On the initiative of the Graduate School of Education at Nazarbayev University, our university, together with the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, launched a new professional development program for deans — “Academic Leadership Institute: Deans’ School.”
The opening ceremony was attended by our university’s rector, Zhanar Temirbekova; Nazarbayev University President Waqar Ahmad; and Deputy Chair of the Committee on Higher and Postgraduate Education of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, Gulzhan Zharassova. They highlighted the importance of leadership in Kazakhstan’s higher education sector.
The program aims to form a talent pool of future leaders of Kazakhstani universities. It focuses on developing competencies that enable deans to effectively manage faculties in conditions of constant change, successfully integrate innovative methods and technologies, and uphold high standards of ethical practice.
The “Deans’ School” program was designed based on a comprehensive analysis of needs. Job descriptions of university deans in Kazakhstan were thoroughly studied, and focus group discussions were conducted with academic leaders from institutions such as Ahmet Yassawi University, Kozybayev University, Narxoz University, and KIMEP University.
The project generated significant interest — over 170 applications were submitted from pedagogical, technical, national, medical, and private universities in Kazakhstan, as well as universities in Kyrgyzstan. Based on analytical essays and video interviews, 80 participants were selected, including faculty and researchers from our university. Of approximately 20 applications submitted, 7 of our scholars were accepted:
Issaev Gani Issauly
Nuskabayeva Gulnaz Orazbekkyzy
Massadikov Khairulla Gaibullayuly
Bostanova Ardak Muratkzy
Sarzhanov Fakhriddin Nurmakhameduly
Agabekova Aktolkyn Bekaryskzy
Omarova Balnur Adilbekkyzy
The training program, running from September to December 2024, is designed to develop a strong cohort of mid-level academic leaders. It includes modules on strategic and practical management of university faculties and departments. Participants will gain knowledge in education quality management, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, curriculum development, strategic planning, talent management, and corporate culture. The “Deans’ School” is conducted in a hybrid format with national and international experts, providing a rich and comprehensive learning experience.
The program consists of nine modules:
Education Quality Management
Academic Activities and Innovations in Education
Digitalization of Education
Strategic Planning and Management in Education
Leadership and Change Management
Student Achievements
Talent Management
Research Management
Institutional Culture and Ethics
Training sessions will be held on the campuses of our university and Nazarbayev University. Modules on “Digitalization of Education,” “Student Achievements,” and “Talent Management” are planned to take place at our university. Today, the program commenced with the “Education Quality Management” module and will continue until December.
The “Deans’ School” program is expected to bring significant improvements to Kazakhstan’s higher education system. Participants will acquire strategies to enhance education quality, manage resources efficiently, and foster a culture of innovation in their institutions.
KZ
TR
EN
RU
