2025, April 15
Share this articleHow can one maintain integrity in an academic environment? How does one build a principled career, lead ethically, and stay true to oneself in a world full of challenges and opportunities?
These essential questions were at the heart of discussions among students and high schoolers at the fifth annual Integrity Forum.
This academic event, organized by the Student Government of Nazarbayev University (NU), took place over two days. The first day featured a panel discussion with invited speakers, while the second day hosted a case competition with a prize fund of 600,000 KZT.
The forum brought together over 130 participants. This year’s theme, “Tolyq Adam: Pure Thoughts, Honest Actions,” was inspired by the moral philosophy of Abai Kunanbaiuly.
The event opened with a performance by the NU Orchestra, followed by welcoming remarks from NU President Dr. Waqar Ahmad and Vice Provost for Academic Affairs Dr. Loretta O’Donnell. The session was moderated by Balgyn Orazaly, NU Student Government Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Ayana Batyrbayeva, former SG President.
Out of 31 registered teams, 15 finalists advanced to the final round of the case competition, where they presented innovative solutions to a fictional scenario involving the “Silk Road University” — an imaginary institution facing threats to academic integrity. Participants were tasked with analyzing the situation, identifying systemic weaknesses, and proposing actionable solutions.
The judges ultimately selected three winning teams:
1st Place: Goose — 300,000 KZT
2nd Place: Wassup — 200,000 KZT
3rd Place: DAS Alliance — 100,000 KZT
The teams were made up of students from various educational institutions, including Nazarbayev University, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, QSI International School, Astana Garden School, and International School of Astana.
