Kazakhstan's Nazarbayev University charts bold 2031 innovation and research vision
Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov recently chaired a meeting of the Supreme Board of Trustees for Nazarbayev University, Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools, and the Nazarbayev Foundation. The session focused on reviewing progress and setting future goals for education and innovation in Kazakhstan. During the meeting, officials approved a report on the NIS development strategy for 2025. The report highlighted strong academic results from both students and teachers across the network. A key discussion point was Nazarbayev University’s Long-Term Development Strategy for 2026–2031, which aims to reinforce its role as the country’s top research and innovation centre.
The strategy outlines five main priorities. These include reforming higher education, achieving academic and scientific leadership, and building an academic healthcare system. It also emphasises translating research into practical industrial applications and expanding international partnerships. Bektenov also visited NU Energy, a hub that blends science, technology, creative industries, and entrepreneurship. Its six laboratories are open to the public, turning scientific and creative ideas into real economic solutions. Meanwhile, the university’s Artisan Education platform has already reached over 200 schools in Kazakhstan and is now expanding into ten international markets. Another innovation, Mirai Tech’s smart-insole system for biomechanical analysis, is being used by Kazakhstani football clubs. Pilot programmes for this technology are also underway in Europe and the U.S.
The meeting set clear directions for Nazarbayev University’s future, focusing on research commercialisation and global collaboration. With ongoing projects like NU Energy and Mirai Tech, the institution continues to push boundaries in education, science, and industry. These efforts aim to strengthen Kazakhstan’s position as a leader in innovation and academic excellence.
