EPU and Erasmus+ Experts Gather at KazNU

Al-Farabi Kazakh National University hosted a plenary meeting of the Eurasia-Pacific Uninet (EPU) network and a seminar dedicated to cooperation within the Erasmus+ programme.

The large-scale international event brought together university leaders from Kazakhstan, Austria, China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Mongolia, and India, representatives of the diplomatic corps and international organizations, renowned scientists, and coordinators of educational projects.

At the forum, First Vice-Rector of KazNU Samgat Yermekbayev read out a welcoming address from Zhanseit Tuimebayev, Chairman of the Board – Rector of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University.

“The development of international partnerships plays a crucial role in strengthening the global role of universities. For more than 25 years, the Eurasia-Pacific Uninet network has facilitated close cooperation among universities, researchers, and faculty members. It is a unique platform built on academic trust, knowledge exchange, and joint efforts to address contemporary challenges. Therefore, today's meeting opens up new horizons for the development of science and education,” the Rector stated in his welcoming address.

In turn, Professor Josef Strobl, President of Eurasia-Pacific Uninet, emphasized the importance of international academic networks in advancing higher education and science. According to him, long-term and sustainable partnerships make it possible to implement new scientific initiatives, strengthen cooperation among researchers, and widely disseminate best practices.

“Today, our main objective is to take the established partnerships to a new level and increase the number of joint scientific research initiatives and educational projects. Meetings like this create opportunities for researchers and students to exchange experiences and actively participate in international initiatives,” the professor emphasized.

The central topic of the plenary meeting was the European Union's Global Gateway initiative and the opportunities it offers to countries in Central, East, and South Asia. Participants discussed the initiative's impact on economic policy and the higher education sector.

A significant part of the meeting focused on strengthening academic ties with Austria. Experts explored ways to enhance international mobility through the Erasmus+ programme and presented their experiences in implementing joint projects.

As part of the forum, an exhibition of EPU partner projects and a presentation platform for higher education institutions were organized. Representatives of 22 Austrian universities and research organizations, along with international delegations, participated in these activities.

“The main value of such international platforms lies in strengthening direct ties between universities from different countries and identifying specific areas for cooperation. In this regard, the Erasmus+ programme and the Eurasia-Pacific Uninet network contribute to expanding our universities' international connections. We are interested in further developing joint projects with universities in Kazakhstan,” said Akylbek Shymyrov, Vice-Rector of Kyrgyz State Technical University.

Dana Abdrasheva, Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs at Korkyt Ata Kyzylorda University, addressed the evolving demands of the labour market in her speech.

“The main objective of such meetings is to identify common ground between the European and Kazakhstani higher education systems for future joint projects. Preparing students for the rapidly changing labour market is an extremely important issue. In Kazakhstan, dual education, micro-credentials, industrial internships, and the involvement of industry professionals in the educational process help address this challenge. All these tools are aimed at bringing universities closer to the labour market and, consequently, preparing highly qualified specialists whose skills are in demand,” she said.

The international event is being held from October 7 to 9. The programme includes EPU thematic and regional roundtable discussions, an examination of the impact of the Erasmus+ programme on the development of higher education, a meeting of the EPU General Assembly, a presentation of opportunities offered by the Horizon Europe programme, and discussions on the future of higher education in Asia.

Пресс-служба КазНУ имени аль-Фараби