THE SECOND MODULE OF THE PROFESSIONAL TRAINING SERIES ON NARRATIVE THERAPY IN SOCIAL WORK HAS BEEN COMPLETED AT AL-FARABI KAZAKH NATIONAL UNIVERSITY

THE EVENT IS AIMED AT ADVANCING SDG 4 — “QUALITY EDUCATION” AND SDG 17 — “PARTNERSHIPS FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT,” AS WELL AS AT PROMOTING PRACTICE-ORIENTED HUMANITIES DISCIPLINES AND STRENGTHENING COLLABORATION BETWEEN THE ACADEMIC COMMUNITY AND PROFESSIONAL NETWORKS.

On October 8–9, 2025, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University hosted a professional training titled “Narrative Approach in Social Work,” aimed at developing competencies of specialists in psychology, counseling, and social work. The event took place in an atmosphere of interdisciplinary collaboration and became an important step in promoting contemporary humanistic approaches in the training of helping professionals.

The training was organized by the Department of Sociology and Social Work together with the Center for Sociological Research and Social Engineering, as well as the PolyU–KazNU Center for Sustainable Development in Central Asia, in collaboration between Al-Farabi Kazakh National University and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. The event is dedicated to the implementation of SDG 4 («Quality Education») and SDG 17 («Partnerships for Sustainable Development»). The training brought together professors, practicing social workers, psychologists, doctoral students, master’s students, and researchers interested in integrating narrative therapy methods into educational programs and professional practice.

The purpose of the event was to deepen the participants’ mastery of narrative counseling methods focused on supporting individuals through the reconstruction of personal and social stories.

During the two-day program held on October 8–9, participants became familiar with the key concepts of narrative therapy. Particular attention was given to topics such as the map of the narrative process, creating alternative storylines, restoring meaningful social connections, and using creative forms of communication, as well as music therapy as a tool for emotional self-expression.

The training format included lectures, group discussions, case analyses, and practical exercises. Participants presented their own professional cases, discussed the possibilities of applying narrative techniques in working with various client groups, and received expert recommendations.

At the end of the program, a certificate awarding ceremony took place, where participants were recognized for their activity, engagement, and high level of preparation.

The training emphasized Al-Farabi Kazakh National University’s commitment to developing practice-oriented humanities and strengthening cooperation between academia and professional communities.

Organizers: Center for Sociological Research and Social Engineering, A.A. Saymasaeyeva, D.A. Aryn.