September 17, 2026 | Daejeon, South Korea

SolBridge International School of Business was honored to welcome Sayasat Nurbek, Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, on September 17, 2026, for a special visit highlighting the importance of international cooperation in higher education.

During his visit, Minister Nurbek was conferred an Honorary Doctor Degree by SolBridge International School of Business, Woosong University, in recognition of his contributions to higher education, science, and international academic cooperation.

Following the honorary degree ceremony, Minister Nurbek delivered a special lecture to SolBridge students titled “Kazakhstan as a Regional Education Hub.” The lecture explored Kazakhstan’s vision for strengthening its position as a regional center for education, research, innovation, and international academic collaboration.

Kazakhstan as a Regional Education Hub

Minister Nurbek introduced Kazakhstan’s “3M Strategy,” highlighting the country’s development around three interconnected roles: the Middle Corridor, Middle Power, and Middle Hub. Within this vision, the “Middle Hub” focuses on developing Kazakhstan as an academic and research hub while fostering intellectual exchange and international cooperation.

The lecture highlighted Kazakhstan’s growing network of international university partnerships and academic initiatives with institutions across Europe, Asia, and North America. These include international branch campuses, dual-degree programs, joint academic programs, and research collaborations.

Particular attention was given to Kazakhstan–Korea cooperation in higher education and science, reflecting the growing academic connections between the two countries.

Minister Nurbek also discussed Kazakhstan’s efforts to attract international students and strengthen its role in the international education landscape. Kazakhstan currently welcomes students from countries across different regions and aims to further expand international student mobility, academic partnerships, and educational opportunities.

Preparing for the Future of Education

Another key topic of the lecture was the transformation of higher education through artificial intelligence and digital technologies.

Minister Nurbek discussed Kazakhstan’s initiatives to integrate AI into higher education, including collaborations with global technology and education organizations and the development of AI-related courses and training opportunities for students and educators.

He also highlighted Kazakhstan’s cooperation with OpenAI on the use of AI in education, with a focus on strengthening digital skills, supporting educators, and preparing students for an increasingly technology-driven economy.

The lecture emphasized the importance of skills such as analytical thinking, communication, teamwork, adaptability, creativity, innovation, and business acumen as the nature of work continues to evolve alongside new technologies.

Inspiring Global Perspectives at SolBridge

Minister Nurbek’s visit provided SolBridge students with a valuable opportunity to learn about Kazakhstan’s approach to international higher education, academic cooperation, and technological transformation directly from the country’s Minister of Science and Higher Education.

The visit also reflects SolBridge’s continued commitment to internationalization, cross-cultural exchange, and global academic engagement. As an internationally oriented business school, SolBridge values opportunities that connect students with global leaders and encourage dialogue on the future of education, business, science, and technology.

SolBridge International School of Business extends its sincere appreciation to Sayasat Nurbek for visiting the SolBridge community, sharing his insights with students, and contributing to meaningful dialogue on the future of international higher education.