The International Information Technology University (JSC “IITU”) is one of the leading higher education institutions of the Republic of Kazakhstan specializing in the training of highly qualified professionals in the field of information and communication technologies. The University was established on April 2, 2009 by the instruction of the First President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Nursultan Abishevich Nazarbayev, and on May 29, 2009 obtained a state license to carry out educational activities.

In 2025, JSC “IITU” completed the implementation of the Development Strategy for 2022–2025, the results of which demonstrate the institutional transformation achieved and provide a foundation for defining new development priorities. The University implements educational programs in key areas of training, including information and communication technologies, information security, media and digital communications, as well as interdisciplinary fields of study.

The training of specialists at the University is based on the principles of comprehensive development of professional knowledge and skills, managerial, economic, and communication competencies, as well as proficiency in the English language. This approach ensures the competitiveness of graduates in the global labor market.

The current stage of societal development is characterized by the emergence of a turbulent, fragile, and rapidly changing global environment marked by high uncertainty, accelerated technological change, and increasing systemic risks. Under these conditions, universities are required to reconsider traditional models of education, research, and governance and transition to more flexible and adaptive formats capable of ensuring sustainability and preparing specialists to work in conditions of constant change, rapid digital transformation, and the accelerated development of artificial intelligence (AI).

Mission

Training specialists and researchers with digital and AI competencies capable of operating effectively in conditions of environmental turbulence and fragility.

Strategic Goal

To become a next-generation university in Central Asia that develops digital and AI-driven solutions in an era of rapid technological change.

Vision

IITU — “AI-Driven University” — a value-oriented ecosystem of education, research, and innovation with responsible AI leaders and breakthrough technologies.

Key Qualitative Parameters of JSC “IITU” (2026–2030)

1. A human-centered model of university development;
2. Training of specialists considering technological transformations in Kazakhstan and globally;
3. Positioning the University as an “AI-Driven” technological leader;
4. An open ecosystem of creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship;
5. A flexible organizational and innovation architecture;
6. Governance based on data analytics, artificial intelligence, and expert decision-making;
7. Economic sustainability and investment attractiveness of the University.

Achievements and Analysis of the Current State

JSC “IITU” consistently strengthens its status as a leading ICT university in Kazakhstan. In May 2012, the University successfully passed the state certification of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Kazakhstan and received a low risk level status (certification once every five years). On June 21, 2012, the University obtained a license to train scientific personnel in PhD doctoral programs in specialized fields. On May 8, 2013, IITU received research and scientific-technical accreditation from the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Kazakhstan and on June 14, 2023 successfully passed reaccreditation (Series MK No. 000226). In 2016, a Dissertation Council in the field of “Information and Communication Technologies” was established at the University. The field of Information Security is one of the strongest in the country. On December 14, 2017, together with the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace Industry of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the University established a Cybersecurity Competence Center. In 2018, the University received the status of Educational and Methodological Association (EMA) of the Republican Educational and Methodological Council (REMC) for the fields “061 – ICT” and “063 – Information Security.” On December 5, 2018, with the support of the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Kazakhstan, a Military Department specializing in cybersecurity was opened at the University.

In 2022, JSC “IITU” and the globally renowned company Microsoft agreed on a strategic partnership aimed at training highly qualified specialists in digital technologies and implementing joint projects.

Since 2020, IITU has served as a Coursera ambassador in Central Asia. In 2023, the University hosted the first international Coursera Day, where Coursera CEO Jeff Maggioncalda delivered a keynote address. In December 2025, the University received the Coursera Engagement Excellence Award (EMEA) for a high level of learner engagement in digital programs.

The University has launched and successfully implements several new educational programs, including Information Technologies in Business, Artificial Intelligence, Mathematical and Computer Modeling, Executive MBA in IT (EMBA in IT).

The University actively develops its innovation infrastructure and establishes new educational and research laboratories. In 2024, the first 5G training laboratory in Kazakhstan was opened with the support of the Japanese company Anritsu. In 2025, three new laboratories were launched: Research Lab of Advanced Cognitive and AI (ACAI Lab) – a research laboratory for cognitive technologies and AI, Digital Circuit Design Laboratory, DREAM Lab, equipped with modern VR/AR technologies

The University develops cooperation with leading international and national companies and organizations, including Apple, Huawei, SAP, Oracle, Cisco, Microsoft, Coursera, Kaspersky Lab, 1C, and Halyk Bank. These partnerships enable the integration of modern digital technologies and industry practices into educational and research processes and enhance the practical orientation of specialist training.

A separate direction of international cooperation involves participation in UNICEF and Erasmus+ programs. Within these projects, academic mobility of students and faculty members, joint educational initiatives, and exchange of experience with European universities are implemented, contributing to the internationalization of education and improvement of educational quality.

