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 newsMNU 2024 STUDENT INITIATION: CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF TRADITION, UNITY, AND KINDNESS
On November 26, one of the most remarkable and vibrant events of the year was held at the Zhekpe-Zhek Arena — the MNU 2024 Student Initiation Ceremony, commemorating the university’s 30th anniversary. From the very beginning, the event captivated participants and spectators with an atmosphere of inspiration, creativity, and unity. The University’s four Schools showcased […]
STUDENT 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 […]
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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.