Baku:A delegation from the State Program Management Group (SPMG) met with representatives of the National Center for Higher Education Development under Kazakhstan's Ministry of Science and Higher Education.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the meeting focused on expanding academic ties between the higher education systems of Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan. Discussions included exchanging experiences related to the 'State Program for Education of Azerbaijani Youth at Prestigious Higher Education Institutions Abroad for 2022-2028,' and exploring partnership opportunities in the internationalization of higher education.

Alibek Madibekov, Director of Kazakhstan's National Center for Higher Education Development, presented the country's strategy for higher education development and international integration. The presentation highlighted Kazakhstan's efforts in promoting international academic mobility, including the operation of 33 foreign university branches and dual-degree programs. Additionally, it was noted that 20 Kazakh higher education institutions are ranked by QS, with three among the top 400 globally.

The discussions also centered around training specialists for the modern labor market, emphasizing the introduction of 44 new programs in areas such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, renewable energy, and engineering. The development of flexible curricula was also addressed.

Further topics included student and academic staff exchange opportunities under Azerbaijan's 2022-2028 State Program and Kazakhstan's 'Study in Kazakhstan' scholarship program. Prospects for joint research and dual-degree programs were also explored, alongside cooperation on specialized training programs.