A Glimpse into the Future: Participation in the Discussion and Expert Forum at HSE University in Moscow

Participation in the Discussion and Expert Forum of the National Research University Higher School of Economics (HSE University), held in Moscow, Russian Federation, from October 13 to 16, 2026, provided a unique educational and professional experience for faculty members (Z.B. Akhmetova, Candidate of Economic Sciences and Associate Professor, and N.B. Shurenov, Senior Lecturer) and students (K. Baigaltinov, M. Askarova, and Zh. Murzatay) of the Department of Business Technologies at the Higher School of Economics and Business of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University.

The forum brought together leading researchers, experts from the public and corporate sectors, young professionals, and students. Its comprehensive programme addressed pressing issues at the intersection of the modern economy, technology, and society.

From the very first day, participants engaged in discussions on key emerging trends. The expert sessions explored the socioeconomic aspects of tariff regulation, fiscal policy amid structural transformation, and the application of artificial intelligence in international trade and scientific research. Particular interest was generated by sessions focusing on the practical implementation of AI in business and the application of robotics across various sectors of the economy.

The following days of the programme covered a broad range of applied and academic research topics. Key areas of discussion included the assessment of integration processes within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), tax revenue modelling, human capital development, and the safe use of artificial intelligence.

The concluding sessions focused on research and development (R&D) centres, the scaling of IT products, support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and forecasting major economic trends through 2036.

Notably, many of the topics discussed at the forum were closely aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly the following:

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being

The topics discussed addressed issues related to promoting the mental health and strengthening the psycho-emotional resilience of participants in the educational process.

SDG 4: Quality Education

Many of the forum discussions focused on improving the effectiveness of higher education, integrating advanced technologies into educational environments, and adapting academic curricula to the challenges of the digital age.

SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy

Discussions on modernising energy grids, improving energy efficiency, and transitioning to innovative energy sources attracted considerable interest. These issues are essential to establishing the foundations for the sustainable operation of energy systems across EAEU regions.

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

Exchanges of views among members of the academic and educational communities on labourmarket development and productivity focused on creating conditions for quality employment, increasing incomes, stimulating business activity, and promoting economic development across the Commonwealth countries.

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

Several forum sessions addressed the modernisation of urban infrastructure and industry in Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries. These processes are directly linked to the adoption of green technologies and the efficient use of resources.

Thus, participation in the HSE University Discussion and Expert Forum in Moscow reaffirmed that active engagement in such expert platforms provides valuable momentum for developing research competencies and deepening the understanding of global economic trends.