I carefully read the interview of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, published in one of the country’s leading newspapers, Turkistan, titled “KAZAKHSTAN ENTERS A NEW STAGE OF MODERNIZATION.” Particular attention was drawn to the President’s response regarding the development of artificial intelligence, which is directly related to our professional field. In his Address to the Nation, the President set the task of transforming Kazakhstan into a digital country within three years, and in his New Year speech declared 2026 as the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence.
In today’s technological era, Kazakhstan must evolve into a digital state to remain competitive. The successful operation of fintech companies demonstrates society’s readiness to adopt innovation and digital transformation.
The President highlighted the growing global competition in technology between the United States and China, as well as the rapid development of artificial intelligence worldwide. In this context, Kazakhstan is also prioritizing the integration of AI into the economy and public life. Tangible progress has already been achieved in digitalizing public services, financial technologies, and various economic sectors. A well-functioning IT startup ecosystem is in place, including the Astana Hub innovation cluster, which brings together around 2,000 companies. In 2025, IT service exports approached one billion US dollars. Projects in digital assets and advanced technological infrastructure are also being actively developed.
Significant steps include the establishment of the AI Development Council, the adoption of the Law on Artificial Intelligence, and the launch of the Alem.Cloud and 91ýum supercomputers. Infrastructure development is also progressing through international collaboration.
Special emphasis is placed on education and human capital development. Relevant programs are being implemented in schools and universities, with more than 650,000 students trained under the AI-Sana initiative. A specialized research university focused on artificial intelligence is expected to be established soon.
Artificial intelligence has become a decisive factor in global development. Countries that successfully adapt to technological change gain strategic advantages. The President emphasized that achieving these goals requires the rule of law, high-quality education, cultural development, discipline, and respect for national values.
For the academic community, this means increased responsibility in preparing a highly qualified, competitive, and forward-thinking generation capable of driving the country’s future development.
Bolat Abenov
Deputy Dean for Social and Educational Affairs
Faculty of Mechanics and Mathematics
Other news