Visually-Impaired Version 
The Zhaksylyq Ushkempirov Martial Arts Palace in Astana hosted the official Initiation Ceremony for students of Maqsut Narikbayev University (MNU). During the ceremony, first-year students delivered the University’s Student Oath.
The University’s flagship event brought together more than five thousand attendees, including Members of the Mazhilis of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, representatives of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, the Akimat of Astana, diplomatic missions, international companies, public organisations, media representatives, international partners, students and their parents, as well as faculty, staff and alumni of MNU. The Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan congratulated the participants.
“Maqsut Narikbayev University is one of the institutions established on the principles of fairness, justice and the rule of law. The University has laid strong foundations for academic integrity. Moreover, MNU is known across the country for the quality of its education, its high-level international accreditations, its alumni association and its service to society,” emphasised Sayasat Nurbek.
The large-scale show was held under the theme Arman Iesi. Think. Create. Lead. During the event, students unfolded the largest flag of Kazakhstan, measuring 800 sq m, along with a large flag representing the Law and Order narrative, measuring around 300 sq m. These displays served as a vivid demonstration of patriotism and human values, symbolising resilience, the rule of law and trust in state institutions.
“The theme Arman Iesi. Think. Create. Lead. is a call to the new generation to think more broadly, create more boldly and move forward with honesty and wisdom, in order to take ownership of their dreams and their future. In a world where artificial intelligence can provide any answer, what truly matters is not merely possessing knowledge, but the ability to comprehend, analyse, reflect and feel. The leaders of the future are those who move the world forward with their ideas and achievements,” noted MNU Provost Anar Ibrayeva.
A highlight of the evening was the traditional competition among the University’s four schools for the Initiation Cup. As part of the contest, students presented social projects and delivered theatrical performances aligned with the event’s theme, reflecting the proper pursuit of one’s aspirations, the ability to manage ambitions, build one’s own path and transform ideas into concrete action in the era of artificial intelligence. It is worth noting that in his Address to the People of Kazakhstan, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasised the significant impact of the rapid development of AI on young people and their adaptation to profound global changes.
The performances were evaluated by a jury comprising MNU alumni, representatives of the city administration, public associations and charitable foundations. The International School of Economics emerged as the winner. In addition, the International School of Journalism received a special award from the University leadership for its creative and vibrant performance.
“It is an incredible feeling to experience victory. We invested considerable effort, prepared for several months, gained new friends and invaluable experience. Our school has retained its champion title in the year of its 20th anniversary,” said Arailym Amirkhan, a student of the International School of Economics at MNU.
The event concluded with performances by the popular singer Yenlik and the legendary ensemble Dos-Muqasan.
