On 12 October, MIND at Maqsut Narikbayev University signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Qazaq Independent Directors Association (QID).
This partnership paves the way for the implementation of joint projects and collaborative research initiatives aimed at enhancing efficiency across various sectors. QID’s mission is to support Kazakhstani joint-stock companies and other organisations in improving their performance and standards of corporate governance. This is achieved by strengthening the work of management bodies through the adoption of best practices in corporate directorship and upholding high professional and ethical standards for independent directors.
On the same day, MIND MNU formalised a Memorandum of Cooperation with the International Center for Green Technologies and Investment Projects.
This collaboration will focus on joint projects in the fields of green technologies, sustainable development, and investment initiatives. The partnership is expected to contribute meaningfully to advancing environmental sustainability and addressing key societal challenges.
Additionally, MIND MNU signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the National Holding Company.
The agreement opens new opportunities for joint research and projects, while also strengthening the scientific and technological capabilities of both parties. This cooperation marks an important step in the development and implementation of forward-looking initiatives, supporting the integration of innovative technologies and solutions for the benefit of society.
On 12 October 2024, Maqsut Narikbayev University hosted the MIND Press Breakfast, an event that brought together journalists and media experts for a dynamic exchange of knowledge and ideas.
As part of the training session titled “Sociology of Fact-Checking in the Post-Truth Era”, participants explored effective strategies for combating misinformation and mastering fact-checking techniques. The session also highlighted the growing importance of data journalism, emphasising how data-driven approaches are becoming essential for producing accurate and objective reporting.
A special segment of the event was dedicated to presenting MIND’s research projects, showcasing the Centre’s contributions to media literacy, public policy, and academic inquiry.
The event concluded with an award ceremony recognising the contributions and engagement of participants.
We extend our sincere gratitude to all attendees for their active participation and commitment to advancing the field of modern journalism.
On 7 October 2024, Maqsut Narikbayev University hosted a round table titled “Approaches to Legal Regulation of the Labour Sphere in the Era of Artificial Intelligence and Other Digital Technologies” at MIND, held within the Labour Law Days of the Research School of Labour Law.
The discussion brought together experts to explore critical topics at the intersection of labour law and technological advancement, including:
- Legal regulation of artificial intelligence through the lens of legislative processes: how can legal reforms adapt the world of work to emerging technologies, and what risks should labour market stakeholders be aware of?;
- Key challenges to labour law arising from automation and AI, including the introduction of technologies such as smart workwear;
- Improving the procedures for assigning social benefits using IT solutions;
- The impact of AI on labour law in the context of platform-based employment: international regulatory experience, current gaps in Kazakhstan’s legal framework, and prospects for development;
- Emerging issues related to the interaction of mediation and artificial intelligence in pre-trial and judicial settlement of labour disputes;
- Strengthening employee protections and guarantees in labour legislation concerning the use of AI.
The round table concluded with an open discussion, during which participants examined international legal initiatives such as the EU Artificial Intelligence Act and the Directive on Improving Working Conditions in Platform Work. These exchanges offered valuable insights into the development of Kazakhstan’s labour legislation in the context of digital transformation.
25 civil servants from 10 central government agencies completed a training seminar at Maqsut Narikbayev University, held on the premises of the Applied Research and Analytical Centre MIND. The seminar was conducted as part of the programme-targeted funding for research and research-technical projects supported by the Committee of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
The seminar focused on the research and methodological substantiation of civil service development processes and the transformation of government agency activities within the framework of constructing a New Kazakhstan.
Participants explored the key features of the new model of public service and the core principles of Good Governance. They developed practical skills in strategic and project management, leadership, and applying human-centric approaches in the design and effective implementation of government initiatives.
On 2 October, MIND hosted an excursion for participants of the Enactus World Cup 2024, offering them an opportunity to experience the atmosphere of Maqsut Narikbayev University and learn about its distinctive strengths.
The visit brought together scientists, researchers, and students, who gained valuable insights into the university’s activities and explored projects focused on promoting sustainable development.
Participants also shared their impressions and presented the initiatives they are implementing in their respective countries. The event served as an excellent platform for the exchange of experiences and ideas.
On 26 September, the International Project Management Association (IPMA) presented the book “Projectification of Society: The Case of Kazakhstan” at the prestigious Organization, Technology and Management Conference held in Šibenik, Croatia.
This publication represents more than a scholarly work — it offers a comprehensive reflection on Kazakhstan’s path toward sustainable development through the lens of project management. The book showcases Kazakhstan’s commitment to excellence and its contribution to global progress. It explores how project management is transforming key sectors in the country — from government and business to education and civil society — highlighting the evolution, challenges, solutions, and lessons that may serve as a valuable reference for the international community.
