Today, Abai University hosted a discussion focused on the ideas expressed by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in his interview published in Turkistan newspaper. The meeting addressed key issues of youth policy, patriotic education, and Abai’s concept of the “Holistic Person” (Tolyk Adam).

Based on these priorities, the university approved the main directions of its educational and upbringing work aimed at fostering patriotism, national values, and moral development grounded in the philosophy of the “Holistic Person.” Vice-Rector for Social Development Maksat Zhakhau outlined the key tasks to be implemented in the coming period.

The President’s interview at the beginning of the year served as an open dialogue that clearly defined pressing social issues and the main priorities of state policy. Topics such as artificial intelligence, science and education, and social development were also highlighted. Particular emphasis was placed on instilling patriotism in the younger generation, strengthening national values, and elevating Abai’s “Holistic Person” doctrine as a cornerstone of moral integrity. Accordingly, Abai University’s youth policy aligns with the strategic priorities set by the Head of State.

“Abai University’s development strategy is based on the concept of the ‘Holistic Person.’ In his interview, the President emphasized that this principle forms the foundation of societal development. All initiatives should aim to implement state policy and foster a just society and honest citizens. The principles of ‘Law and Order,’ ‘Clean Kazakhstan,’ and ‘Honest Citizen’ must become the three pillars of youth education. After analyzing last year’s results, we will develop the 2026 action plan based on these values. To strengthen patriotic education among students, we will continue the University Mentorship School, a tradition rooted in the legacy of Akhmet Baitursynuly,” said Vice-Rector Maksat Zhakhau.

Speaking on the development of students’ knowledge and intellectual potential in artificial intelligence, Umirzak Musilim, Deputy Dean for Social and Educational Affairs of the Faculty of Mathematics, Physics and Informatics, shared his views.

“As someone working in the field of education, I was particularly interested in the President’s emphasis on human capital development, enhancing intellectual potential, and nurturing responsible, modern-minded citizens. As noted by the President, the core of modernization lies in an educated, competitive generation rooted in national values. Mathematics, physics, and informatics are the foundation of technological development and digitalization. The integration of innovation, science, and education contributes not only to students’ professional growth but also to their civic responsibility,” he said.

The President has declared 2026 the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence, a decision expected to give new momentum to national progress in this area. Serik Bakirov, Deputy Dean for Educational Affairs of the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Geography, highlighted the growing role of AI in scientific research.

“The President set a clear goal for Kazakhstan to become a digital power. Artificial intelligence technologies enhance quality of life and have become a key driver of civilization. In natural sciences, AI is widely used for statistical analysis, data identification, and research reviews. However, it is essential to cultivate a responsible culture of AI usage among students and ensure its effective and ethical application,” he noted.

Adding to the discussion, Sultan Bodan, Deputy Dean for Social and Educational Affairs of the Faculty of Arts, emphasized the importance of balancing technological advancement with the human factor and digital literacy.

“Legislative and institutional frameworks for AI development are taking shape, including the establishment of advisory bodies, adoption of laws, and implementation of infrastructure projects. However, as AI is introduced, the human factor must remain central. Technology should serve society, and training educated, responsible, and digitally literate professionals will remain a key priority,” he said.

Medet Azanbayev, Deputy Dean for Educational Affairs of the Faculty of History and Law, stressed the growing responsibility placed on universities in shaping youth values.

“The President’s reflections on youth education, alongside artificial intelligence, left a strong impression on me. Fostering patriotism, instilling national values, and developing digital competencies are crucial. Beyond training professional educators, we bear great responsibility for nurturing their moral and national identity,” he stated.

At the conclusion of the discussion, the Department of Social and Youth Policy approved the 2026 action plan. Specific tasks were assigned to implement projects aligned with the priorities outlined in the President’s interview. As the country’s first university, Abai University reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening moral education while adapting future educators to modern technologies.

Abai University Media Center