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A roundtable discussion titled “We Are Against Bullying and Cyberbullying” was held at the Department of Plasma Physics, Nanotechnology and Computer Physics of the Faculty of Physics and Technology at 91��ý Kazakh National University. The event was aimed at fostering a safe psychological environment among students and strengthening the culture of respect and academic integrity within the university community. The roundtable was organized by department curators — Assistant Professor A.U. Utegenov, Associate Professor S.A. Orazbayev, and first-year doctoral students B. Kyrykbay and Sh. Anuarbek. The event brought together third-year students of the educational program “Physics and Nanotechnology,” faculty members, and academic advisors.

The primary objective of the event was to raise students’ awareness of the issues of bullying and cyberbullying, promote constructive communication, and cultivate an academic culture based on mutual respect, tolerance, and responsibility. In the context of the widespread use of digital technologies and social media, cyberbullying has become an increasingly relevant issue, particularly within youth and student communities. Therefore, special attention during the meeting was devoted to the prevention of psychological pressure, the creation of an atmosphere of trust, and the promotion of a supportive and healthy learning environment.

During the roundtable discussion, participants examined the concepts of bullying and cyberbullying, their key characteristics, forms of manifestation, and potential consequences for students’ psychological well-being. Real-life situations occurring within the university environment were discussed, including psychological pressure within academic groups, ridicule or offensive comments on social media platforms, and inappropriate criticism of academic or research work. Particular attention was given to hidden forms of bullying within STEM environments, such as academic elitism, language discrimination, and gender stereotypes, which may negatively affect students’ academic motivation and self-confidence.

The discussion also highlighted the role of the academic community in preventing conflicts and maintaining a culture of mutual respect. Faculty members and doctoral students emphasized the importance of open dialogue between students and instructors, early identification of problematic situations, and the development of a supportive atmosphere within student groups.

The practical component of the roundtable included case-based tasks, where participants analyzed different scenarios related to bullying and cyberbullying. Students discussed possible responses and developed action strategies for situations involving psychological pressure. Participants were also informed about mechanisms for protecting their rights, including documenting evidence, referring to the University Academic Code, and seeking support from academic advisors, faculty members, or university psychologists.

At the conclusion of the roundtable, participants emphasized that creating a safe educational environment is a shared responsibility of all members of the academic community. Students noted the importance of mutual respect, support, and tolerance within the learning process, as well as the need to actively counteract any forms of discrimination or psychological pressure.

The event also contributes to the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In particular, the initiative supports SDG 3 — Good Health and Well-being, as it promotes students’ psychological health and emotional well-being. Discussions addressing gender stereotypes align with SDG 5 — Gender Equality, while efforts to prevent discrimination and social exclusion correspond to SDG 10 — Reduced Inequalities. Furthermore, fostering a culture of academic integrity, fairness, and mutual respect reflects the principles of SDG 16 — Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, which aims to promote inclusive and just social institutions.

Thus, the roundtable discussion became an important component of the faculty’s educational and mentoring activities aimed at creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive academic environment for students.