Nazarbayev University congratulates former Provost and Emeritus Professor Ilesanmi Adesida on receiving the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) Lifetime Achievement Award — one of the highest recognitions in the field of engineering education.
The award recognises Professor Adesida’s longstanding contribution to advancing engineering education, research, and academic leadership internationally. Throughout his career, he has helped shape institutions and generations of students and scholars, including through his leadership role at NU during an important stage of the university’s development.
Commenting on the recognition, NU President Professor Waqar Ahmad said:
“The accolade is as significant as it is well deserved. Professor Adesida, Ade to all of us, has left an indelible mark on engineering education, here at Nazarbayev University and other places. He carried NU affiliation to this award and we celebrate this recognition together. His contribution continues to shape the university’s future direction.
Professor Ilesanmi Adesida served as a Provost of Nazarbayev University from 2016 to 2024.
The American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) Lifetime Achievement Award is among the organisation’s highest distinctions and recognises individuals whose careers have made sustained and significant contributions to engineering and engineering technology education.
As part of its next stage of academic development, in April 2026 NU announced the creation of a unified School of Engineering by bringing engineering disciplines into a single school. The initiative aims to strengthen interdisciplinary teaching, build greater research capacity, expand innovation, and deepen engagement with industry.