In March 2025, the University successfully passed institutional reaccreditation by ASIIN (Germany), a leading European accreditation agency, becoming the only university in Kazakhstan to reconfirm compliance with European quality standards in education and maintain the status of international excellence.

According to the National Atameken Ranking results for 2025, the University occupies leading positions in the specialties “Information Security” (2/8), “Information Technologies” (2/7), and “Communications and Communication Technologies” (2/23).

In 2024, the University entered the QS Asia University Rankings and received the Reporter status in the Times Higher Education (THE) international ranking. IITU ranked 1501+ in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2025, which evaluates universities’ contributions to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

According to the Webometrics international ranking (October 2025), IITU ranked 3,754th among more than 30,000 universities worldwide. Compared to July 2024, the University improved its position by 1,762 places, allowing IITU to enter the Top-5 leading universities in Kazakhstan. This indicates positive dynamics in digital presence, scientific visibility, and openness of the University.

The University consistently develops programs of international academic mobility, dual-degree programs, and research internships, relying on a network of more than 100 cooperation agreements with foreign universities and research organizations. The geography of these partnerships spans Europe and Asia, including Germany, Poland, Turkey, Italy, Malaysia, the Republic of Korea, China, Australia, as well as the countries of Central Asia.

In the 2024–2025 academic year, more than 90 students participated in both outbound and inbound mobility programs, including external and internal academic mobility.

In 2024, IITU students placed 24th in the ICPC World Finals 2024 global programming championship among 130 participating teams. Student teams of IITU regularly win prize positions in team competitions in basketball, football, togyzkumalak, powerlifting, and chess.

In the 2024–2025 academic year, an increase in the number of international faculty members involved in educational activities was recorded, reaching 33 persons. International faculty participate in the implementation of all educational programs, strengthening the international dimension of education and contributing to the improvement of educational quality.

According to the 2025 graduation results, the share of graduates employed in their field of study amounted to 91.8%, confirming the high demand for graduates and the practice-oriented nature of the educational programs.

In 2014, the number of publications authored by researchers affiliated with JSC “IITU” in the Scopus international scientific database was 28, while in 2025 it reached 195 (as of November 10, 2025). The total number of publications in the IITU Scopus profile as of the end of 2025 amounted to 1,106. The citation count of authors affiliated with JSC “IITU” (excluding self-citations) increased from 17 citations in 2014 to 1,616 citations in 2025.

By Order No. 395 of the Chairman of the Committee for Quality Assurance in Science and Higher Education of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated March 4, 2025, a Dissertation Council was established at JSC “IITU” in the field 8D061 Information and Communication Technologies (educational programs: 8D06101 – Intelligent Systems; 8D06102 – Computer and Software Engineering; 8D06103 – Information Systems; 8D06105 – Data Science). The Dissertation Council has been established for a three-year term (2025–2028). As of December 2025, out of 128 doctoral students who completed their studies at JSC “IITU”, 27 successfully defended their dissertations, representing 21% of the total number.

The number of research projects implemented under the grant funding programs of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan reached 15 projects in 2025, compared to 3 projects in 2015.

The achieved results are the outcome of the implementation of the University Development Strategy for 2022–2025. Overall, the University demonstrated positive dynamics across most strategic areas. At the same time, the analysis of the implementation of the 2022–2025 Strategy identified several areas that require additional attention and refinement of approaches.

First, this concerns student academic mobility. The actual indicators of inbound and outbound mobility remain below the planned targets, indicating the need to strengthen support for international and inter-university exchanges. The main limiting factors include the limited number of grants and scholarships, as well as the financial burden on students.

The issue of staff sustainability also requires particular attention. The turnover of administrative and managerial staff (AMS) and academic staff (faculty) exceeded the planned levels. This is due to high competition in the labor market for IT specialists and limited opportunities for financial incentives, which complicates the retention and attraction of qualified personnel.

Another relevant task is the expansion of the employee motivation system and the improvement of the effectiveness of the University’s internal financial development mechanisms.

The University considers these areas to be priority directions for the next stage of development. During the 2026–2030 period, systematic work is planned to strengthen personnel policy, expand motivation instruments, and develop academic mobility through new partnerships, expanded grant opportunities, and enhanced institutional support for students and faculty members.

Analysis of Internal and External Factors of the University

In the context of the rapid development of digital technologies and global transformation, digitalization is becoming an integral component of all spheres of human activity. Public authorities, business, and society increasingly require specialists capable of developing and implementing innovative solutions. A special role in this process is played by artificial intelligence (AI), which not only transforms traditional industries but also shapes new directions for scientific research and educational programs.

