of MEPhI; Ben Nelson, President of Minerva University; and Elchin Babayev, Rector of Baku State University.

Strategic cooperation with leading world universities provides unique opportunities to enhance the quality of education and strengthen human capital. Within this context, Abai University, the first higher education institution in Kazakhstan, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with Hongkong PHIHUA Education Limited aimed at deepening academic collaboration.

“Currently, Abai University maintains partnerships with over 160 leading universities worldwide. We actively promote academic mobility and international collaboration. I am confident that the memorandum with Hongkong PHIHUA Education will further develop our global cooperation and contribute to improving students’ educational experience,” – noted Bolat Anapiyauly Tilep, Chairman of the Board – Rector of Abai KazNPU.

Additionally, with the support of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the parties agreed to establish an International School of Education to expand cooperation between Kazakhstan and China in the field of higher education. The document outlines plans for joint student development programs, academic exchanges, improvement of educational infrastructure, and comprehensive strengthening of bilateral educational ties.

Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University

Press Service