Visually-impaired version 
Student Life
University is not just a place for gaining knowledge, but also a platform for self-discovery, strong friendship formation and meeting like-minded people
News
All newsSTUDENT CUP COMPETITION IN MEMORY OF QAJYMUQAN
A significant sporting event was held in Astana – the Student Cup competition dedicated to the memory of the outstanding Kazakh wrestler Qajymuqan Munaitpasov. The tournament brought together student teams from the leading universities of the capital to compete in strength, endurance and team spirit. The event was organised by the Kazakhstan’s Union of Athletesy […]
JASTAR JALYNY: A SPORTS FESTIVAL OF INSPIRATION AND STRENGTH
On 12 November 2024, a large-scale sports festival ‘Jastar Jalyny 2024’ was held in the sports complex of Nazarbayev University, uniting students from the leading universities of the capital. As part of the event, participants competed in the following sports: Special attention was paid to the capital’s universities‘ parade, which opened the festival, demonstrating the […]
WHO IS GOING TO BE THE MNU 2024 STUDENT INITIATION CEREMONY’S HEADLINER?
Dear students and faculty members! We are pleased to invite you to the special event – MNU 2024 Student Initiation Ceremony, which will take place on November 26, 2024. This special event will symbolise the beginning of a new academic journey for the first-year students and will bring great memories for all participants. The MNU […]
CHARITY AUCTION OF GOOD DEEDS BY MLS STUDENTS
We invite everyone to the charity auction organised by the students of the MNU Law School! Date: October 30, 2024Time: 12:00Location: 1st floor (in front of the library). The event will be attended by our professors who will present unique lots ranging from exclusive masterclasses to fascinating books with personal signatures. All raised proceeds will […]
Students Initiation Ceremony
Maqsut Narikbayev University invites everyone to one of the most significant events of the year - Student Initiation Ceremony, which will be held at the Palace of Wrestling named after Zhaksylyk Ushkempirov at the end of November.
Students from four Schools will compete for the Initiation Cup in intellectual, social and creative competitions. Over the course of several months, teams of participants develop projects, dance and theatre performances to demonstrate their talents and skills.
The annual Initiation Ceremony brings together students, faculty and guests in an atmosphere of celebration, friendship and competitive spirit. Winners receive honourable awards and recognition for their contribution to the university's life.
Date: November 26
Place: Zhaksylyk Ushkempirov Wrestling Palace, Astana, Kazakhstan
We look forward to seeing you at this spectacular event!
Events
Throughout the year Maqsut Narikbayev University holds various vivid and significant events which create an atmosphere of unity and charge with energy for the entire year of study.
-
Welcome Party
The annual Welcome Party marks the beginning of the ne...
The annual Welcome Party marks the beginning of the new academic year and is designed to create a warm, friendly atmosphere among first-year students. It is a unique opportunity for new students to get acquainted with university life and MNU traditions.
-
Student Initiation Ceremony
Maqsut Narikbayev University invites everyone to one o...
Maqsut Narikbayev University invites everyone to one of the most significant events of the year - Student Initiation Ceremony, which will be held at the Palace of Wrestling named after Zhaksylyk Ushkempirov at the end of November.
-
Presidential Ball
The Presidential Ball is one of the most exquisite and...
The Presidential Ball is one of the most exquisite and prestigious events of MAQSUT NARIKBAYEV UNIVERSITY, held since 2008 in honour of the first president of the university, Maqsut Narikbayev. Inspired by the world-famous Vienna Ball, the Presidential Ball annually gathers students, faculty and guests in an atmosphere of beauty and elegance.
-
Spring Fest
The annual Spring Fest, which takes place on Themis Sq...
The annual Spring Fest, which takes place on Themis Square in front of MAQSUT NARIKBAYEV UNIVERSITY, is a key event of spring and is held in honour of Nauryz, the festival of renewal and unity. This festival brings together students, guests and representatives of international embassies to celebrate cultural diversity and rich traditions.
-
Graduation
The MNU Graduation Ceremony is one of the largest and ...
