60 Years of Development: Karaganda University of Kazpotrebsoyuz Brings Strategic Partners Together at an International Forum

On September 24, 2026, Karaganda University of Kazpotrebsoyuz hosted the International Strategic Partners Forum “New Academic Reality: Advanced Competencies, Digital Transformation and Human Potential”, dedicated to the University’s 60th anniversary.

The anniversary forum served as an important platform for professional dialogue among representatives of the education system, government authorities, business, the academic and expert communities, as well as international partners.

The discussions focused on key changes shaping the modern academic environment: the development of advanced competencies, the transformation of educational programmes, the introduction of artificial intelligence and digital technologies, interaction between education and the labour market, human potential development, and new models of strategic partnership.

The Forum brought together participants from Kazakhstan, Russia, Bulgaria and other countries, representing universities, research and educational organizations, government institutions and the business community.

The international composition of participants made it possible to examine current higher education issues from different professional and national perspectives. The Forum programme included panel and sectional sessions bringing together a wide range of experts and practitioners.

The participants were welcomed by Yerkara Balkaraevich Aimagambetov, Rector of Karaganda University of Kazpotrebsoyuz, Doctor of Economics, Professor. The opening session also featured Ruslan Aitykenovich Kenzhebekov, Deputy Akim of the Karaganda Region, as well as representatives of national educational organizations.

The substantive part of the panel session focused on issues directly related to the transformation of modern education. In particular, participants discussed the alignment of educational programmes with labour market needs and the transition from professional standards to advanced competencies.

Special attention was paid to the impact of artificial intelligence on Kazakhstan’s labour market, cooperation between businesses and universities, and ways to reduce the gap between specialist training and employers’ requirements.

The international dimension of the Forum was strengthened by presentations from foreign experts. Sonya Mileva, Vice-Rector of Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” (Bulgaria), presented on leadership in higher education in the era of artificial intelligence, quality, human potential and strategic partnerships.

Representatives of Russian universities and expert organizations also shared their approaches to developing digital competencies, the educational environment and professional education.

A particular focus of the Forum was placed on digital transformation and the use of artificial intelligence in education.

Participants discussed the transition from individual digital initiatives to systemic university transformation, the commercialization of digital solutions, the adaptation of educational programmes to the needs of the real economy, and the use of artificial intelligence technologies in professional training.

During the second part of the programme, discussions continued in sectional sessions devoted to competency development, digital transformation and human potential.

One of the sections focused on the competency landscape of a competitive educational programme. The participants addressed career guidance, the development of a graduate competency model, the new architecture of university education, and the continuity and flexibility of educational pathways.

Another area of discussion focused on the individual as a central element of academic transformation. Participants considered issues of students’ psychological resilience, the development of a constructive educational environment, professional burnout, and human potential development in times of change.

Thus, the anniversary Forum became not only a platform for discussing current issues in education, but also a space for professional interaction and strengthening partnership ties.

The dialogue between representatives of universities, government authorities, business and the expert community made it possible to identify common challenges and areas for further cooperation in specialist training, digital competency development and the creation of an educational environment capable of responding to the demands of a changing world.

The 60th anniversary of Karaganda University of Kazpotrebsoyuz is a significant stage that brings together its history, accumulated experience and new development priorities.

Over six decades, the University has followed a substantial path of development while maintaining its commitment to its core mission — advancing education, science and human potential.

Holding the International Strategic Partners Forum during the anniversary year became a symbolic continuation of this journey: the University is celebrating its 60th anniversary by creating a space for dialogue about the future and strengthening cooperation with partners who are jointly shaping the new academic reality.

The Forum concluded with an open microphone session, providing participants with an opportunity to continue the professional exchange of views and discuss prospects for further cooperation.

Karaganda University of Kazpotrebsoyuz expresses its gratitude to all participants, partners, experts and guests of the Forum for their participation, professional dialogue and contribution to the development of the educational community.