Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan Olzhas Bektenov held a meeting with the founder of the international technology community Network School, Balaji Srinivasan.

The prospects for cooperation in the field of artificial intelligence, training of qualified specialists, development of technological entrepreneurship, and support for startups through the creation of an international innovation hub in the Akmola Region with further expansion to Alatau City were considered. The meeting also discussed joint initiatives, including participation in the AI Film Festival with a prize fund from Balaji Srinivasan, and holding the Network State Conference within the framework of the international forum AI & Digital Bridge with the participation of global technology giants. A practical step in the implementation of the outlined plans was the signing of a Memorandum with the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development on the establishment of Network School.

The main approaches of Network School were presented — an international community uniting entrepreneurs, developers, engineers, and researchers for joint learning and work on technological projects. The format of the platform combines educational programs, coworking, the holding of conferences, hackathons, and acceleration events.

Balaji Srinivasan highly assessed Kazakhstan’s potential in the field of AI and noted the broad prospects for cooperation with global pools of capital and talent. It was emphasized that Network School projects are implemented through private funds, without attracting state financing. During the meeting, the concept of creating a technological town Network City jointly with the akimat and the local community in the village of Burabay was presented. It is planned to build modular infrastructure taking into account the natural landscape and existing urban planning solutions. The site may become a center of attraction for IT specialists, entrepreneurs, and researchers, combining opportunities for work, training, and professional communication.

Olzhas Bektenov noted the importance of attracting international expertise to Kazakhstan and expanding professional ties with the global technology community. The new Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan recognizes the development of human capital, education, science, and innovations as a strategic direction of the state’s activities. Special attention is paid to the role of AI in the country’s development and the protection of citizens’ personal data.

The current year has been declared by the Head of State as the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence. Today, the Nationwide Strategy for Digital Transformation and the Development of Artificial Intelligence Digital Qazaqstan is being implemented in the country. The necessary infrastructure for the development of the digital economy is being created in Kazakhstan. Among the largest projects are Astana Hub and the “Data Center Valley” in Ekibastuz. Educational programs TUMO and Tomorrow School operate on the basis of the International Center for Artificial Intelligence Alem.ai.

The meeting participants noted that cooperation and the implementation of joint projects will make it possible to improve the existing personnel training system and strengthen Kazakhstan’s position as one of the leading international platforms for the development of information technologies. Following the meeting, the Prime Minister instructed the relevant state bodies to assist in the implementation of the project.

#Olzhas Bektenov #Digitalization Commission #Education #Innovation #International Cooperation

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