On October 23, Nazarbayev University held a Townhall meeting dedicated to the celebration of the Republic Day of Kazakhstan and to discussing the University’s progress in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings.
The event brought together NU staff members.
Addressing the university community, NU President Professor Waqar Ahmad stated:
“I am proud that Nazarbayev University has improved its position in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, now placing in the 401–500 band among 2,191 universities. This success became possible thanks to your outstanding work — so let us thank ourselves for this achievement. And while we celebrate this result, we will not rest on our laurels. We will continue to strive for excellence in everything we do. This aspiration is reflected in our goal — to reach the 201–300 band by 2030 or earlier.”
In conclusion, Professor Ahmad expressed his gratitude to Vice Provost for Academic Affairs Loretta O’Donnell, who has served at the University for 12 years and is completing her tenure at NU. She was presented with the award “Ғылымды дамытуға сіңірген еңбегі үшін” (“For Contribution to the Development of Science”).
Executive Vice President Aslan Sarinzhipov also congratulated the NU community on the upcoming holiday, while new Provost Rehan Sadiq, speaking to colleagues for the first time, shared insights from his professional experience and spoke about his decision to join the University.
The event culminated in the recognition of 94 employees from University Service Management (USM) for their long-standing contributions to the development and operational support of the University. The organization plays a key role in ensuring NU’s operational sustainability. Its areas of responsibility include construction and maintenance, landscaping and cleaning, transportation and security services, and more.
