An international forum titled “Endowments. Alumni. Patrons” was held in Astana. The event was dedicated to the development of higher education, strengthening the role of alumni within the strategic development of universities, and expanding international cooperation.

The forum brought together public figures, representatives of higher education institutions, Kazakhstani and international experts in higher education, major entrepreneurs and philanthropists, as well as representatives of charitable and donor initiatives. The forum focused on reviewing international experience in university engagement with alumni, donors, and patrons, and discussing current approaches to the development of endowment funds.

A congratulatory message from the Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Sayasat Nurbek, was delivered by the Head of the Ministry’s Office, Madiyar Kozhakhmet. In his address, the minister highlighted new approaches and strategic directions for the development of the higher education system. He emphasized that in the context of globalization, the competitiveness of universities depends not only on the quality of education but also on their financial sustainability and academic freedom.

In addition, presentations were delivered by Marina Alexio, Director of International Initiatives at the University of Minnesota; Farhad Kuanganov, Chairman of the Board of the National Association of Endowment Funds of Kazakhstan and Advisor to the Minister; Susan Holter, Director of Development at the College of Education and Human Development of the University of Minnesota; and other participants.

Bolatbek Nurbatyrov, Head of the Alumni Association of Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University and Director of the corporate foundation “Abai Endowment Fund,” also participated in the forum, sharing experience and presenting key information on endowment funds. The meeting, which gives a strong impetus to the development of the endowment institution in Kazakhstan, included extensive discussions on sustainable financing of education and science.

At the conclusion of the event, a memorandum of cooperation on the establishment of the Association of Endowment Funds of the Republic of Kazakhstan was signed.

Media Center “Abai University”