Today in Almaty, the International Student Forum, jointly organized with China’s Shanghai Normal University (SHNU) and taking place from September 16 to 18, was officially opened at Abai University. The international forum, titled “The Value of Education in Ensuring a Sustainable Future,” is organized by Abai University, Shanghai Normal University (SHNU), China, and the UNESCO Teacher Education Centre (TEC).

The main objective of the International Forum is to strengthen scientific and educational cooperation among partner organizations from Central Asian countries, broaden students’ understanding of the values underpinning education systems, and improve the quality of teacher training to ensure sustainable education. The forum brings together future educators from Central Asian countries and China, providing a platform to discuss the role of education in shaping a sustainable future, exchange experiences, and promote international student cooperation.

The forum was officially opened by Aigul Iskakova, Vice-Rector for Strategic Development and Internationalization at Abai University. Li Ruimiao, UNESCO Teacher Education Centre (TEC) Liaison Representative for Central Asia, also addressed the participants and extended her best wishes for the successful work of the forum.

The forum’s program covers innovations in education and intercultural dialogue, as well as ways to bridge university theory and school practice. Participants also discussed new approaches to teacher training, the use of artificial intelligence and digital technologies as tools for transforming education, and key issues in inclusive education.

Participants discussed global challenges facing education and proposed innovative approaches to developing a new educational architecture aimed at building a sustainable future. The forum featured rapid presentations, followed by the development of practical recommendations aimed at enhancing the quality and sustainability of teacher education systems in Central Asia and China.

Representatives of UNESCO, Shanghai Normal University, and the Teacher Education Centre (TEC) delivered presentations during the forum. Young researchers presented their research findings and exchanged views on contemporary trends in education.

The program also featured an intellectual game entitled “Sustainable Development Goals: A Youth Dialogue on the Future,” as well as a Global Open Talk discussion on “Student Life in Different Countries.” Young people from different countries shared their academic, social, and cultural experiences. In addition, a roundtable discussion was held to explore opportunities for further developing cooperation between Abai University and Shanghai Normal University.

During the meeting, the key areas for joint programs for students and faculty members were identified. These included organizing student academic mobility at SHNU, participating in international research projects, and preparing joint articles for peer-reviewed academic journals.

Another area of cooperation will be the organization of international student research projects and competitions. The parties also considered introducing micro-credential courses for future teachers into educational programs. These initiatives are expected to contribute to the development of students’ research competencies, broaden their experience in the international academic environment, and strengthen their professional networks.

For faculty members, the agenda included organizing professional development courses, preparing joint research articles for Scopus-, Web of Science-, and other peer-reviewed publications, involving faculty members in grant projects supported by the city of Shanghai and SHNU, and developing professional development courses focused on the Sustainable Development Goals.

The parties also discussed the possibility of developing dual-degree programs in such areas as UNESCO expert training, comparative education, artificial intelligence, and digital education. They plan to prioritize joint research projects addressing educational issues in China and Central Asia.

During the three-day event, the delegates will also visit educational and cultural institutions in Almaty, including Almaty Management University, Kazakh National Women’s Teacher Training University, and NGS primary and secondary schools.

The International Student Forum, which brings together future educators, will be held in Shanghai next year.

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