The comprehensive program “Academic Leadership Institute: Deans’ School,” developed by the NU Graduate School of Education (GSE), has been launched to enhance the skills and knowledge of faculty leaders at Kazakhstani higher education institutions. The program aims to achieve high-quality standards and effective management in the dynamic environment of higher education. A total of 80 deans, selected on a competitive basis, will undergo training from September to December this year. Overall, more than 170 applications were received from 46 universities.
In his welcoming speech, NU President Professor Waqar Ahmad emphasized the university’s active commitment to supporting and advancing higher education in the country. “The Graduate School of Education (GSE) is fulfilling this mandate by reaching more than 28,000 participants through a range of effective programs, including training for university leaders and professional development initiatives, thereby making a significant contribution. Today, we continue this journey, and this new initiative will provide you with the tools, knowledge, and strategies necessary for the further development of your institutions,” said Dr. Ahmad, addressing the attendees.
From September 25 to 28, the first training modules on quality management in education, academic activities, and innovations are being held. Participants will also study the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the educational process, academic integrity, and ethical challenges. Professor Atakan Varol, Director of NU ISSAI, spoke on the first day about trends and the role of AI in modern higher education.
“The ‘Deans’ School’ program was developed based on a needs analysis, which included assessing the job responsibilities of deans at Kazakhstani universities and conducting focus groups with deans from North Kazakhstan University named after M. Kozybayev, Narxoz University, KIMEP University, and Ahmet Yassawi University,” said NU Vice Provost and Dean of the Graduate School of Education, Aida Sagintayeva.
The program consists of several modules, including quality management in education, academic and research activities, student affairs, digital transformation, and strategic planning. The international module will take place at Shanghai Normal University, where deans will learn about global best practices in academic leadership. The “Academic Leadership Institute: Deans’ School” program is supported by Ahmet Yassawi University, where some of the modules will be held, and by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
