Visually-Impaired Version 
This year, around 700 young specialists earned their bachelor’s degrees from Maqsut Narikbayev University. Representatives of the 30th anniversary graduating class expressed their gratitude to the University and shared their personal stories.
Aydana Kydyrkhan, a graduate of the International School of Economics, said that her journey to MNU began with a mix of excitement and uncertainty.
“It seemed to me that I was just trying. But today, I stand here as an employee of one of the Big Four companies, and I know that the decision to follow my dream was the right one. MNU has become not just a university for me, but a place where I found myself,” said Aydana Kydyrkhan.
She recalled how, during her scholarship interview, she promised to promote the University — and later became an ambassador, turning that promise into action.
Meanwhile, Bakyt Sakishova spoke at the graduation ceremony on behalf of the anniversary class. The graduate of the International School of Economics emphasised that the University had taught her not only professional skills but also flexibility, self-organisation, and the ability to act in uncertain conditions. Today, she works successfully at PwC, one of the Big Four firms providing audit services.
“During these four years, thanks to the mentoring and opportunities MNU offered, I completed internships at major companies and participated in numerous case championships. Our University taught us perseverance and self-belief. We tackled everything — from deadlines and exams to case competitions and international trips. We grew, we persevered. And now, new horizons lie ahead,” Bakyt Sakishova shared.
Bakytnur Aitmukhambetova, a graduate of the MNU Law School, spoke about the importance of inner principles and overcoming limitations. Through the academic mobility programme, she also studied at the University of Liège (Belgium) and represented Kazakhstan as part of the MNU team at the prestigious Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot.
“Everyone has limits. But MNU taught us not to fear them, but to understand what we want to be truly unlimited in. Today, we step into the world not only with a diploma but with a deeper awareness of our capabilities,” she emphasised.
She also noted that the University had become a place where success was determined not by names or connections, but by hard work, intellect, and conviction.
Dayana Abylkas, a graduate of the School of Liberal Arts, spoke about leadership, responsibility, and personal growth. In 2024, she was elected President of the MNU Student Government. According to her, the University has become a school of leadership, where every student can realise their potential not only academically but also through student life.
“Every decision and every effort here shaped not only our experience but also our character. This diploma is not just a result — it is a symbol of who we have become,” said Dayana Abylkas.
This year also marked the first graduation of the International School of Journalism. Graduate Tansu Ospan highlighted the importance of dreaming, even in times of uncertainty and global crises.
“In a world where glaciers are melting, rivers and trust are disappearing, where wars intensify and disinformation spreads, dreaming has become an act of courage. That is probably why I chose journalism: to go where it is difficult and to speak when it is easier to remain silent. To put people at the centre — not a sensational story. Not to let what can still be saved disappear,” said Tansu Ospan.
Despite differences in major, direction, and life paths, all graduates shared one thing: Maqsut Narikbayev University became a space for opportunity, growth, discovery, and a real student life they will always cherish.
On 9 July, the University celebrated its 30th graduation ceremony at the newly inaugurated Themis Square.
