Today, D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University (EKTU) hosted a briefing by the Chair of the Management Board – Rector, Saule Zhadygerovna Rakhmetullina, dedicated to summarizing the university’s performance and outlining its strategic development priorities. The event was attended by representatives of the media, government bodies, partner enterprises, public organizations, faculty members, students, and parents.
In her report, Saule Zhadygerovna emphasized that D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University has confidently strengthened its position as one of Kazakhstan’s leading engineering universities by combining academic excellence, innovation-driven growth, and a strong social mission. As of the end of 2024, the student population reached 6,518, increasing to 7,524 by 2025. Graduate employment rates remain consistently high at 96%. The number of international students increased from 70 in 2022 to 181 in 2024, and in the new academic year is expected to reach 215 students from 16 countries. Currently, 48% of faculty members hold academic degrees, while 21% are industry practitioners. A total of 3,210 students completed courses through Coursera, earning 5,451 international certificates. Ten educational programs and 67 international faculty members are involved in international projects such as Erasmus+, Horizon Europe, DAAD, and BMBF.
EKTU ranked 1st in Kazakhstan and 97th worldwide in the UI GreenMetric ranking and was recognized as a national leader in environmental performance, graduate employability, and innovation activity. The university is actively developing its research and innovation agenda: R&D revenues accounted for 33% of the total science budget, marking a record-high result in recent years. In 2024, the Industrial AI Competence Center was launched, the Kazakh-German Institute of Science and Technology was established, and the Altai Technopark was revitalized as a regional hub for science, education, and business. Projects are being implemented in medical engineering, reverse engineering, energy-efficient technologies, digital design, and artificial intelligence.
The university consistently advances its sustainable development and digital transformation policies. EKTU has been recognized as a leader in the category “Green University of Kazakhstan”, established a Sustainable Development Office, and supports the operation of seven eco-clubs. With the support of the German Embassy, the Alexander von Humboldt Center was opened, serving as a platform for international research in ecology and climate innovation.
A key strategic priority for the university is digitalization and the integration of artificial intelligence. EKTU launched the Industrial AI Competence Center, where intelligent industrial solutions are being developed, and is implementing the Digital Campus project, which includes a proctoring system, a Telegram bot for students, the iGPA module, and AI-based analytical platforms. In 2024, new educational programs in artificial intelligence and digital technologies were developed and introduced, including the interuniversity program “Artificial Intelligence” in cooperation with AЭжBU and KATU. More than 57 students completed training under the Huawei ICT Academy, while university faculty members obtained Huawei Certified Instructor credentials.
Within its development strategy, the university is implementing several key initiatives, including the advancement of industrial intelligence and digitalization, international integration and expansion of double-degree programs, increasing the share of applied research and technology transfer, implementing green solutions and sustainability projects, and fostering students’ engineering and civic culture based on the “Tolyq Adam” (Holistic Human) concept.
Saule Zhadygerovna noted that EKTU is a university that integrates engineering, innovation, and humanistic values, shaping a new generation of engineers capable of building the future of Kazakhstan.
The rector’s report was positively received by the briefing participants. Representatives of partner enterprises highlighted the high level of graduate training and the university’s close cooperation with the regional industrial sector. Members of the public and the Council of Veterans of the East Kazakhstan Region expressed appreciation for the university’s contribution to youth development, volunteerism, and patriotic initiatives.
The briefing confirmed that D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University is confidently implementing its strategy of sustainable development, digital transformation, and international recognition, remaining a key pillar of engineering education in Kazakhstan.