JSC “IITU” must play a key role in training professionals for the digital economy. The University should act as a center of competencies, integrating educational, research, and innovation activities. For Kazakhstan, this is particularly important, as the state has set strategic objectives for the development of a “digital government,” implementation of smart services, advancement of Industry 4.0, and strengthening competitiveness in the international arena.

Under these conditions, universities perform not only an educational function but also act as centers for the development and implementation of new digital solutions. For JSC “IITU”, this implies the need for flexibility, continuous adaptation to external changes, modernization of infrastructure, expansion of cooperation with the IT industry, and strengthening of international partnerships.

The University is expected to train specialists with practical competencies in digital technologies and AI, develop a strong research and innovation environment, participate in the implementation of national and corporate digital initiatives, and create conditions for the emergence of востребованные scientific and applied solutions. JSC “IITU” positions itself as an active player in the fields of IT and AI, ensuring the training of specialists, development of research, and implementation of applied digital solutions.

Considering the identified trends and challenges, the key factors in the field of ICT and AI, as well as the corresponding educational, research, and practice-oriented responses already implemented or planned at JSC “IITU”, are presented below.

Expected Results

The implementation of the University Development Strategy for 2026–2030 will ensure the formation of IITU as an “AI-Driven” university and technological leader, performing the role of a digital bridge between government, industry, and society in the context of the digital transformation of Kazakhstan and Central Asia. The University will consistently transition to the “AI-Driven University” model within the University 5.0 framework, where the human being, values, and the responsible use not only of AI tools but of all technologies remain at the center. The University will strengthen its specialization in artificial intelligence, data analytics, cybersecurity, and the development of digital solutions, including the areas of GovTech, AI engineering, and digital architecture. This will increase the share of educational programs that meet the requirements of the new economy and the global labor market. Education, research, and governance will systematically rely on data, AI tools, and modern digital solutions, while the responsible use of AI will become the foundation for the development of the University ecosystem. This will enhance the University’s competitiveness and ensure the training of specialists capable of developing and implementing strategic-level technological solutions.

The University will strengthen its research and expert potential through increasing the proportion of staff holding PhD degrees, attracting leading researchers, and developing scientific schools in the fields of AI, digital technologies, and applied research. Attention will be paid to the development of R&D activities, the creation of applied solutions, and the development of intellectual property in partnership with industrial companies and technological ecosystems, thereby contributing to the development of the digital economy and the export potential of IT services.

The Strategy is aimed at increasing the international recognition of IITU and strengthening its position as a center of expertise in AI and digital technologies. The University will continue to expand cooperation with leading foreign universities, research centers, and industry partners, increase the number of international students and faculty members, and further integrate into global educational and scientific networks.

Within the framework of the 2026–2030 Strategy, a project will be implemented for the reconstruction of a new academic building and the technological infrastructure of the University. A modern intelligent campus will be created, providing conditions for education, scientific research, development of AI solutions, and implementation of innovative projects. The University’s infrastructure will be modernized in accordance with the requirements of the AI-Driven model, including the creation of a secure technological environment. Special attention will be paid to the creation of an inclusive and accessible educational environment. This will contribute to improving the quality of education, advancing research and innovation activities, and strengthening IITU’s position as a leading technological university in the region.

As a result of implementing the 2026–2030 Strategy, JSC “IITU” will form a sustainable AI-Driven ecosystem, in which artificial intelligence will become the foundation of education, research, governance, and innovation activities. The University will not only use AI but will systematically integrate it into all key processes, ensuring the training of competitive specialists capable of developing, implementing, and managing digital and AI solutions in conditions of high uncertainty and technological change. IITU will consolidate a unique specialization in AI, data analytics, cybersecurity, and digital technologies, strengthening its position as a technological leader and center of expertise contributing to the development of human capital, innovation, and digital transformation in Kazakhstan and the region.

Key Success Factors

Considering the analysis of the current situation, the established goals, and the selected development directions, it is important to determine the factors upon which the successful implementation of the Strategy will depend. Understanding these factors will make it possible to concentrate efforts on the most critical priorities, respond promptly to changes, and ensure the sustainable development of the University.

The implementation of the Strategy will rely on a system of measurable indicators integrated into the KPI maps of members of the Management Board, academic staff, and administrative personnel. The key factors that will determine the success, sustainability, manageability, and effectiveness of the Strategy are presented below.

Focus on IT and AI. A clear orientation of the University toward IT and AI as key areas of education, research, and innovation will enable the University to remain relevant and in demand for the state, business, and students.

Quality of Education and Practical Orientation. Regular updating of educational programs, participation of industry partners, the introduction of dual education models, and the development of virtual and AI laboratories ensure the continuous improvement and sustainable maintenance of the quality of education, a high level of student training, and the employability of graduates.

Strong Academic Staff and High-Level Research Teams. An increase in the proportion of faculty members holding academic degrees, professional development of teaching staff, and the attraction of foreign professors and researchers directly influence the quality of education and research.

