NU and HKUST(GZ) Strengthen Ties
Nazarbayev University (NU) welcomed a high-level delegation from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou) (HKUST(GZ)) for a series of academic exchanges, including faculty meetings, a roundtable discussion, and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
NU President Professor Waqar Ahmad emphasized the significance of the partnership in the context of NU’s mission:
“We are a 15-year-old institution that stands as independent. Therefore, the partnerships we now seek are very different. Our ambition is to be an outstanding institution in Central Asia. We play a significant role not only as a university upholding international standards in teaching, research, and the student experience, but also as an institution that catalyzes improvements across the wider sector.
It is my hope that the discussions we hold today will help us recognize the time and contributions each of us can make to improving higher education in this fantastic region, which has so much potential. Too often, there is a tendency to look to the West for examples. Yet some of the most dynamic and rapidly developing universities are emerging here. We need the confidence to recognize that many of the greatest strengths in higher education are already here — and we must contribute to them.”
Professor Lionel M. Ni, Founding President of HKUST(GZ), highlighted Kazakhstan’s role as a regional and global bridge:
“Kazakhstan offers an extensive landscape that echoes the journey of ancient Chinese caravans. It is ambitious, with a vision articulated in initiatives like Kazakhstan 2050, and it stands as a bridge between East and West. We are profoundly grateful for the exceptional hospitality we have received. This visit feels less like an introduction and more like reconnecting with an older friend who shares our common aspirations.
Nazarbayev University has a beautiful campus. In 2013, President Xi Jinping delivered his historic speech here that launched what would become the Belt and Road Initiative — a testament to NU’s strategic importance. Beyond that landmark event, our respect stems from witnessing firsthand today the dynamic pursuit of academic excellence, making this an ideal first stop on my journey through Central Asia.”
The MoU signed at the event lays the foundation for closer collaboration between the two universities in research, education, and innovation, while also fostering opportunities for faculty and student exchange.
A key highlight of the visit was the China-Kazakhstan Higher Education Roundtable, co-organized by NU and HKUST(GZ). Under the theme Redefining Educational Paradigms and Unlocking Cooperation Potentials, the event explored the transformative impact of emerging technologies on global higher education models and examined how international collaboration can drive innovation.
The roundtable gathered Kazakhstani ministerial leaders, university leaders, and academic pioneers to formulate actionable frameworks for technology-driven educational cooperation. Central to the discussions were two guiding questions:
- What are the essential factors for achieving competitiveness as a research university?
- How can universities in China and Kazakhstan make collaboration a driver for regional development?
A networking dinner followed the discussions, providing opportunities to deepen connections and explore concrete areas of cooperation.
Earlier in September, Nazarbayev University (NU) and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) announced the launch of a joint academic program, marking a new stage of partnership between the two institutions.
