In today’s era of globalization, education should not be limited to the mere transmission of information. It must focus on shaping a person’s inner world, character, and life principles. In this context, the newly formed partnership between SDU University and the University of Birmingham marks a milestone in elevating education in Kazakhstan to a new level.

The University of Birmingham is one of the most prestigious higher education institutions in the UK. According to the 2025 QS World University Rankings, it ranks 84th globally and is also listed among the top 150 universities in the Times Higher Education and Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU). Moreover, it is a member of the Russell Group, an elite association of the UK’s top research universities, known for their excellence in research, teaching, and global influence. The university proudly counts 11 Nobel Prize laureates in its history.

Values as the Core of Quality Education

A delegation led by the Rector of SDU University recently visited the Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues, established at the University of Birmingham. The centre is a pioneering research institution focused on the study and implementation of character, values, and moral virtues. Its main mission is to explore and foster the human qualities essential for personal and societal flourishing. The Jubilee Centre is known for not only conducting theoretical research but also for influencing educational policy and practice.

A Golden Bridge Between Two Universities

SDU University plans to open a value-based education research center within its Faculty of Pedagogy and Humanities, modeled after the Jubilee Centre. This initiative represents a significant turning point in the university’s history.

Previously, the “Education-Innovation” International Public Foundation also signed a memorandum with the University of Birmingham to promote value-based education. As part of this cooperation, a delegation from Birmingham visited Kazakhstan and became acquainted with SDU University’s practices. The guests gave high praise to the university’s academic and social initiatives.

What is Character Education?

In short, it is a system that nurtures not only academic success but also moral values, personal integrity, responsibility, and a strong inner character. Although many leading schools in Kazakhstan place great emphasis on moral education, there is a lack of research and methodological systems in this area. In contrast, Western countries have well-defined standards, tools, and indicators for character education.

SDU aims to adapt and deepen the Jubilee Centre’s approach for Kazakhstan.

Muhammedali Ibragimov, Vice-Rector for Social Affairs, and co-author of the value-based education concept:

“Our visit to the Jubilee Centre reminded us that the true essence of education lies in shaping a person’s moral and personal character. ‘Character’ is one’s inner integrity, ‘virtues’ are the noble traits that define it, and ‘values’ form the belief system that upholds them. The Jubilee Centre develops character education as a harmony of these three layers. We view this partnership not just as a moral initiative, but as an integrated system that unites knowledge and values. SDU faculty are already taking part in international courses and online master’s programs in this area. Plans include joint research projects and international conferences. Signing a memorandum with the Jubilee Centre is more than an inter-university agreement — it’s a crucial step toward shaping future generations and enhancing our national education system.”

Civic Responsibility and Human Identity

Within the framework of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), countries worldwide are striving to nurture individuals who not only possess technical knowledge but also embody strong human values. Such individuals can contribute to both national progress and global development.

SDU University’s partnership with the Jubilee Centre is a major international strategic decision. This collaboration has the potential to usher in systematic transformation in character education in Kazakhstan. By placing human values at the heart of academic knowledge, we can raise a generation of strong-spirited, responsible, and morally sound citizens.

Today, SDU faculty are actively participating in international conferences and professional development programs in collaboration with the University of Birmingham and the University of Oxford.

The partnership between SDU and the University of Birmingham is more than an academic agreement — it is a mission aimed at educating future generations not only to be knowledgeable but also to be spiritually enriched, kind-hearted, and authentic. We believe this bold initiative will bear fruit in the near future.