Together towards new discoveries

The week-long stay of the University of Arizona delegation at Kozybayev University was productive and eventful. During this time, much was accomplished: from participating in the opening ceremony of a modern coffee shop to interesting meetings with North Kazakhstani schoolchildren at NIS. American colleagues discussed academic issues with the university leadership, communicated with students and teachers, and visited a meeting of the Academic Council and scientific seminars. Together with the university's scientists, they discussed issues of inclusive education and biotechnology.

To develop joint solutions in the field of digitalization and artificial intelligence, current IT specialists, professors from the University of Arizona, scientists from the Faculty of Engineering and Digital Technologies, representatives of the SKO Digital Technologies Department, and students gathered at a round table. One of the topics of discussion was the creation of a Center for Artificial Intelligence on the basis of our university, which will become a center of attraction for ideas and projects in the field of digital development at the regional level.

"Today, Kazakhstan is entering a new digital era. The Head of State, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, in his annual Address to the people of Kazakhstan set a clear and strategically crucial task of transforming Kazakhstan into a fully digital country within three years. Based on large-scale digitalization and active implementation of artificial intelligence technology, we must modernize the economy. A Digital Code will be adopted, the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development will be formed, and the total implementation of AI will be ensured to transform all areas of the economy. Kozybayev University cannot stand aside from these global processes. As the only university in the region, we realize our responsibility for shaping the digital agenda at the local level," noted Chairman of the Board – Rector Yerbol Issakayev.

A bright event of the visit of the University of Arizona delegation was the initiation of dual-degree program students into the Wild Cats family. The guests also took part in local media programs and a career guidance campaign to attract applicants to dual-degree programs.

"Students studying in our programs can, in addition to a dual degree, gain huge practical experience both inside and outside the classrooms. This ultimately gives them a set of skills that will help them thrive in the global market," said Kevin Carton, Manager of Global and International Programs of the College of Information Sciences, in an interview.

Today, 5 dual-degree programs in educational inclusion, biotechnology, and IT are being implemented jointly with the University of Arizona. Next year, it is planned to open two more—in business and medicine.

We wish success to our partners from Arizona! We look forward to further productive joint work!