Utebayev University Launches New Initiatives in AI and Digitalization

In his Address, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized the strategic importance of digitalization and the development of artificial intelligence. In line with this direction, Utebayev University is launching new initiatives, opening a cyber range, and intensifying efforts to integrate artificial intelligence into the educational process.

In his speech to the nation, President Tokayev underlined the need to focus on AI and digitalization, stressing that profound digital transformation is essential to addressing the country’s pressing challenges. He stated: “If we fully harness the potential of artificial intelligence, we will give a powerful boost to the knowledge economy. It is vital to build partnerships with leading international companies and to train qualified specialists.”

Accordingly, S. Utebayev Atyrau University of Oil and Gas (Utebayev University) has also launched a series of new initiatives. As part of Digital Week, the university hosted a joint roundtable with Innopolis University (Russia) on the topic “Integrating Artificial Intelligence and Digital Technologies into the Education System.”

In her speech, Rector Gulzada Shakulikova highlighted the importance of adopting digital technologies and artificial intelligence in education.

The roundtable brought together Ivan Nikanov, Director of the Institute of Artificial Intelligence at Innopolis University; Ekaterina Galikhanova, Director of the Institute of Continuing Education; Ayrat Ismagilov, Head of IT Department at Schlumberger; Askar Aldan, Head of JasUP; Raikhan Suleimenova, Dean of the Faculty of Oil and Gas at Utebayev University; and Shynar Kodanova, Dean of the Faculty of IT. The speakers shared their expertise and discussed the potential of artificial intelligence and digital technologies.

The presentations addressed key issues, including the modernization of academic programs, training of new specialties, application of generative AI in the oil and gas sector, cybersecurity, predictive analytics, and the future of artificial intelligence.

During the open discussion, participants explored effective ways to integrate AI into education and developed concrete proposals.

As a result of the roundtable, practical steps were outlined to advance digital learning technologies and to introduce artificial intelligence into the academic process.

Furthermore, Utebayev University launched another important initiative in the field of digital education and modern technologies. The university signed an agreement with Innopolis University, one of Russia’s leading IT institutions, to establish a cyber range.

The new cyber range will serve as a training ground for students in modern cybersecurity and as a hub for IT research projects, contributing to the preparation of highly skilled professionals demanded by the labor market. This partnership marks a new milestone in the university’s innovative development.

In his Address, the President emphasized the strategic importance of digitalization, AI development, and cybersecurity. Utebayev University’s initiative represents a clear example of practical steps being taken in this direction.