Developed Research and Innovation Environment. Active participation in grant-funded projects, growth in publications indexed in Scopus and Web of Science, and the involvement of students and doctoral candidates in research activities contribute to the formation of a sustainable research and innovation ecosystem.

International Integration. Academic mobility, dual-degree programs, participation in international research programs, and cooperation with foreign universities enhance the international recognition and attractiveness of IITU.

Modern Infrastructure and Technological Excellence. The reconstruction of the new academic building, the creation of smart classrooms, the digitalization of business processes, and the implementation of information security standards will form a technologically advanced university campus.

Data-Driven and AI-Based Governance. The use of data analytics, digital indicators, and AI tools in governance increases flexibility, transparency, and the speed of managerial decision-making.

Financial Sustainability and Diversification of Revenues. The growth of extra-budgetary revenues, the development of continuing education programs, and the expansion of the startup ecosystem reduce dependence on external risks.

Development of Human Capital and Corporate Culture. Systematic work on staff motivation, engagement, and trust ensures the sustainability of the Strategy and its effective implementation in practice.

Flexibility and Adaptability in a Turbulent External Environment. The University’s ability to promptly adapt educational programs, research priorities, and management decisions to changes in the technological, economic, and social environment through the use of data analytics and AI will ensure long-term institutional resilience.

University Values

Responsible use of artificial intelligence forms the foundation of the AI-Driven University concept and determines the principles for the application of AI in all key processes — education, research, governance, and innovation. The University utilizes AI to develop its ecosystem while adhering to the principles of transparency, ethics, security, human-centeredness, and consideration of the social and long-term implications of digital technologies.

Academic Integrity – commitment to the principles of honesty, transparency, fairness, and responsibility in educational, research, and administrative activities, including adherence to academic ethics and standards for the responsible use of AI.

Innovation and Research – advancement of science and innovation based on AI, data, and digital technologies as key drivers of research, applied development, startup activities, and technology transfer within the University ecosystem.

Quality and Competitiveness – ensuring a high quality of education and the training of specialists who are in demand in the labor market through personalized learning, the development of digital technologies, AI competencies, and practice-oriented programs.

Sustainable and Responsible Digital Development – implementation of sustainable development principles, ESG standards, and social responsibility within the University’s digital environment, including ethical use of AI, inclusivity, and the societal relevance of technological solutions.

Openness and International Cooperation – development of open international cooperation in the fields of AI, education, research, and digital technologies through partnerships with universities, research centers, industry, and digital platforms, as well as through the exchange of data, knowledge, and best practices.

Leadership and Personal Development – formation of a new generation of AI leaders capable of making informed decisions using AI, managing AI systems, and implementing digital and organizational transformations in conditions of uncertainty and turbulence.

Intelligent Governance – managerial decision-making based on data analytics, digital metrics, and AI, ensuring transparency, evidence-based governance, adaptability, and sustainability of the University’s strategic and operational development.

Strategic Directions

Improvement of Educational and Social Development Activities

The improvement of educational and social development activities is aimed at developing a flexible competency-based learning model with the integration of AI tools across all educational programs.

Social and developmental work is focused on fostering civic responsibility, leadership qualities of a new generation, and a culture of academic integrity, as well as on strengthening student self-governance and creating an inclusive and safe university environment.

Development of Scientific Potential and Research Infrastructure

The development of scientific potential and research infrastructure will be ensured through the growth of fundamental and applied research, expansion of the international partnership network of educational and research projects, increase in publication and patent activity, attraction of grant funding, expansion of industrial R&D partnerships, and systematic involvement of young talented students and researchers in research activities.

Ensuring Technological Leadership and Development of University Infrastructure

Technological leadership and the infrastructural sustainability of the University will be ensured through the modernization of digital (virtual) and educational laboratory infrastructure, the introduction of modern IT platforms and services, and the strengthening of cybersecurity.

At the same time, a reliable technological environment for education, research, and innovation will be developed, along with a student startup entrepreneurship ecosystem based on incubation and acceleration programs, mentorship, investment support, and partnerships with industry.

Increasing the Competitiveness of the University at the National and International Levels

Increasing the competitiveness of the University at both national and international levels will be achieved through strengthening academic reputation, improving the quality of educational programs and research, increasing the level of academic mobility, expanding the share of international students and faculty, and improving the University’s positions in national and international rankings.

Financial and Economic Sustainability of the University: Development of Corporate AI Culture and Governance in Conditions of Turbulence

The development of human capital, corporate culture, and governance systems will be ensured through the implementation of modern HR practices and motivation models, enhancement of staff qualifications and engagement, strengthening the values of academic ethics and results-oriented performance, and the improvement of management processes based on data analytics and KPI-driven performance management.