The country’s first university, Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University, has served as an alma mater for generations of talented young people. Over its nearly century-long history, the university has trained more than 250,000 educators, making a significant contribution to the development of Kazakhstan’s education system. Its graduates have built successful careers not only in education, but also in culture and the humanities, the arts, and public service. This is evidenced by prominent public figures, poets and writers, entrepreneurs, and distinguished representatives of the arts who are widely known across Kazakhstan.

Abai University supports the abilities and creative aspirations of every student, creating an environment for their comprehensive development throughout their university years. At the heart of its mission to train future educators is the great Abai’s teaching of “Tolyk Adam” (“The Complete Person”), which has been adopted as the university’s strategic development concept. It is based on three principles: “Ystyq Qairat” — physical development, “Nurly Aqyl” — intellectual development, and “Zhylу Zhurek” — spiritual development.

As part of its youth policy, the university has 57 student organizations, including 35 creative associations, 10 sports clubs, 6 theatre groups, and 6 volunteer organizations. These organizations regularly implement projects and initiatives aimed at developing students’ creative potential, providing them with ample opportunities to participate actively in university life, showcase their talents, and bring their ideas to life.

During the 2025–2026 academic year, more than 80 major projects were organized, reaching an audience of over 38,000 people. Particular attention was given to the state programmes “Taza Kazakhstan,” “Law and Order,” and “Adal Azamat.” The events were held at university, city, and national levels and aimed to enhance young people’s cultural and information literacy, legal awareness, and environmental consciousness. In addition, extensive work was carried out to improve students’ social well-being, provide psychological support, increase youth civic engagement, and promote volunteering and civic responsibility. Beginning this year, the university has established a “School of Mentorship” involving 127 mentor-curators to provide social and legal support to young people taking their first steps into a new stage of life.

Overall, young people account for approximately one-third of Kazakhstan’s population, or more than 5.8 million people. Today, nearly 23,000 students are studying at Abai University. The university administration has created a supportive environment that enables young people not only to develop academically, but also to unlock their creative potential and turn innovative ideas into reality.

By bringing together quality education, advanced research, creativity, and innovation, Abai University creates the conditions for the younger generation to fully realize its potential. Supporting educated, active, and engaged young people who will shape the bright future of the country remains one of the university’s enduring and highest priorities.

“Abai University” Media Centre