2025, August 14
Share this articleNew Joint Master’s in Global Affairs and Eurasian Studies Announced by NU and SOAS University of London.
Nazarbayev University (NU) and SOAS University of London have formalized a landmark partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding in London. NU President Professor Waqar Ahmad and SOAS Vice-Chancellor Professor Adam Habib signed the agreement alongside senior representatives from both institutions.
This dynamic partnership reflects NU and SOAS’s shared commitment to addressing global and regional challenges through collaborative teaching and research. The alliance will foster student and faculty mobility, enabling cross-cultural exchanges and impactful research collaborations. It also supports Kazakhstan’s vision, led by the Minister of Science and Higher Education Sayasat Nurbek, to position the country as a regional hub for higher education reform.
NU President Professor Waqar Ahmad stated: "NU and SOAS hold in common a commitment to addressing challenges faced by the world through teaching, research, global development and capacity building. Our planned joint program, co-designed and to be co-taught by our faculty, is the start of a partnership that our two institutions commit to build on. The program will provide a unique opportunity to outstanding students to learn at two of the leading institutions of their kind, and with unmatched opportunities to engage with senior policy makers."
Prof Adam Habib added: “International partnerships are central to our identity and mission as a university. They form a cornerstone of our new five-year strategy, creating meaningful and equitable opportunities for students to broaden their perspectives, deepen regional understanding, and cultivate the skills essential for a globally connected world. I’m truly pleased that we are embarking on this journey with Nazarbayev University – an institution widely admired for its academic excellence, innovation, and leadership in the region.”
The Master’s in Global Affairs and Eurasian Studies is targeted to begin recruiting in fall 2025 for the academic year of 2026-2027.
This joint programme leverages the institutional strengths of NU and SOAS, and shared commitment to a regional focus on Eurasian international politics, offering students a unique academic foundation. The addition of an internship in Astana further enriches the experience, providing valuable practical exposure in an international setting.
Interested applicants can sign up for the form for more details on the program and application process.
