On April 13, 2026, SDU University hosted the SSBL Research & Innovation Student Conference 2026, organized by the School of Social Sciences, Business and Law in collaboration with the SDU Central Asian Research Center.

The conference served as a platform for students to present their research in the fields of law, international relations, political science, journalism, and communications. The event brought together students, faculty members, and invited experts.

The conference opened with welcoming remarks by the Dean of the School of Social Sciences, Business and Law. The keynote session featured distinguished speakers:

• Prof. Dr. Jan-Friedrich Bruckermann (FOM University of Applied Sciences, Germany)
• Dr. Azian Muhamad Adzmi (KIMEP University)
• Dr. Galym Zhussipbek (SDU University)

Following the plenary session, parallel panels were held in the following tracks:

• Law
• International Relations & Political Science
• Journalism & Media

Participants presented research on a wide range of актуal topics, including digital law, artificial intelligence, international security, media, and society.

The conference fostered an engaging academic environment and provided students with valuable opportunities to develop their research and presentation skills.

On April 10–11, 2026, the SDU University successfully hosted the ICECCO 2026 (International Conference on Electronics, Communications and Computing Optimization). The large-scale scientific event was organized in a hybrid format, allowing participants to attend both offline and online. This approach enabled broad participation from both local and international researchers and contributed to strengthening global academic dialogue.

The conference covered key areas of modern science and technology. Participants presented research papers in the following sections: Computational Intelligence, Signal Processing, Electron Devices and Electronics, Industry Applications, Computers and Information Theory, and Communications.

Each research paper was presented in a 10-minute presentation followed by a 5-minute Q&A session, ensuring dynamic and engaging discussions.

On the first day of the conference (April 10), a total of 33 research papers were presented. Parallel sessions were held across several venues: Blue Hall (SDULIFE) hosted sessions on computational intelligence and signal processing; Workshop 205 focused on electronic devices and industry applications; and Workshop 204 covered computer science, information theory, and communications. The sessions were moderated by Mohammed Alaa Fadhil Al-Hadeethi.

During the conference, participants not only presented their research findings but also exchanged experiences, discussed future collaborations, and explored new scientific ideas. This contributed significantly to the development of international academic cooperation.

ICECCO 2026 served as an important platform for scientists, researchers, faculty members, and students to exchange knowledge, foster innovation, and expand professional networks.

On April 11–12, 2026, the Republican Subject Olympiad for university students was held at Nazarbayev University in Astana, where SDU University students achieved outstanding results.

In the mathematics competition, our university was represented by Oralbek Dauren, Nagashybek Muhammad, Zhanakhmetov Ansar, Ernest Regia, and Seidov Eldos, all of whom secured the honorable third place.

It should be noted that the team result is calculated based on the combined scores of the three best-performing students. According to this system, SDU University secured third place, following Nazarbayev University and Kazakh-British Technical University.

This achievement clearly demonstrates the high level of mathematical training, determination, and academic potential of our students.

The SDU University community congratulates the winners and wishes them continued success in their academic and scientific journey!

On April 9, 2026, SDU University hosted a delegation from one of Malaysia’s leading higher education institutions — Sultan Idris Education University. The university holds strong positions in global rankings, being placed within the 101–125 range in Education Studies according to the Times Higher Education (THE) ranking, and ranked 156th in the QS Asian University Rankings.

As part of the visit, representatives of the university held an official meeting with the leadership of SDU University to discuss opportunities for bilateral cooperation.

The main objective of the meeting was to strengthen partnership between the two institutions, particularly by expanding academic mobility programs for students and faculty, as well as initiating joint research projects and grant initiatives.

The parties discussed prospects for implementing joint initiatives aimed at enhancing international collaboration and academic exchange.

This meeting marked an important step in expanding SDU University’s international partnerships and strengthening its position in the global academic community.

A round table dedicated to the scientific and practical foundations of the “Tolyk Adam” concept was held at SDU University with the participation of scholars. The event brought together prominent national researchers, university faculty members, and students.

In his opening remarks, Vice-Rector for Academic and Research Affairs Maksat Kalybek emphasized the importance of such academic gatherings. Dean of the School of Education and Humanities Dana Moldabayeva also delivered a welcoming speech and expressed her best wishes to the participants.

During the scientific session, a number of insightful presentations on the “Tolyk Adam” concept were delivered. The session began with a brief overview of the scholarly legacy of the renowned researcher Mekemtas Myrzakhmetov and his contributions to Abai studies.

Following this, Zhabal Shoiinbet, Director of the “Hakim Abai” Center, discussed the origins and current development of the “Tolyk Adam” concept. Associate Professor Maksat Alipkhan analyzed its structural components, while Associate Professor Murat Myrzakhmet shared practical applications of the concept in real life. PhD student Yerulan Assentayuly from Al-Farabi Kazakh National University highlighted the practical significance of the “Tolyk Adam” model.

In the next stage, participants were divided into groups and worked on dilemma-based tasks built around the concepts of “Mind,” “Heart,” “Will,” and “Justice.” Each group presented their findings through posters, leading to engaging discussions.

During the Q&A session, students and faculty members had the opportunity to ask questions and receive comprehensive answers from the scholars.

At the end of the event, the results of the group work were summarized, and the key scientific and practical outcomes of the round table were discussed. The Head of the Department expressed gratitude to the participating scholars, and the event concluded with a commemorative photo session.

The “Dauletten” Charitable Foundation announces the opening of applications for the “Bilimnin Zhuldyzy” scholarship competition. The project aims to support educated, active students who are in need of social assistance.

In 2026, a total of 200 students will receive a one-time scholarship of 100,000 KZT.

