The International Conference INNOVA – 2025: Synergy of Education and Business – Training the Professionals of the Future was held under auspices of the Year of Vocational Professions.
The conference gathered representatives from major regional employers such as KamLitKZ LLP, AgromashHolding KZ JSC, Baitursynuly University, and over 15 vocational colleges from across the Kostanay region.
Opening the conference, Elmira Nauryzbaeva, Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs at KRU, emphasized the importance of strong partnerships between educational institutions and businesses. She highlighted the importance of matching training with industry demands.
A central focus of the forum was the transformation of vocational education in response to a fast-changing economy. Speakers explored a range of topics – from how AI shifts learning environments, to strategies for integrating dual education models.
Colleagues from the Kostanay College of Automobile Transport, Kostanay Construction College, Arkalyk Polytechnic College, Sarykol College of Agribusiness and Law, and Katanov Khakass State University took part in panel discussions.
The discussion centered on how education and business can work hand in hand, enhancing teaching methods, and finding effective ways to train highly qualified professionals in a rapidly evolving economy.
Training mentors and involving specialists from the industry to work in technical and vocational education institutions create a solid foundation for the sustainable development of technical and vocational education. This initiative allows students to gain valuable hands-on to experience, which greatly increases their competitiveness in the labor market.
In total, 88 representatives from Kazakhstan and Russian universities and colleges contributed to the conference’s academic proceedings.
More than just a venue for presentations, INNOVA – 2025 served as a platform for building ties between companies and colleges, conducting career guidance for young people, and promoting vocational professions through modern and engaging outreach.
