On October 1, 2026, Mukhamedzhan Tynyshpayev ALT University in Almaty hosted the 7th Eurasian Forum on Transport Safety and Digitalization. This major international conference convened key stakeholders from government ministries, railway and logistics enterprises, academic research centers, technology providers, and industrial corporations to address transport infrastructure modernization, digital integration, and next-generation engineering education. The event brought together railway executives, security technology developers, IT experts, and official delegation heads from railway administrations across Russia, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and other 1520 mm gauge network nations.
Organized as part of ALT University’s 95th-anniversary celebrations, the forum provided a high-level platform for strategic dialogue regarding the future of the transport industry. The conference held significant weight for higher education policy, contextualizing engineering curricula within Kazakhstan’s national infrastructure transformation agenda. Today’s transport and logistics sectors demand not only core engineering fundamentals but also proficiency in digital platforms, artificial intelligence, and automated system diagnostics.
A major milestone of the forum was the official inauguration of state-of-the-art educational laboratories and training centers on the ALT University campus, designed to enhance hands-on technical instruction.
For the first time in institutional history, the university unveiled its new “Railway Infrastructure” outdoor and indoor training testing grounds. This complex allows students to inspect track geometry, signaling hardware, and rolling stock components in production-grade conditions.
Marat Arapbekovich Shakenov, Deputy Chairman of the Board of “NC “Kazakhstan Temir Zholy” JSC, delivered a keynote address and participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new training grounds.
The university also inaugurated the Microprocessor Interlocking Systems Laboratory, named in honor of Kaltai Sambetov — Honorary Railway Worker, veteran industry leader, and the first railway professional awarded the title of “Qazaqstannyñ Eñbek Erı” (Hero of Labor of Kazakhstan).
Additionally, the university opened a dedicated logistics laboratory named after Bolatbek Duisemaliev — distinguished veteran railway worker, honored industry figure, and Secretary-General of the Central Asian Logistics, Transport and Trade Association (CALTA).
This facility is equipped with four enterprise software suites: RAILWAGONLOCATION, ASUP, SOLVO, and “Magistral.” These platforms enable real-time tracking of railcars and container fleets, automated freight scheduling, terminal operations management, and tariff calculations, equipping students with real-world digital supply chain management tools.
In her opening address, Meruert Zharmagambetova, Rector of ALT University, emphasized the university’s strategic role as the primary talent pipeline for the national railway system and underscored the vital partnership with “NC “Kazakhstan Temir Zholy” JSC.
She highlighted that over its 95-year history, the university has trained generations of engineers and executives who now lead key sectors of the transport economy. Amid sweeping infrastructure expansion, cultivating engineers with competencies in automation, digital systems, and smart network operations remains an imperative.
The Rector drew particular attention to the newly established facilities — the railway testing ground, the digitalization space, and the industrial automation center. She noted that developing this infrastructure was made possible through direct support from KTZ, aiming to maximize practical learning outcomes.
“Investing in education is investing in the safety, efficiency, and future of our transport industry,” stated Meruert Zharmagambetova.
Another flagship highlight was the “KTZ–ALT Innovation” Hackathon, which brought together engineering and computer science students. Over 24 continuous hours, participants developed software prototypes addressing real operational challenges provided by “NC “Kazakhstan Temir Zholy” JSC. More than 30 industry mentors guided 46 competing teams comprising nearly 170 students. The competition featured a total prize fund of 2.5 million KZT.
The hackathon aimed to foster digital innovation, engage youth in solving complex logistics challenges, and build a pre-employment talent pipeline for KTZ. The format enabled students to apply classroom knowledge, obtain expert feedback, and demonstrate technological solutions directly to potential employers.
The forum also hosted an exhibition of innovative transport and logistics technologies, showcasing advanced security architectures, monitoring systems, and green transportation solutions.
Hosting this international forum during ALT University’s 95th anniversary highlights the institution’s historic legacy in advancing engineering education in Kazakhstan. Today, ALT University continues this tradition by expanding industry partnerships and creating an educational environment where fundamental academic training is seamlessly integrated with digital tools and hands-on industry experience.
Author: Aliya Yerlan