Eligibility requirements:

1. Must be a citizen of the Republic of Kazakhstan;
2. Must be a 1st–3rd year student of a college or university;
3. Must study full-time on a paid basis;
4. Must have good or excellent academic performance:
   – for universities GPA ≥ 2.5;
   – for colleges GPA ≥ 3.0;
5. Must belong to a social category (large family, low-income family, single-parent family, etc.).

Application procedure:

1. Applications are accepted from April 13 (09:00) to April 17 (23:59), 2026;
2. Applications must be submitted online via the official website www.dauletten.kz.

Required documents:

1. Copy of ID card;
2. Certificate from the educational institution;
3. Transcript or academic record;
4. Documents confirming social status;
5. Documents confirming achievements (certificates, diplomas);
6. A motivation letter (150–300 words) on the topic: “Why do I deserve this scholarship?”

The competition consists of several stages. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online interview in the second stage. Please note that incomplete applications will not be considered.

Detailed information is available on the official website.
Don’t miss this opportunity!

Representatives of SDU University, Andrey Bogdanchikov and Merarslan Meraliyev, took part in the latest episode of the PRO ERTEN podcast, where they discussed current issues in the fields of IT and education.

During the episode, the speakers highlighted the importance of effective use of artificial intelligence, the need to develop alongside technology, and the role of critical thinking in today’s world. They also shared insights on how to stand out in the market through intellectual potential and what skills are essential for future professionals.

This episode will be useful for anyone interested in the latest trends in IT and education. You can read more on the ERTEN Media website.

A large-scale educational event aimed at advancing science and education was held at SDU University, organized by the STEM Research Center. The event brought together around 140 school teachers, school principals, and students.

The opening ceremony featured a comprehensive program focused on the importance and future of STEM education. The first speaker, Umar Adam Ibrahim, PhD, delivered a presentation titled “Introduction of STEM,” highlighting key principles and global trends in STEM education.

The event also featured expert speakers, including Zhanyl Abilbek, PhD, Assistant Professor and Head of the Department of Natural Sciences Pedagogy, as well as Arailym Zhakypova, founder of AZ Advisory, PhD candidate in Media and Communications, and Master Mentor of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) Women in Business program. She presented on the topic “The Next Stage: Women Shaping the Future of Science in Kazakhstan.”

A key part of the program was the panel discussion on “The Future of STEM Education in Kazakhstan.” The panel included Assem Kaukénova, Director of the Science Department at SDU University; Gulzhan Akhmetova, Principal of the “Comfort School” in Kaskelen; Shynar Ryspaeva, marketer and co-founder of educational projects; and Ainur Bekbolatova, a graduate of Nazarbayev University, IB Biology teacher and MYP Coordinator.

During the discussion, participants explored the current state of STEM education in Kazakhstan, its development prospects over the next 10–15 years, as well as key opportunities and challenges. Particular attention was given to the role of schools and universities in preparing future STEM professionals, increasing women’s participation in STEM fields, and improving educational programs.

Speakers also shared insights on effective teaching methods in STEM, the impact of artificial intelligence and digital technologies on education, and the importance of an interdisciplinary approach. In addition, the discussion addressed the need to strengthen collaboration between academia, industry, and government.

At the end of the event, participants provided valuable advice to students planning careers in STEM and highlighted the key skills required for future scientists and engineers.

The event clearly demonstrated SDU University’s contribution to the development of STEM education and the formation of a modern educational ecosystem.

SDU University hosted Freedom Junior’s Day, an educational event organized by Freedom Holding Corp., dedicated to the fields of Data and Cybersecurity.

The event was held in a two-track parallel format, bringing together students, professionals, and industry experts to discuss modern approaches to data analytics and information security.

Data Track

As part of the Data track, experts from Freedom Holding Corp. and Freedom Ticketon presented practical cases of applying analytics and machine learning in corporate products.

The sessions covered:

• building product analytics — from raw data to business dashboards
• implementing analytics using the Amplitude platform
• approaches to working with features and metrics in product development
• applying Data Science and Machine Learning in insurance and corporate tasks
• the role of Data Engineers in enterprise infrastructure
• using AI tools, including Claude Code, in data engineering workflows

Security Track

The Cybersecurity track focused on modern practices for protecting digital services and infrastructure.

Experts from Freedom Holding Corp. covered the following topics:

• secure implementation of features in products with millions of users
• personal data protection and the career path of a Data Protection Officer (DPO)
• Blue Team practices and real-world attack and defense scenarios
• the impact of AI on the cybersecurity market and the transformation of junior roles

The event served as a platform for knowledge exchange between industry representatives and students, helping participants better understand the skills and technologies in demand in today’s IT companies.

We express our gratitude to Freedom Holding Corp. for the participation of experts and support of educational initiatives.

On March 28, 2026, the Shymkent Alumni Meetup 2026 was held in the city of Shymkent, bringing together graduates of SDU University. The event was attended by alumni from various faculties as well as university representatives.

The meeting was attended by the Rector of SDU University, Әлімжан Игенбаев, who highlighted the university’s achievements in recent years. He also spoke about the institution’s development strategy, ongoing transformations, future plans, and new initiatives, emphasizing efforts to enhance the quality of education, expand international cooperation, and support the alumni community. Particular attention was given to the importance of strengthening engagement with graduates.

The event provided alumni with a great opportunity to reminisce about their student years, reconnect with graduates from different cohorts, and expand their professional networks. The meetup was held in a warm and friendly atmosphere, offering an excellent platform for networking.

SDU University will continue to strengthen its ties with alumni and support their professional growth through such initiatives.