On February 18, a special workshop titled “Development of Double-Degree Education Programs” was held at the Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University. The event focused on systematizing the academic and regulatory frameworks for implementing double-degree programs, analyzing the university’s current experience, and developing practical proposals to improve related documentation.

A double-degree education program is an international format of education implemented through a joint curriculum of two higher education institutions. As a result, students receive diplomas from both universities simultaneously. Such programs enhance academic mobility and significantly strengthen graduates’ competitiveness in the international labor market. In this direction, the university consistently works to expand international cooperation and raise the quality of education to the global level.

During the workshop, participants discussed the conceptual foundations, applied models, and terminology of double-degree programs. Important issues were comprehensively examined, including the regulatory and institutional framework in Kazakhstan, criteria for selecting partner universities, curriculum alignment, mutual recognition of credits, and ensuring academic mobility.

The session was opened by Nurzhamal Oshanova, Director of the Department for Educational Program Analysis, who noted that the university is currently implementing 24 double-degree programs and plans to increase this number to 55 by 2026.

As part of the event, participants were divided into groups and introduced themselves in the format “Me and My Department.” Each specialist presented their professional capacity, key scientific and pedagogical areas of their departments, and opportunities for developing double-degree programs. Readiness to launch new programs, experience in creating unique and market-demanded academic programs, and the ability to conduct effective negotiations with foreign partners were identified as top priorities.

In addition, participants emphasized that departments’ practical preparedness, qualified teaching staff, regional expertise, and established international partnerships serve as a solid foundation for successful implementation of double-degree projects. Special attention was also paid to the introduction of digital solutions, expansion of online learning opportunities, and effective use of modern infrastructure and methodological expertise.

As a result of the workshop, key directions for the development of double-degree education programs were determined, and concrete proposals for improving the relevant regulations were compiled. Summarizing the event, Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs Banu Narbekova highlighted the productivity of the workshop and awarded participants with special certificates.

Media Center «Abai University»