On October 11, a delegation from the United Kingdom led by Lord John Alderdice visited a number of educational institutions in Kazakhstan.

As part of efforts to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries, the event was attended by Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan Sayasat Nurbek, British Ambassador to Kazakhstan Sally Axworthy, Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the United Kingdom Magzhan Ilyassov, and UK Regional Director for Trade and Investment in Kazakhstan Amandeep Sangha.

During the visit, the delegation became acquainted with the activities of Coventry University Kazakhstan and Cardiff University Kazakhstan, whose establishment marked a significant milestone in the development of international academic cooperation and the strengthening of partnership relations between Kazakhstan and the United Kingdom.

Coventry University’s branch was officially opened in Astana in 2024, becoming the first British university to launch educational activities in Kazakhstan. The university offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in business, international relations, economics, finance, and computer science, as well as MBA Global Business and Executive MBA programs. Coventry University Kazakhstan integrates modern educational technologies and innovative teaching methods, fostering an academic environment that meets international standards.

In 2025, the university launched a scholarship initiative providing around 200 educational grants for students in priority fields. The second phase of campus development is also underway, including the construction of modern facilities with laboratories, a library, and student housing.

Cardiff University’s branch, officially opened on September 3, 2025, in Astana, is the university’s first overseas campus and a unique project of its kind in Central Asia. Cardiff University Kazakhstan offers undergraduate programs in Computer Science, Business Management, Civil Engineering, and Exploration Geology, as well as a foundation course in STEM and business disciplines. Instruction is conducted entirely in English, with participation from faculty members of the main university in Cardiff. Students are eligible for academic scholarships and grant programs designed to enhance access to British education and develop Kazakhstan’s human capital.

The meetings addressed prospects for further bilateral cooperation in education and science, including the expansion of academic mobility between the two countries, the implementation of joint research projects, and the introduction of innovative and digital solutions in the educational process.

Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan Sayasat Nurbek emphasized that the opening of branches of leading British universities in Kazakhstan contributes to the creation of an international educational space based on the principles of academic excellence, innovation, and global integration. He noted that developing strategic partnerships with UK universities is a key factor in strengthening human capital, enhancing the competitiveness of Kazakhstan’s higher education system, and expanding the international recognition of Kazakhstani diplomas.

Lord John Alderdice’s visit underscored the high level of mutual trust and interest between Kazakhstan and the United Kingdom in further strengthening cooperation in education, science, and innovation. The implementation of joint initiatives with leading British universities will promote the establishment of sustainable academic ties, the advancement of scientific potential, and the strengthening of Kazakhstan’s status as a regional academic center of quality and modern education.