MNU CEGREG Hosts First Student Conference on International Relations

On 15 May 2025, the Center for Global and Regional Governance (CEGREG) at Maqsut Narikbayev University held its inaugural Student Conference on International Relations, Foreign Policy and Diplomacy — a significant milestone in CEGREG’s mission to promote student research and academic engagement.

Under the theme “Navigating Global Uncertainties: Central Asia and the Future of International Order,” the conference brought together about 45 participants presenting over 25 student research papers. In addition to students from MNU, we were pleased to welcome contributions from Astana IT University and Nazarbayev University, enriching the academic diversity of the event. 

The keynote speech was delivered by Dr. Bakhytzhan Kurmanov, Senior Research Fellow at the University of Central Asia. A former faculty member at MNU and a prolific contributor to Central Asian studies, Dr. Kurmanov offered a thoughtful and inspiring address titled “Being a Social Scientist in Central Asia,” sharing valuable reflections on academic inquiry and intellectual engagement in the region.

During the session, Zhan-Tore Ayazbekov, Director of ISE Career Center presented the first issue of the CEGREG Research Digest produced in collaboration with the ISE Career Center, highlighting opportunities for students in research, internships, and international academic events. The Digest will serve as a regular channel for promoting student development.

The conference continued with two rounds of parallel panels, comprising a total of eight panels. Each panel was moderated by MNU professors or CEGREG researchers and featured presentations across diverse themes — including multi-vector foreign policy, strategic resources, cybersecurity and digital geopolitics, public governance, regional identity, and the role of international organizations. Panels concluded with Q&A segments, enabling presenters to receive constructive academic feedback and develop their research further.

This conference marks the beginning of what we envision as an annual tradition at CEGREG — a platform for emerging scholars to exchange ideas, present research findings, and engage with faculty and peers in a rigorous yet supportive environment. CEGREG remains committed to fostering inclusive academic spaces that elevate Kazakhstan’s and Central Asia’s perspectives in global governance and international affairs.