The MNU Graduation Ceremony is one of the largest and most significant events of the year. Each year, hundreds of graduates and guests come together to celebrate the completion of their academic journey and the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. This event is imbued with important traditions that emphasise the significance of this moment in students' lives.
Welcome Party
a bright start of the academic year at
Maqsut Narikbayev University
The annual Welcome Party marks the beginning of the new academic year and is designed to create a warm, friendly atmosphere among first-year students. It is a unique opportunity for new students to get acquainted with university life and MNU traditions.
Key features of the Welcome Party:
1. A traditional branded banner - every student can leave their wishes, share their Instagram account or just draw something as a memento. This is a symbolic beginning of their journey at the university.
3. Chill Zone is a cosy seating area where you can relax, try treats from the food courts and shops while enjoying the casual atmosphere.
4. The Photo Booth is a special place to create memories. Everyone can take a photo and keep it as a memorable symbol of participation in this significant event.
Welcome Party is more than just an event; it is the beginning of an unforgettable journey at MAQSUT NARIKBAYEV UNIVERSITY.
Student Initiation Ceremony
Maqsut Narikbayev University
Maqsut Narikbayev University invites everyone to one of the most significant events of the year - Student Initiation Ceremony, which will be held at the Palace of Wrestling named after Zhaksylyk Ushkempirov at the end of November.
Students from four Schools will compete for the Initiation Cup in intellectual, social and creative competitions. Over the course of several months, teams of participants develop projects, dance and theatre performances to demonstrate their talents and skills.
The annual Initiation Ceremony brings together students, faculty and guests in an atmosphere of celebration, friendship and competitive spirit. Winners receive honourable awards and recognition for their contribution to the university's life.
Date: November 26 Place: Zhaksylyk Ushkempirov Wrestling Palace, Astana, Kazakhstan
We look forward to seeing you at this spectacular event!
ISE
MLS
SLA
ISJ
ISE
MLS
SLA
ISJ
Students' Initiation of the International School of Economics
The Maqsut Narikbayev University International School of Economics team, known as ‘Elite’, has become a symbol of success, repeatedly winning the title of student initiation champions in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2019, 2022 and 2023. The energy and strength of the team is embodied in their symbol, the Phoenix, which represents rebirth and the desire for new victories.
The ‘Elite’ is famous not only for its achievements, but also for the incredible energy of the students, who energise those around them with their enthusiasm. The team values the family atmosphere and traditions handed on from generation to generation, including traditional dances that every initiated student knows. The team attracts special attention with its dynamic dances, which have become the trademark of ‘Elite’. Every appearance on stage is a colourful show, emphasising the high level of preparation and creativity of the students.
Fun facts:
• Only ISE has a separate name for the initiation team;
• You can see the team name in the ‘Elite’ logo.
Traditions:
• At the first training session, the freshmen are introduced to the seniors through skits that help them relax and have fun;
• Meeting of first-year students with alumni (former initiates);
Chants:
• ‘Elite once - Elite forever’ - ‘Who are we? Elite! Who are we? Family! Who are we? Champions!’ - ‘Only Elite, only victory’ - ‘God for what? For Elite!’
Students' Initiation of the MNU Law School
Kazakhstan's leading university, proud of its students, especially the students of the MNU Law School. We are the ones who shape the future of the country's legal system. The education received at MNU is highly valued both in Kazakhstan and abroad. Here we do not only study laws, but also learn to apply them in practice, preparing to become leaders and defenders of law and order.
We do not just study law, we live by it, embodying the principles of justice and responsibility. The MLS team are multiple champions of the MNU 30th Anniversary. These victories confirm the strength and leadership of our school. We are proud of our traditions that unite students and create an atmosphere of unity:
Traditions:
• Sobrasm - each group of students prepare a surprise treat for the others;
• Themed weekends - activities on a given theme;
• Secret Angel - a game that creates an atmosphere of caring and friendship;
• Film Day - watching films together;
• Knots - a ritual of farewell to vivid memories;
• Congratulating the birthday person with a cake is an integral part of any birthday party.
