On February 13, 2026, an expanded meeting of the Collegium of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan was held in Almaty at Satbayev University under the theme “Higher Education and Science: The Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence.” The leadership of IQAA took part in the event.
The meeting was chaired by Aida Balaeva, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan – Minister of Culture and Information. The event was also attended by Sayasat Nurbek, Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, more than 100 leading scholars, university rectors, representatives of research organizations, international partners, and members of the expert community.
During the meeting, the Ministry presented its report on the results of activities for 2025 and outlined key objectives for 2026. Particular attention was given to the implementation of the Concept for the Development of Higher Education and Science for 2023–2029, digital transformation of the sector, the introduction of artificial intelligence technologies, improving the quality of training, and strengthening cooperation between science and industry.
In her speech, Aida Balaeva emphasized the importance of ensuring high-quality higher and postgraduate education and instructed to establish systematic cooperation along the “ministry – universities – akimats” line, taking into account real labor market needs.
It was also noted that the country is on the eve of adopting a new Constitution, under which education, science, and innovation are declared strategic priorities for the development of human capital.
Following the meeting, the Deputy Prime Minister outlined key tasks and issued specific instructions to the Ministry.
As part of the event, participants also visited an exhibition of innovative projects developed by universities and research institutes. More than 40 completed, patented, and industry-implemented research projects were presented.
The participation of IQAA’s leadership in the collegium meeting confirms the organization’s active role in advancing higher education and science, as well as in promoting modern digital solutions.
Ministry of Science, Higher Education and Innovation of the Kyrgyz Republic
