On July 16, 2026, during ISSAI Connect, the Institute of Smart Systems and Artificial Intelligence (ISSAI) at Nazarbayev University and Digital Technologies and Artificial Intelligence Development Research Institute (AIRI) under the Ministry of Digital Technologies of the Republic of Uzbekistan signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a framework for long-term collaboration in artificial intelligence research, innovation, talent development, and knowledge exchange.
The memorandum reflects both institutions’ shared commitment to advancing AI technologies that address regional and global challenges through joint research initiatives, academic cooperation, exchange of expertise, and the development of innovative AI solutions. The partnership also aims to strengthen collaboration between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.
Following the signing of the memorandum, on July 17, the AIRI delegation visited the ISSAI office on the Nazarbayev University campus. The delegation was led by Islomjon Baykhanov, Deputy Director, and included Nafisa Tolibova, Machine Learning Engineer; Hojiakbar Abdulhakimov, Software Engineer; Ilxom GaffarovIlxom, Software Engineer; Islom Mamadiyev, Software Engineer; and Kamoliddin Nishonov, Software Engineer.
The ISSAI team was represented by Dr. Huseyin Atakan Varol, General Director; Yerbol Absalyamov, Executive Director; Askat Kuzdeuov, Lead Data Scientist; Adema Sharipova, Junior Data Scientist; Aigerim Sarsenova, Senior External Affairs Manager; and Ulzhan Alibek, External Affairs Manager.
During the meeting, both institutions presented their respective organizations, highlighting their missions, ongoing research initiatives, and strategic priorities. The AIRI delegation showcased several of their current projects, including AI applications in healthcare, educational technologies, and speech and emotion recognition. ISSAI also introduced its flagship research initiatives and technological developments. The discussions explored opportunities for future joint projects in these and other areas of mutual interest.
As part of their visit, the AIRI delegation also toured the Irgetas High Performance Computing Cluster and the ARMS Laboratory at Nazarbayev University. The delegation expressed their appreciation for the state-of-the-art infrastructure and were highly impressed by the facilities, recognizing their important role in supporting cutting-edge research and innovation.
The newly signed Memorandum of Understanding provides a foundation for sustained cooperation between ISSAI and AIRI. By combining their expertise, research capabilities, and regional perspectives, the two institutions aim to accelerate AI innovation, foster the exchange of knowledge and best practices, support the development of highly skilled AI professionals, and contribute to the growth of the artificial intelligence ecosystem across Central Asia.