Students' Initiation of the School of Liberal Arts
School of Liberal Arts - is not just a school, it is a community where everyone feels important and needed. There is an atmosphere of unity and support, where every student can be themself, surrounded by similarly unique individuals. SLA is a place where you meet really close and valuable people. The mascot of the School of Liberal Arts is the dragon, a symbol of wisdom, strength and power that lives in each of us.
Preparation for the initiation: Two months of preparation, full of emotions that bring the students closer together. Together they overcome both joyful moments and difficult challenges, becoming stronger. Initiation Day: A day filled with colourful emotions where students give their best to win. And then a fun-filled after party where they celebrate their shared success.
Traditions:
• Sobrashki: After practice, SLA students get together to eat, play, dance, and sing. The most touching moment is the singing of the song ‘Sansara’.
• Candlelight: A tradition that gives peace of mind and strengthens the bond between students by allowing everyone to share their thoughts and gratitude.
Chants:
• ‘What is strength? Unity! When we are united, we are invincible! SLA! SLA! SLA!’ In a nutshell, ‘SLA is a place where every student feels part of a whole, where individuality and support are valued.’
Students' Initiation of the International School of Journalism
The International School of Journalism was founded in 2023 and has already become a place where future wordsmiths are born. Our symbol is Mr Fox, a cheerful and energetic fox who loves to dance and energises everyone around him. The school motto is ‘Free Press, Free People’, because freedom of speech is the foundation of our community.
Traditions:
• Sobrasm - after training everyone gets together to eat, socialise and get to know each other better.
• Candlelight - at the end of the initiation, each student, holding a candle, shares their emotions and impressions about the initiation and their journey.
• Game Night - training turns into a fun game marathon where leaders and freshmen participate in different games together.
• Self-Management Day - one day during initiation preparation, freshmen take on leadership roles to get a sense of responsibility and leadership.
• Secret Angel - each student draws a name and anonymously pleases that person with little pleasant surprises during the week.
• Dress Alike Day - everyone comes in matching outfits, creating a sense of unity and teamwork.
• Sports Day - we all go to a sporting event together (hockey, football, basketball, etc.)
• Film Night - we watch a film together.
Chants:
We can be heard everywhere! Is that...ISJ? What you looking for? We got what you looking for! What you looking for? We got what you loo-king for! Go go go go! ISJ's gonna put on a show! 52! Viva Rasul Kargash - the cup is ours!
Presidential Ball
Maqsut Narikbayev University
Key traditions of the Presidential Ball:
1. Opening Polonaise - The Ball begins with a solemn polonaise dance, in which all debutant couples participate. This classical dance sets the atmosphere of elegance and harmony for the entire evening.
2. Favourites' Dance - During the preparation for the ball, the best couples who demonstrate a high level of skill and grace are selected. These selected couples perform a special Favourites' Dance, which becomes the highlight of the evening.
3. Contest for the King and Queen of the Ball - The event concludes with a colourful contest in which four couples compete for the titles of King and Queen of the Ball. Each couple prepares a unique dancing performance, striving to impress the judges with their skills and creativity.
4. Principals' Dance - One of the most moving moments of the evening is the dance of the President's Ball Principals - last year's debutantes - with faculty members, deans and the university's Provost. This dance symbolises continuity and respect for MNU's traditions.
The Presidential Ball is not just an evening of dance, but also a symbol of Maqsut Narikbayev University's cultural heritage and traditions, uniting students, faculty and staff in a celebratory and inspiring atmosphere.
Spring Fest
a bright spring festival at
Maqsut Narikbayev University
Key Spring Fest Traditions:
1. Kiiz Uy - traditional yurts are set up in Themis Square, where a celebratory dastarkhan is organised for the guests of the university and representatives of embassies. This is a symbol of hospitality and national unity.
2. Big pot of Pilav - in the centre of the square a big pot of plov is heated where flavourful pilav is cooked. All participants and guests of the festival can taste this traditional dish, which creates an atmosphere of unity and celebration.
3. Altybakan - the festival features a swing known as Altybakan, a traditional game of the nomadic peoples of Central Asia. This is a place where everyone can have fun riding on these national swings.
4. Embassy Fair - the festival attracts many embassies who set up their tents, organising a fair of national goods and food. Guests can taste traditional treats and see the unique cultural elements of different countries, highlighting the spirit of international co-operation and friendship.
