On December 11, 2025, Almaty Management University (AlmaU) officially opened the AlmaU AI Lab Center for Artificial Intelligence at the School of Digital Technologies and Economics. The new platform is designed to connect education, science, industry, and entrepreneurship, DKNews.kz reports.
The university aims not merely to introduce technologies, but to shape a new approach in which artificial intelligence serves society, the economy, and the development of cities. At AlmaU, this evolves into the concept of “Tolyq AI”, derived from the philosophy of Abai’s “Tolyq Adam” — an artificial intelligence model developed under the guidance of ethics, humanity, and social purpose.
“Artificial intelligence is a powerful engine, but not a compass. The direction is still set by humans. We are not afraid that artificial intelligence will replace people. We are afraid of people who work like robots. AlmaU trains creators, not executors,” noted AlmaU’s founder and president Assylbek Kozhakhmetov in his opening remarks.
The first task of the new Center is to update education and strengthen the university’s research capacity. AI platforms Oqulabs and Delicatest, developed by Professors Timur Bakibayev and Kuan ysh Abeshev, have already been integrated into AlmaU’s academic programs. These platforms automate the assessment of complex assignments, analyze student behavior to detect dishonesty, and provide objective performance analytics.
The research foundation of the Center has been formed within targeted and grant-funded projects, including programs on technological diversification and digital transformation of the agricultural sector. Through these projects, AlmaU Labs has been equipped with two mini-supercomputers provided by ASUS and ZERDE Business Solutions.
The second key objective is collaboration with the public sector and addressing the needs of the real economy. The first pilot project is being implemented with JSC “Kostanay Minerals.” The team developed an AI model for predicting ore moisture levels, which has shown significant economic impact during testing and demonstrated strong potential for production process optimization. AlmaU Labs is also ready to develop solutions for transport, environmental protection, urban safety, and resource management.
“This center has tremendous potential for developing practical solutions for Almaty. Next year, together with AlmaU, we plan to create several successful products to improve the urban environment, with a focus on fostering AI-driven startups,” stated Olzhas Zhanabek, Head of the Digitalization Department of the city of Almaty.
The third area of focus is entrepreneurship development. Students from across Kazakhstan will be able to create their own AI products, participate in startup competitions, take part in acceleration programs, access partner data and funding, and implement their solutions in companies and public institutions.
As part of the opening ceremony, AlmaU signed memorandums of cooperation with Almaty HUB, the Almaty City Akimat, Teachers Lab, and Tech People Community. The event also featured a panel discussion on the future of artificial intelligence in education, “AI in Education.” Participants discussed the role of ethical AI applications, the digitalization of educational processes, the training of specialists, and the importance of international standards in shaping the future of the education system.
The opening of the AlmaU AI Lab represents a significant step toward advancing the educational, research, public-sector, and entrepreneurial ecosystem in Kazakhstan. This initiative accelerates the country’s digital transformation and contributes to the creation of a new educational landscape aligned with international standards.
