Today, the Abai University hosted the final methodological seminar of mentor-researchers on the topic “The Transformational Potential of Mentoring in Higher Education: Experience, Results, and Prospects.” Within the framework of the meeting organized under the slogan “One research — one change,” a new research culture of diploma projects was presented, and the results of initiatives based on Action Research and Lesson Study were reviewed.

The event brought together university leadership, deans, mentor-researchers, academic supervisors, faculty members, and representatives of educational organizations. The program began with a poster exhibition titled “One research – one change.” The poster gallery showcased new directions of student diploma research, findings from exploratory studies, and reflective materials. Each project systematically presented a pedagogical problem, research question, stages of implementation, interventions introduced, and concrete outcomes.

The Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs of the Abai University, Banu Narbekova, opened the seminar and emphasized the importance of developing a research culture in higher education.

– In the current context, a diploma thesis should not be viewed merely as a final academic work. It must become an effective tool for identifying, studying, and improving specific pedagogical problems. Action Research and Lesson Study approaches help future professionals develop analytical competencies and enhance educational practice based on data. The mentor-researcher movement being implemented at the university is one of the key academic initiatives in this direction, – she stated.

The Head of the Center for Pedagogical Innovations and Action Research, Aiman Berikhanova, highlighted the role of the mentoring system in introducing innovative projects and raised key challenges in higher education. She noted that students’ difficulties in selecting diploma topics indicate insufficient research skills. It was also emphasized that the role of the academic supervisor is changing into that of a consultant who guides and supports students’ research journey.

During the event, results of school-level implementation were also presented. It was noted that student research conducted during teaching practice at School No. 72 in the Auezov District of Almaty has been integrated into the learning process and contributed to tangible achievements. To systematize the experience, an AI-based platform titled “Useful Insights” was introduced.

At the end of the session, active mentor-researchers were awarded, and the contributions of academic supervisors were recognized. Participants of the concluding meeting shared proposals for the next academic year and defined key directions for organizing and supporting research activities.

Media Center «Abai University»