Spring Fest is more than just a celebration. It is a symbol of spring renewal, cultural diversity and warm communication that unites students, faculty and international guests on the territory of Maqsut Narikbayev University.
Graduation
Maqsut Narikbayev University
Key Traditions of the Graduation Ceremony:
1. Alumni Oath - graduates who have been awarded with honours (Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude) or who have been included in the Altyn Kitan list take a solemn oath. These students stand out for their academic excellence and active participation in the life of the university.
2. Time Capsule Placement - every year, alumni leave letters and wishes for future generations, which are placed in a time capsule. This capsule is laid under the star on the main square of the University - Themis Square, symbolising the link between generations.
3. Graduation Cap Tossing - after the graduation ceremony, all graduates simultaneously toss their Graduation Caps into the air, symbolising the joy and completion of an important stage in their lives.
4. ‘Altyn Kitap’ - a special part of the ceremony is dedicated to the students who have made the greatest contribution to the development of student life and distinguished themselves through their academic success. These outstanding graduates are the first to receive their diplomas and their names are forever inscribed in the University's book of honour.
The graduation ceremony is not just about awarding diplomas, it is a symbolic and emotional moment when students wave goodbye to the university and enter a new stage of their lives, full of hopes and aspirations.
About us
Our mission
To create a rich and exciting student life, filled with opportunities for self-expression and development. We believe that university is not just a place to learn, but also a platform to find oneself, form strong friendships and find like-minded people.
We aim to create an environment where every student can fulfil their potential, broaden their horizons and become part of a community committed to personal and collective growth. Our goal is to help you not only acquire professional skills, but also discover a path to self-fulfilment, by opening up new horizons and opportunities for you to implement your ideas.
Together we will overcome obstacles, develop talents and aim for greater goals. We aim to ensure that each of us can contribute to the development of society, serve the common good and build a bright future. Join us to make your student life truly vivid, exciting and meaningful.
Creativity
Stand Up
Stand Up is a student organisation dedicated to the art of comedy and intelligent humour. We created this platform for students who want to develop their stand-up comedy skills, share clever ideas and enjoy unique and clever jokes. Our mission is to make fun and sense of wit an integral part of student life, foster creative expression and create a positive and fun community.
Amangeldy Studious
Amangeldy Studious is a dynamic student organisation dedicated to the art of film and video making. We bring together creative people with a passion for scriptwriting, film and video production to develop their skills and realise ambitious ideas. Our mission is to provide a platform for students to express themselves through film and video production. We believe that the art of storytelling is a powerful tool that can change the world and inspire people. At Amangeldy Studious, we strive to create an environment where everyone can reach their potential, regardless of their experience level.
Umit
Art in its most exquisite and majestic manifestation is theatre. It reveals the whole human soul through a single performance, sometimes helping to find solutions to certain problems and giving sincere emotions, making everyone think and, if necessary, educate. This art is full of mysteries, and it is impossible to imagine the world of culture and spirituality without theatre. The main goal of our student amateur theatre, which is called ‘ Umit’ (hope), is this. Hope is an environment of sincere emotions and warmth. Theatre teaches each of its participants responsibility and proper use of time, creating an atmosphere of loyal friends and unforgettable student years. Theatre is a school of art, and ‘ Umit’ is a hearth of civilisation. With the slogan ‘The more theatres, the less prisons’, our theatre, which was started among developing students, currently has two high profile performances and several poetry evenings held together. Theatre is essential for students to develop Kazakh culture, art and language within the walls of the university.
MNU ORCHESTRA
MNU ORCHESTRA is an orchestra of national instruments that promotes the musical heritage and unique spiritual wealth of the Kazakh people.
Cyber sport MNU
Cyber sport MNU is a student organisation that runs tournaments for students, bringing gamers together and giving them the opportunity to showcase their talents and make new friends!
TheActre
TheActre is a theatre organisation that produces plays and develops students' creative skills.