Kazakhstan is proud to be the first country featured in this international book series, underscoring its leading role in the advancement of project management on the global stage.
Looking ahead, the book will be presented at upcoming high-level events, including the IPMA World Congress in Cape Town and the SDG Impact Forum, where Kazakhstan’s experience will be shared with a global audience of experts and practitioners.
The international presentation of this publication is not only a significant achievement for MIND and Maqsut Narikbayev University, but also a milestone in promoting Kazakhstan’s academic excellence, research capabilities, and openness to international cooperation.
On 13 September, Maqsut Narikbayev University and the Committee on Legal Statistics and Special Accounts of the Prosecutor General’s Office of the Republic of Kazakhstan signed a Memorandum of Cooperation, aimed at strengthening collaboration in the fields of science and education.
Key areas of cooperation include:
- Joint analytical studies and research projects;
- Academic mobility for students, undergraduates, doctoral candidates, and faculty;
- Exchange of information, publications, and educational materials;
- Transfer of statistical data with full respect for the confidentiality of personal data and sensitive information.
As part of the signing ceremony, the MIND Research and Analytical Centre presented the results of two recent studies:
- “Control and Supervision in Kazakhstan”
- “Comprehensive Analysis of the Spatial Distribution of Minor Thefts and Violent Crimes in Astana and Almaty”
These findings sparked strong interest from the Prosecutor General’s Office, which acknowledged the value of further collaboration in these areas.
The signing of this Memorandum marks an important step towards evidence-based decision-making, creating a solid foundation for the integration of academic research into the work of the Prosecutor General’s Office.
On 4 September, a meeting of the SDG 2 working group on “Zero Hunger” was held under the chairmanship of Kunsulu Zakarya, Adviser to the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan on Science and Innovation.
Despite operating within a short timeframe, the working group has already developed a number of practical proposals aimed at advancing the country’s agro-industrial complex. An analytical note outlining key areas for development has been prepared, and specific instructions were issued, including implementation timelines.
More than 15 experts are involved in the working group’s activities. The meeting was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Science and Higher Education, Ministry of National Economy, Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace Industry.
The SDG 2: Zero Hunger team will continue its active efforts to support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals at both national and regional levels.
On July 9, 2024, the leaders of the MIND Accelerator teams presented the interim results of their work at a meeting with Maulen Sagatkhanuly Ashimbayev, Chairman of the Senate of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
During the meeting, the design and research teams of the Accelerator shared their problem analyses and outlined key focus areas:
- Provision of medical services in the penitentiary system
- Development of inclusive education policies in higher education
- Creation of a meat production cluster and development of agrotourism in the Akmola region
- Formation of a national industrial information system
- Support for mechanical engineering through the implementation of a national information platform
- Legislative improvements in the field of creative industries
- Decarbonization of the Burabay resort area
- Addressing corruption in educational institutions
- Reducing corruption risks in institutions and in the development of legislation
- Enhancing the efficiency of maslikhats through digital tools and deputy training
The teams presented proposed solutions and their interim achievements in each direction. At the conclusion of the meeting, they received feedback from the Chairman of the Senate and discussed next steps for the implementation of their initiatives.
The MIND Accelerator is a joint initiative of the Public Project Office of the Senate of the Republic of Kazakhstan and Maqsut Narikbayev University (MNU). Launched on May 3, 2024, the pilot project aims to contribute to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The project’s technical closure is scheduled for August 9, 2024.
All work within the Accelerator is carried out on a voluntary basis by cross-sectoral teams that include representatives of government bodies, businesses, academia, NGOs, media, and international organisations.
Participants include:
- Senators and maslikhat deputies
- Graduates of the Senate Analytics School
- MNU faculty
- Staff of the Akimat of the Akmola Region (the pilot region)
- Experts from the UNDP and other international organisations
- Business community representatives
Using the proprietary MIND methodology, teams conducted analyses and developed solutions based on the GAP analysis approach. This allowed them not only to assess the current state of affairs, but also to propose concrete steps toward sustainable and innovative development.
On 27 June 2024, the SDG No. 2 “Hunger Eradication” project and research team was officially launched as part of the MIND Accelerator, uniting the efforts of leading experts and organisations in this crucial field.
This notable event brought together representatives of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Zhangir Khan West Kazakhstan Agrarian and Technical University, the National Agrarian Scientific and Educational Centre, as well as other interested institutions. Particular emphasis was placed on the contribution of agricultural scientists, who proposed innovative approaches and technologies to support the sustainable development of the agricultural sector.
The meeting fostered open dialogue and collaborative work on strategies aimed not only at preserving but also enhancing conditions in the sector, thereby contributing to the eradication of hunger and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
