KazNU Across Borders: First-Year Perspectives of Tomorrow’s Doctors
At the start of the academic year, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University welcomes international students into its Faculty of Medicine. Coming from countries like Yemen, India, Sudan, and Afghanistan, they begin not only their medical studies but also a journey of cultural exchange and personal growth.
To support this, the university organizes events that help students feel part of the community. One such event, “Healthy Lifestyle – Healthy Nation,” introduced students to the values of well-being and unity as part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) program.
In the interviews below, students reflect on their first experiences at KazNU, their changing view of medicine, and the importance of such events in their academic and social lives.
Osamah Fahd AL-Ozaib
1st course student
Faculty of medicine and health
Country: Yemen
– How has your perspective on medicine changed since studying at KazNU?
– Since studying at KazNU, my view of medicine has become much more practical and patient-centered. I’ve learned that medicine is not just about memorizing facts, but also about understanding people and solving real-world problems. The hands-on training and early exposure to clinical cases have really opened my eyes to the responsibility doctors carry. It’s made me more passionate and motivated to become a knowledgeable and compassionate physician.
– How well do you think KazNU prepares students for real medical practice?
– KazNU does a great job of combining strong theoretical foundations with practical experience. We have access to experienced faculty, modern labs, and early clinical exposure, which helps us apply what we learn in real-life situations. The curriculum is well-structured to gradually build up our clinical skills. I feel more confident each year that I’ll be ready to handle the challenges of medical practice after graduation.
– What did you think about the "Healthy Lifestyle – Healthy Nation" event?
– The event was an eye-opening experience for me. I was impressed by the variety of perspectives shared by students from different countries on health and well-being. I really appreciated how the event highlighted the importance of maintaining good health for a prosperous society, which aligns perfectly with SDG 3. It made me realize that health is not just an individual responsibility, but a collective one that can shape the future of nations.
– How did this event help you feel more connected to the university and your fellow students?
– The event was a great way for me to connect with other students from different cultures and backgrounds. It made me feel part of a global community here at KazNU. I was able to share experiences, learn new things, and discover different cultural practices related to health. It made me feel more integrated into the university and more motivated to contribute to the well-being of others.
Mehvish
2nd course student
Faculty: general medicine
Country: Kashmir India
– How has studying at KazNU influenced your future plans?
– Studying at KazNU has significantly broadened my perspective, both academically and culturally. It has opened up more opportunities for my future, from research prospects to potential career paths I hadn’t considered before. Being part of such a diverse and dynamic environment has motivated me to aim higher and think more globally.
– What advice would you give to other international students thinking about studying here?
– My advice would be to fully embrace the experience – both academically and socially. Don’t hesitate to engage with people from different backgrounds, because socialising here is a big part of personal growth. Be open-minded, take advantage of the resources and opportunities available, and you’ll gain so much more than just a degree.
Abdul Rahim Kabiry
2nd course student
Faculty: pharmacy
Country: Afghanistan
– How would you describe your experience with the education system here?
– Studying in Kazakhstan, especially at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, has been a very different experience compared to my studies in Afghanistan. The education system here is more interactive and research-based. I really appreciate the focus on practical knowledge, presentations, and critical thinking. At first, it was a bit challenging to adjust, especially because I was used to a more traditional and theory-heavy system back home. But over time, I started to enjoy the learning style here. It encourages more independence and involvement in class discussions, which I find very helpful for personal and academic growth.
– What do you think about the university buildings and facilities? Are they comfortable for studying?
– Yes, I find the university buildings and facilities very modern and comfortable. The lecture halls are well-equipped with projectors and comfortable seating, and the libraries are spacious with good access to both printed and digital resources. The laboratories, especially in the pharmacy, are equipped with advanced tools and technology, which really helps with understanding practical subjects. The campus itself is beautiful and has peaceful spots for studying or just relaxing between classes. Overall, I feel like the environment here truly supports learning.
Ahmed Alsamani
1st course student
Faculty: medical department
Country: Sudan
– What does a typical day as a medical student at KazNU look like for you?
– A day in alfarabi kazNU is very busy but enjoying at the same time, usually my lectures start between 9 AM and 12 AM. The schedule is quite full of anatomy, histology, microbiology, chemistry, and biology sessions.
We don't take a lot of practical lessons on real patients because we still in the 1st year of college,but we work on models that are similar to the actual human body and also we study histological slides. The study program depends on seminars so we need to represent the topic to the group mates and also answer oral questions.
The university has a busy and intense way of teaching but it's rewarding and helps me to learn how to become a future doctor.
– How does the teaching style at KazNU compare to what you’re used to?
The style of studying in alfarabi kazNU is very strict and academically demanding, and i think it's because it's researhes university, but at the same time this style helps us a lot as its preparing us to become doctors that are capable of doing research that will be effective in treating the patient.
– How did the "Healthy Lifestyle – Healthy Nation" event impact your view on health and wellness?
– The event really expanded my understanding of what it means to have a healthy lifestyle, especially from the perspective of sustainable development. I learned that health is not just about eating well or exercising, but also about mental and emotional well-being. SDG 3 emphasizes good health and well-being for all, and this event beautifully highlighted how interconnected health is with the overall development of a society. It was inspiring to see the variety of ways different cultures approach well-being.
Susan Sultani
4th course student
Faculty: general medicine
Country: Afghanistan
– What changes would you like to see in the education system at KazNU?
– As a medical student at KAZNU, I would like to say that there is more focus on theory but not on clinical parts, While our theoretical foundation is strong, there is often a delay in real clinical exposure. Medicine is a practical science, and learning must extend beyond textbooks. I would like to see students, even in their early years, spending more time in hospitals, observing doctors, interacting with patients under supervision, and participating in real medical procedures. This will not only build confidence but also bridge the gap between theory and practice.
– What would you recommend to junior students?
To junior students and future doctors, medicine is a challenging yet deeply fulfilling journey. Build a strong academic foundation, stay organized, and let your curiosity guide your learning. Prioritize your mental and physical well-being your future patients need a healthy you. Learn from mentors, grow with peers, and never lose sight of your purpose: to help others. Treat every patient with dignity, and listen with empathy because medicine is both a science and an art. As future doctors, our values and choices today shape who we become. Let us lead with compassion, integrity, and dedication starting right here at KazNU, where our journey begins.
At Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, international students don’t just gain medical knowledge – they become part of a diverse and supportive community. Events like “Healthy Lifestyle – Healthy Nation”, organized by the university and faculty, play a vital role in this journey. Through cultural exchange and discussions around SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), students feel more connected, inspired, and included.
These initiatives help shape not only future doctors, but also open-minded individuals who understand the importance of health, unity, and shared responsibility. For many, it’s a reminder that their education here goes far beyond textbooks—it’s a path toward global citizenship and meaningful contribution.
Tursynbekova U.,
Uzakbayeva Z.,
Abdizhappar A.
Foreign language Department
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