VIA
VIA are those who create and make music. We are the ones you have seen at many events at our university. In VIA everyone can be themselves and not be shy. In VIA everyone finds something special, someone finds friends, someone finds their work of life, someone finds love. In VIA, as well as in our country, there are a lot of people of different nationalities, where different cultures harmonise with each other. You do not come to VIA because of obligations, you come to VIA only because you want to create music and enjoy the process. VIA is a close-connected team of creative like-minded people, where everyone is friends with each other.
MNU Times
MNU Times is a student-led creative community of photographers, videographers, content creators, social media specialists and graphic designers. We tell the story of every event at the university - from major festivals to intellectual quizzes. Everyone finds their place here, discovering their talents, making friends or even their life's work. We film behind the scenes of events, share candid moments and hold masterclasses for our residents, helping each other grow and develop. At MNU Times, everyone is a friend, colleague, and like-minded individual striving for self-expression and creative development. Closing the letter C in CSI with us is not only productive, but also fun, as together we unlock each participant's potential.
Namaste
Namaste is an organisation in which to develop spiritually and physically, our mission is to promote yoga, meditation and an active, healthy lifestyle.
AINALAIYN
AINALAIYN is a media club that brings together initiative and creative students. We find and cover current news related to university life. We strive to become the voice of the student community. However, we do not only cover important events, but also create our own! Our club consists of 4 departments: writing, video, radio and smm. We look forward to having you in our club!
Yellow Daily
If you enjoy organising events within the walls of the university, then the doors of our organisation are open to you and the opportunity to realise your creative potential.
Grafit
Grafit is MNU's art club that covers Creativity. We invite students into the world of artistic creativity and aesthetics. We create, paint, and derive energy from creativity. For us, it is a way to develop the inner world and imagination, to see familiar things from a new perspective. So, we bring together people with different thoughts and ideas, and our organisation supports each of them, uniting everyone - regardless of age, major and views.
Service
Enactus (Entrepreneurial Action Us)
Enactus (Entrepreneurial Action Us) is an international non-profit organisation that brings together students, academic leaders and business leaders to solve social problems using an entrepreneurial approach. Enactus participants develop and implement projects that help improve the lives of individuals and society while gaining valuable leadership and business skills and experience. The organisation holds various competitions and events where teams from different countries can showcase their projects and share ideas.
Woman's Mentoring Club
Woman's Mentoring Club is about supporting female students and employees at MNU to develop leadership skills, increase motivation and build confidence in their own abilities and potential.
Animal Law Society
Animal Law Society is an organisation dedicated to the protection of animal rights and the promotion of ethical and caring attitudes towards animals in society. We are a non-profit organisation dedicated to creating an informed and responsible approach to animal rights.
IrBIS
IrBIS is a student organisation dedicated to environmental education: exploring the main ideas of modern environmentalism and discussing environmental issues ranging from regional to global scale. At the same time, our members, together with other student organisations, regularly implement environmental activities.
GREETERS
We, the GREETERS organisation, would like to give a little memo about what we are! It's probably worth highlighting a part of our team like Buddies. Who are they? Buddies are your first academic tutors who will be with you from start to finish. They will help you with your academic questions, help you get used to the learning environment and are always in touch with you! And you might say that by doing so, they are making a small contribution to our university community. But that's not all! Our whole team is also actively involved in charity work. Number of events were held, where our participants were volunteers and brought good for people! Thus, our job is to help! We are always happy and ready to help and support you, because we are your Buddies!
Zhanshuak
Zhanshuak is a charitable organisation that helps those in need. We work to improve people's lives through projects to support children and the elderly. Our goal is to make the world a better and more kind place.
Jastar Ruhy
A youth organisation uniting more than 100 thousand young people who are patriots, striving for knowledge, hardworking, loyal to their homeland, loving their country and land.
The MNU Volunteers League
The MNU Volunteers League is an association of MNU students aimed at organising and conducting volunteer events, supporting social initiatives and developing a culture of volunteering at the university and beyond.
The Student Governance Organisation
The Student Governance Organisation is a special organisation that acts as a bridge between the students and the management. Purpose: to solve various student problems, to prevent them from occurring and to develop the university.
