On September 3, 2026, the Institute of Smart Systems and Artificial Intelligence (ISSAI) at Nazarbayev University welcomed representatives of the National Bank of Kazakhstan to discuss potential areas of collaboration.
ISSAI was represented by Dr. Atakan Varol, General Director; Yerbol Absalyamov, Executive Director; Amina Baikenova, Acting Deputy Director of Product and External Affairs; Ulzhan Alibek, External Affairs Manager and Liliya Tleukenova, General Manager of Career and Advising Center.
The National Bank of Kazakhstan delegation was led by Erlan Durmagambetov, First Deputy Head of the Digital Center for Development, and included Adilet Mukhitov, Alisher Koshchegulov, Nail Kamilov, Zhanarys Zhandeldinov, and Sanat Seidualiyev.
During the meeting, representatives of the National Bank presented their ongoing educational initiatives aimed at developing AI and digital skills among young people in Kazakhstan. They also discussed potential internship opportunities for Nazarbayev University students to gain practical experience in the field of artificial intelligence and digital technologies.
The two sides also discussed potential research and development projects, exploring opportunities to combine the expertise and resources of ISSAI and the National Bank in developing AI-based solutions.
Another key topic was the potential signing of a Memorandum of Understanding during AI & Digital Bridge 2026, which would provide a framework for further cooperation between the two organisations.
The meeting concluded with a shared interest in strengthening cooperation in education, research and development, and the practical application of artificial intelligence. Both sides agreed to continue discussions and work towards identifying specific joint initiatives and opportunities for collaboration.