Forum of Student Assemblies of Kazakhstan: Developing Youth Initiatives and Leadership Skills

On February 18, 2026, an important forum was held at the Kazakh-American Free University, bringing together representatives of student assemblies across Kazakhstan. This event became a landmark for all those who strive to support and develop youth initiatives, as well as promote civic engagement and social interaction among young people.

The forum opened with a welcoming address by Alexander N. Urmashov, Chairman of the Student Assemblies of the Republic of Kazakhstan, who noted the importance of the assemblies’ work in strengthening social harmony, supporting youth initiatives, and developing civic engagement in the region. His speech set the tone for the entire event, emphasizing the importance of youth in shaping the country’s future.

The forum continued with a wide range of discussions on the role of student assemblies in educational and social life. Talgat E. Qilymbekov, Chairman of the Student Assembly of the Abai East Kazakhstan Humanitarian College, emphasized the importance of the assemblies as centers for the civic and patriotic education of youth. In his speech, he emphasized the importance of fostering patriotism and respect for one’s history and culture.

Dilyara T. Töregeldieva, Chair of the Student Assembly of D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University, discussed the media activities of assemblies. She discussed new formats for youth participation in public life through digital and media platforms, which make participation in the university community more accessible and engaging for students.

Ali Zhärdembolñly, Chair of the Student Assembly of the Ust-Kamenogorsk Higher Medical College, shared his experience organizing student self-government, which, in his opinion, is a key to the development of youth and students’ professional growth. He emphasized that active participation in self-government helps students not only develop as individuals but also acquire important skills for their future careers.

Rada I. Yudanova, Chair of the Student Assembly of the Kazakh-American Free University, spoke about the role of youth initiatives in developing the university community. She noted that participation in such initiatives contributes to improving the atmosphere within the university and strengthening ties between students and faculty.

Alina E. Khrushcheva, Chair of the Student Assembly of the Kazakh-Korean Kwangson College, presented the educational environment at her institution, which actively promotes student development in various areas, from academics to cultural and social events.

The forum concluded with a speech by Dilnaz M. Kumarbek, Chair of the Student Assembly of the East Kazakhstan College of Arts named after the People’s Artists Abdullin Brothers. She spoke about the importance of student initiatives for the development of the college and the cultural environment of the region, emphasizing the importance of art as a tool for education and social cohesion. The event served as a shining example of how student assemblies can be a driving force in youth development, facilitating not only the educational process but also fostering active citizenship, patriotism, and professional growth among students. Importantly, such forums provide a platform for exchanging experiences and maintaining connections between various educational institutions and their youth groups.

The Kazakh-American Free University organized an interactive platform on leadership for forum participants, led by Daniel Ballast, Vice President for International Relations. This standalone event became an important part of the forum’s program and provided participants with a unique opportunity to develop their leadership skills.

Daniel Ballast, with his experience and professionalism, actively curated the event, which was dedicated to discussing key aspects of leadership, such as team management, decision-making under uncertainty, and motivating and inspiring others. The platform included practical exercises and case studies that allowed participants to apply theoretical knowledge in practice and demonstrate their leadership skills.

The event was an important step in developing active and responsible young people capable of assuming leadership roles and contributing to the development of their communities. Forum participants were able to not only gain useful knowledge and practical tools for further leadership development but also establish connections with like-minded individuals, which will help them implement their own initiatives in the future.