An annual public meeting was held at Baitursynuly University, where Rector Seitbek Kuanyshbayev presented the university’s performance results for the past academic year and outlined plans for 2025–2026.
“Kostanay Regional University is demonstrating steady growth and confident progress,” noted the Rector. “Today, we have more than 9,000 students, over 40% of whom study on state grants—that’s more than 3,500 students.”
Interest among local graduates is also rising: if in the previous year 46.6% of high school graduates from Kostanay region chose KRU, this year the number reached 55.4%—including 859 grant students and 2,251 on a paid basis.
The employment rate of grant students exceeds 90%.Under the “Serpin” program, 51 students are currently studying at KRU, while another 30 receive grants from the “Qazaqstan Khalqyna” Foundation and local executive bodies.
The university employs 1,105 staff members, including 590 faculty, among them 19 Doctors of Science, 147 Candidates of Science, and 61 PhD holders. The average age of the teaching staff is 55, which, according to the Rector, “symbolizes a harmony of experience and youth.”
“KRU is committed to innovation: 100% of our faculty already use artificial intelligence in the educational process,” emphasized Kuanyshbayev. “More than 500 students have completed courses on the international platform Coursera. The university currently offers 154 educational programs, including 24 new and 55 innovative ones.”
KRU also develops five dual-degree programs in partnership with foreign universities.
The university’s network of international partners is expanding—20 agreements have been signed with institutions in Europe, Asia, and the United States. Students complete internships in the Czech Republic, China, Korea, Lithuania, and Germany.
During the open discussion, participants raised topical questions.
On the “Serpin” program, the Rector commented:
“The program continues. Yes, earlier 300–400 students enrolled each year, while now the number is smaller because similar grants are available in the southern regions—so many prefer to study closer to home. In addition, Serpin graduates are required to work in the northern regions, which also influences their decision.”
Community representatives also shared their observations.
Aslan Madibayev, Director of the S. Maulenov Gymnasium in Kostanay:
“Around 40% of your students undertake internships at our school. This year, four young specialists—KRU graduates—joined our team, three of them Serpin participants. Within just a month, they are showing remarkable results. Six of our recent graduates chose teaching and enrolled at your university.”
He suggested issuing certificates confirming graduates’ competencies in artificial intelligence technologies. The Rector supported the idea and promised to consider its implementation.
Irina Aronova, Chair of the Trade Union Center of Kostanay Region and former Member of the Majilis of the Parliament of Kazakhstan (5th–6th convocations), added:
“I have always felt connected to this university. I’ve often visited, met with students, and seen their enthusiasm. Your laboratories are impressive, and your research brings tangible benefits. There is a unique atmosphere of knowledge, creativity, and mutual respect at KRU. When everyone shares a common goal, success is inevitable. The university has a bright future.”
In conclusion, Rector Kuanyshbayev expressed his gratitude:
“All achievements are the result of our collective effort. Thank you for your hard work! My mission is to create conditions for growth. We are actively implementing innovations—because the key is not to fall behind the times.”
KRU is clearly keeping pace. Record-breaking results across all areas speak for themselves.
Congratulations to the entire Baitursynuly University team! Keep up the great work!
