Educating the Next Generation of International Relations Professionals: Knowledge, Practice and Creativity

On 15 October 2026, first-year students at the Faculty of International Relations of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University held a student conference entitled “The Role of International Mechanisms in the Development and Regulation of Diplomatic and Consular Services.”

The event was centred on the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, one of the foundational instruments of modern diplomacy. Students explored the history of its drafting and adoption, analysed its key provisions and discussed their significance for international diplomatic practice. Particular attention was paid to the Convention’s role in the establishment and development of the diplomatic service of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The conference combined academic analysis with creative approaches to learning. Participants staged theatrical performances, examined diplomatic case studies and demonstrated how the Convention’s provisions apply to specific situations. A flash mob and the performance of an original song about the Vienna Convention, written by the students themselves, added a distinctive creative dimension to the programme.

The event formed part of the English-taught course “Diplomatic and Consular Service.” This format enabled students to consolidate their theoretical knowledge while developing skills in the analysis of international documents, public speaking and teamwork. Taking responsibility for organising the conference strengthened students’ motivation and provided opportunities to develop their research capabilities and creative potential as future international relations professionals.

The choice of venue, the Zh. U. Ibrashev’s hall, the founder of the Faculty of International Relations at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University gave the event particular symbolic significance. 

Held with the active support of the Department of International Relations and World Economy and the Dean’s Office, the conference continued the Faculty’s tradition of educating successive generations of international relations professionals.

Organiser: Delovarova L.F., Acting Professor, Department of International Relations and World Economy.