Professional development and employment of graduates are discussed at ENU

The Eurasian National University hosted an international forum “Professional Development and Employment of Graduates: Current Labor Market Trends, Challenges and Opportunities” where experts discussed issues of lifelong learning, improving students’ entrepreneurial and professional skills, and university participation in international educational projects.

The forum was attended by representatives of government agencies, business, Kazakhstani and foreign universities, experts from European countries, the National Office of Erasmus+ in Kazakhstan, employment and educational centers. In his video address, Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan Sayasat Nurbek noted that now we live in the paradigm of “lifelong learning” and it is necessary to constantly improve one’s skills.

ENU Rector proposed to create experimental programs together with employers, teachers, students and graduates.

“The purpose of the university is to train highly qualified specialists for our industry and to educate a comprehensively developed intellectual. Now the number of specialists who have received ENU diplomas is increasing in responsible positions in various fields of economics. In recent years, we have approached the 90% graduate employment rate. We have created a platform that unites our graduates and employers. We are constantly expanding cooperation with employers and prioritize a practice-oriented approach. We are implementing joint education programs, opening branches of departments to conduct the practical part of training,” Rector said.

Vice-Minister of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan Olzhas Ordabayev focused on the importance of lifelong learning. He noted that young people should constantly study, overcome dogmas, adapt quickly and be flexible in the labor market.

“Now the validity of knowledge is celebrated in 2 years. Every 2 years one has to learn something new. In a changing world, the role of universities is only growing. Actions must be taken to ensure that students return for further training. I think that ENU is one of the examples in this case,” the speaker said.

Within the framework of the forum, panel sessions were held on the topics “Assessing the Impact of European Projects on the Development of Universities in Central Asia”, “Improving Students’ Entrepreneurial Skills through Entrepreneurship Training Programs”, “Building Bridges: Developing Professional Ties at University to Strengthen Business Network”, “Professional Development and Career Growth: How to Develop Graduate Skills for Successful Careers”, “Financial Support for Private Companies and Organizations: Scholarships, Sponsorship, Grants and Partnerships as a Long-Term Source of Support for University Students”, “How a University Can Keep in Touch with Graduates to Share Experiences and Opportunities for Collaboration”.