Gulzada Baltabekovna Sargizova
Senior Lecturer, Department of Social Sciences and Human Development; Master of Humanities
The key priorities presented in the 2026 State-of-the-Nation Address by Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev represent a natural continuation of the 2025 Address, “Kazakhstan in the Era of Artificial Intelligence: Current Challenges and Solutions Through Fundamental Digital Transformation.” While last year’s Address outlined strategic directions for AI development and digital transformation, this year’s focus is centered on driving tangible real-world outcomes.
Specifically, key priorities include building a digital economy, expanding supercomputing infrastructure and data centers, and leveraging advanced technologies for public benefit. The President’s firm stance that digitalization must transcend mere technological adoption to deliver concrete economic and social value reflects the need for qualitative societal progress. This policy continuity demonstrates a clear alignment with long-term national goals. For higher education, this creates an imperative to train highly skilled professionals equipped with critical thinking and adaptability to rapid technological change.
While supporting educational innovation, I believe it is equally essential to complement digital competencies with moral and ethical values, historical consciousness, and respect for national heritage among youth. A modern university’s mission extends beyond technical instruction; it must cultivate critical inquiry, research integrity, and civic responsibility. Technological growth must remain deeply rooted in cultural heritage. Therefore, integrating innovative methodologies with a strong humanities foundation is critical to nurturing well-rounded, globally competitive graduates.
