On February 19, 2025, the Principal of Ybyrai Mektebi in Kulynzhon village, East Kazakhstan, Aralbek Berikuly, along with his deputy, Birzhan Auezov, visited the Institute for Smart Systems and Artificial Intelligence (ISSAI). During their visit, they learned about the institute’s work and explored opportunities for collaboration. 

ISSAI demonstrated several of its key projects, including Soyle, Oylan, and Aibike, showcasing advancements in AI-powered language learning, education, and research tools. They also had the opportunity to engage with ISSAI’s data scientists and researchers, discussing the impact of these technologies. In turn, the school representatives presented an overview of the development of Ybyrai Mektebi in recent years, highlighting key milestones and improvements. Ybyrai Mektebi is the first experimental rural school of its kind aimed at transforming educational opportunities for students in remote areas.

During their visit, the representatives also expressed their interest in ISSAI’s Summer Research Program (SRP) for school students.

Since 2021, ISSAI has been organizing the Summer Research Program (SRP) to provide talented students from Kazakhstan and beyond with practical experience and knowledge in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Deep Learning, data algorithms, and related fields. Participants collaborate with ISSAI’s data scientists and researchers, gaining invaluable exposure to real-world applications of AI. Applications for SRP 2025 are open until March 10, 2025.

The program has gained increasing recognition over the years. In 2024, ISSAI received over 300 applications from both local and international school students. After a competitive selection process, 26 outstanding students were chosen to participate. Among them was Yerassyl Yerlanuly, a student from Ybyrai School in Kulynzhon village, East Kazakhstan, who had the opportunity to develop his skills in AI and related fields.

ISSAI actively encourages talented school students, particularly those from rural regions of Kazakhstan, to apply for the program. Students interested in AI, Robotics, and emerging technologies are invited to take advantage of this opportunity to develop their expertise and collaborate with leading researchers.