Bydgoszcz, Republic of Poland – May 2025
Shakarim University continues to strengthen its presence in academic Europe.
As part of a strategic course toward internationalization, Rector Duman Orynbeckov and Vice-Rector for Internationalization and Innovation Yerasyl Dulatbay took part in the prestigious International Erasmus Week, held from May 12 to 16 at WSG University (University of Economics, Bydgoszcz, Poland).
This visit marked another important step in expanding Shakarim University’s lasting partnerships with European universities and enhancing its academic reputation abroad.
Why was this visit significant?
Direct negotiations with the Chancellor and senior leadership of the Polish university;
Laying the groundwork for new international research and student projects;
Strengthening Shakarim University’s position as a global-level academic player.
The goal of the visit extended beyond academic exchange — it represented a strategic effort to build long-term international cooperation, especially in light of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s vision for modernizing higher education and deepening integration with the global academic community.
Topics discussed included:
Resetting the joint double-degree program in “Sport and Recreation Management”: analyzing challenges and designing a roadmap for improvement;
Academic mobility: identifying tracks for student and faculty exchange;
Joint academic modules and integrated disciplines;
Possibility of launching English-language joint master’s programs;
Preparation of collaborative research proposals and grants in economics, digitalization, ecology, and sports science;
Updating educational content to meet international quality standards.
A symbolic moment: among WSG’s 1,500 international students from 34 countries, it was the Kazakh delegation that held one of the most comprehensive and meaningful visits.
The program included meetings with Kazakhstani students currently studying in Poland, a visit to the Olympic sports training center, and discussions on expanding academic mobility strategies.
Focus on youth. Young leadership meets international expertise
The presence of Yerasyl Dulatbay, Vice-Rector for Internationalization and Innovation, gave the visit special significance. He is currently the only certified CNAS technical expert in Kazakhstan — officially authorized to implement international certification standards. As the coordinator of the academic partnership with WSG, his role proves that the university is not just participating in global forums, but actively shaping its own agenda based on concrete action, institutional competence, and human capital.
A heartfelt meeting with Kazakh students
A warm and informal meeting was held with Kazakhstani students studying at WSG. Over tea, pizza, and open conversation, Rector Duman Orynbeckov and Vice-Rector Yerasyl Dulatbay listened to personal stories, suggestions, and reflections from young people gaining international experience in Poland.
They toured the campus, visited student dormitories, and walked together through springtime Bydgoszcz. These simple yet meaningful moments showed that students are proud to represent Kazakhstan abroad and eager to be part of the university’s future initiatives.
Here, the connection between generations and countries is evident — where trust and human involvement become the true capital of internationalization.
What’s next?
According to Rector Duman Orynbeckov, the university is preparing a new package of agreements, joint grant initiatives, and is inviting Polish partners to upcoming forums. Discussions are already underway for new collaborations in education, innovation, and sports science.
Shakarim University is becoming a dynamic international platform, capable of generating ideas, talent, and meaning.
Conclusion of the visit
Rector Orynbeckov expressed sincere gratitude to Chancellor Filip Sikora, Rector Marek Chamot, and the entire WSG team for the atmosphere of professionalism, mutual respect, and authentic partnership.
"Thank you for welcoming our proposals with openness, for your attention to detail, and for your willingness to work based on purpose rather than formality. We especially value the personal engagement of WSG’s faculty, their interest in our university, and their readiness to co-develop educational and research solutions," he said.
The future promises new joint modules, academic internships, and — more importantly — a newfound confidence that what’s being built between Shakarim University and WSG is not just a route, but a bridge of trust, knowledge, and shared growth.
This visit has become a quality leap toward academic leadership and regional development.
We sincerely thank our Polish colleagues for the new possibilities of change, and for the opportunity to introduce our university to the world.
