Kazakhstan's AI revolution takes center stage at Digital Qazaqstan 2026
The Digital Qazaqstan 2026 exhibition in Shymkent has spotlighted cutting-edge AI innovations across public services, industry, and city planning. Local startups and tech leaders unveiled projects aimed at transforming education, energy, transport, and digital governance in Kazakhstan.
At the event, Timur Turlov outlined plans to embed AI in education and business. A key initiative involves partnering with OpenAI to give Kazakh teachers access to ChatGPT Edu, a specialised tool for learning environments.
Yerkebulan Ilyassov demonstrated **Smart Grid** technology, designed to create smarter, more efficient power networks. Meanwhile, Arman Sabitov presented three major systems: an **Intelligent Transport System** for traffic management, the **AIQYN** school security platform, and a **unified drone network** to support public safety and urban operations. Varos Simonyan announced the rollout of **cross-border e-document exchange**, complete with a secure e-signature verification service. Bagdat Musin revealed the **'Data Valley'** project, a phased plan to develop a tech hub and launch **50 MW AI-powered data centres**. Dmitry Mun showcased two infrastructure projects: the **AlemGPT** multi-agent AI platform and the **National AI Platform**, both intended to strengthen Kazakhstan's digital framework. The exhibition also featured a **startup alley**, highlighting homegrown AI ventures as part of the country's push to grow its own tech ecosystem.
The exhibition underscored Kazakhstan's focus on AI-driven development in critical sectors. Projects like Smart Grid, AIQYN, and Data Valley aim to modernise infrastructure, while partnerships with global firms signal broader ambitions. No official participation from Eurasian Economic Union member states was recorded at the event.