Intelligence
QuizEmes
QuizEmes is an organisation set up by a group of student friends with the aim of benefiting the community. The original intention was to encourage students (participants) to absorb knowledge more easily through game play via interesting, mind-expanding questions. In the next academic year, the organisation plans to organise activities such as ‘meet the guests’, various ‘quests’, ‘games’, ‘weeks’ and aims to make a positive impact both at university and city level.
Mental Health Club
Mental Health Club is the first organisation in the history of MNU founded by students majoring in Psychology. The purpose of our organisation and what do we do? Our main goal is to create a supportive community that cares about your mental health. To spread interesting and informative information about psychology, on instagram, by holding social psychological trainings and film nights.
Empower
Empower is an organisation that promotes feminism and highlights important gender equality issues.
MNU BUSINESS CLUB
MNU BUSINESS CLUB is a student-led organisation that brings together business people and entrepreneurs to share experiences, and establish business contacts. Our club provides a platform for networking, learning and co-operation among members, which contributes to their professional and personal growth.
Case Club
MNU's Case Club is a business case solving club to develop students' skills for professional career development.
Gambit
Gambit is MNU University's chess organisation Our organisation aims to get as many people as possible to become interested in chess and develop their knowledge. Our organisation hosts events such as: -Free chess lessons; -Tournaments (charitable, friendly, online on platforms, on the category, between universities, national); -Master classes from grandmasters of Republic, FIDE Masters, founders of chess schools; -Assistance with employment as a chess coach; -Team building; -Gathering of the organisation's participants; -Charity events, etc. By joining the Gambit organisation, you will not only be able to reach a new level in chess, but you will also be able to make a profit from it.
Hereditas
Hereditas is a historical organisation. The aim of the organisation is to educate students about history and foster a passion for it through weekly discussion meetings on various topics, guest lectures and so on.
LIBERTAS
The student organisation LIBERTAS is a platform for the intellectual development and creative expression of students. Through poetry, literature and cinema, we engage them in an environment that suits their interests and contribute to an enjoyable and interesting pastime.
Pro et Contra
‘Pro et Contra’ is a student organisation at the university dedicated to organising and conducting political discussions, opened in 2012. We create a platform for constructive exchange of opinions and analyses of current political and social topics. Our aim is to foster critical thinking, in-depth understanding of political processes and active participation of students in public life. Join us to express your position, listen to the opinions of others and participate in exciting debates!
Orda OC
Orda OC is a debating organisation. It is a platform where the smartest and quickest compete.
Debate Club ‘Orda’
Debate Club ‘Orda’ is a student organisation that has been actively developing oratory, critical thinking and argumentation within the walls of our university since 2003. For more than 20 years we have been engaged in improving academic knowledge and creating a comfortable community for students of Maqsut Narikbayev University.
Senbonzakura
Senbonzakura is a student organisation at MNU University that brings together lovers of Japanese culture. We hold meetings, discuss manga, anime, traditions and current trends in Japan, organise cultural events and help students to immerse themselves in the culture of this country!
Hermes
Hermes is an organisation that aims to develop the English language within the university through a variety of activities.
Hangyu
Hangyu is a Korean club that brings together all those interested in Korean culture and language.
Moot Court Club ‘IUS PRIVATUM’
Moot Court Club ‘IUS PRIVATUM’ is a voluntary association of students of Maqsut Narikbayev University of School of Liberal Arts, the purpose of which is to assist students in consolidating and improving their legal knowledge, obtaining practical skills for successful application in future professional activities. Covers the letter I (Intelligence) when participating in court games.
The LAWMAKER Science Club
The LAWMAKER Science Club is a place where you can gain a deeper understanding of law and rule-making processes. By studying and discussing legal issues. We organise seminars, lectures, conferences and forums so that you can share knowledge and opinions on various legal topics. We aim to create a space for open dialogue and interaction between students and legal experts. We have a unique opportunity to research and improve legislation together with partners from the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan. We also provide internships from our partners to help you gain professional skills and experience in law. Join us to share knowledge, develop innovative legislation and contribute to improving legal awareness in our society. LAWMAKER is a club committed to intellectual development and understanding of the legal field.
