The International Information Technology University, one of Kazakhstan's leading institutions in information technology education, announces the appointment of Rustem Aidarbekuly Bigari as Chairman of the Management Board – Rector, following the decision of the University's Board of Directors.
Rustem Bigari is a distinguished public administrator with extensive experience in digital transformation, public governance, higher education, and information technologies. Throughout his career, he has played a significant role in advancing Kazakhstan's digital agenda and implementing large-scale reforms in the fields of education, e-government, and digital innovation.
He graduated from Sh. Ualikhanov Kokshetau State University with a degree in Computer Science and Computer Engineering. As a recipient of the prestigious Bolashak Presidential Scholarship, he earned a Master's degree in Information Systems with a specialization in Cybersecurity from Boston University (USA). He also completed professional training at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), focusing on the digital economy. Rustem Bigari holds a PhD degree.
Over the course of his career, Rustem Bigari has held senior positions across both the public and international sectors. He coordinated projects for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Kazakhstan, the National Environmental Center, and National Information Technologies JSC.
From 2006 to 2018, he served in the Administration of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, including as Deputy Head of the Department of Informatization and Information Resources Protection, where he oversaw key initiatives in digital governance and national information security.
Between 2018 and 2021, Rustem Bigari served as Vice Minister of Education and Science of the Republic of Kazakhstan. During this period, he led the digital transformation of Kazakhstan's education and science sectors, modernized the country's educational IT infrastructure, and coordinated the nationwide transition to distance learning.
Most recently, he served as Chief Executive Officer of the Digital Government Support Center, where he led projects focused on big data technologies, digital public services, and the continued development of Kazakhstan's digital government ecosystem.
For his contribution to public service and digital transformation, Dr. Bigari has been awarded the "Eren Enbegi Ushin" ("For Distinguished Labor") Medal and other state honors.
Mr.Bigari's appointment marks an important milestone in the continued development of IITU. His extensive leadership experience, academic background, and expertise in digital technologies are expected to further strengthen the University's position as a leading center for education, research, and innovation in Central Asia, while supporting its mission to prepare highly qualified professionals for the global digital economy.
The faculty, staff, and students of the International Information Technology University congratulate Rustem Aidarbekuly Bigari on his appointment and wish him every success in leading the University toward new achievements in education, research, and technological innovation.
