Year: 2026

ASTANA, Kazakhstan, Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Beeline Kazakhstan, in partnership with Starlink Mobile, is launching satellite mobile connectivity based on Direct to Cell technology. The technology will allow users to access selected communication services on compatible smartphones beyond the coverage of terrestrial mobile networks.

The introduction of Starlink Mobile is the result of agreements reached during President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s official visit to the United States in 2025.

Photo Credit: Beeline Kazakhstan

“In autumn 2025, during President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s official visit to the United States, Kazakhstan reached an agreement on the introduction of Starlink Mobile (Direct to Cell) satellite connectivity. Today, we are seeing this agreement become a reality. Kazakhstan has become the first country in Central Asia where Direct to Cell has undergone practical testing and is now moving to the user service stage,” said Zhaslan Madiyev, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The technology provides a direct connection between a compatible smartphone and Starlink Mobile satellites without the need for a dedicated satellite phone, external antenna or additional equipment. Users will be able to send and receive messages, as well as access to select apps in areas without terrestrial mobile network coverage. For Beeline Kazakhstan customers, the service will be available free of charge during the promotional period.

For Kazakhstan, with its vast territory, satellite mobile connectivity is of particular importance, creating additional opportunities for communication from hard-to-reach areas and where terrestrial infrastructure has been damaged.

“Beeline has been operating in Kazakhstan for more than twenty years, and throughout this time we have consistently invested in the development of connectivity and new technologies. Kazakhstan is one of the largest countries in the world by territory, and distance should not become a barrier to people’s access to modern technologies. The development of digital infrastructure is a long-term investment in the country’s competitiveness and quality of life and we are proud to be able to support this crucial infrastructure development,” said Kazakhstani businessman and investor of the Verny Capital Group, Bulat Utemuratov.

SOURCE: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/starlink-satellite-to-mobile-service-launched-in-kazakhstan-302896175.html?tc=eml_cleartime

NEW YORK, Sept. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Bulat Utemuratov Foundation will become a regional partner of the Global Autism Advocacy Coalition (GAAC) and will establish a hub for the countries of Central Asia and the South Caucasus. The new platform will bring together the expertise of international and regional organizations to develop systemic support for people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

The hub’s primary objective will be to adapt and implement international practices in line with the specific characteristics of the countries in the region. It will unite specialists, relevant organizations, and government representatives to facilitate the exchange of expertise, and promote broader access to evidence-based approaches, research, and data.

GAAC was established in 2025 at the United Nations headquarters in New York with the participation of Qatar Foundation, Autism Speaks, the World Health Organization, and UNICEF. The Bulat Utemuratov Foundation was a founding member of the Coalition. The creation of the regional hub marks the next stage of the Foundation’s cooperation with GAAC and will enable the further advancement of the Coalition’s initiatives.

The regional GAAC model for Central Asia and the South Caucasus was presented by Almaz Sharman, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, in New York in September 2026, during the UN General Assembly.

“For the sustainable development of support systems for people with autism, it is not enough to have proven solutions – it is equally important to create the conditions for their adaptation and implementation in accordance with national and regional contexts,” said Almaz Sharman.

The foundation for this work will be the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation’s many years of experience implementing the ‘Autism. One World for All’ program under which 13 Asyl Miras autism centers operate across 12 cities in Kazakhstan, supporting more than 17,500 children with ASD. The program encompasses the development of diagnostics and early intervention, specialist training, and the introduction of new support models.

“In recent years, Kazakhstan has accumulated significant practical experience in supporting children with autism and their families, in large part thanks to the specialists at the Asyl Miras autism centers. It is important to us that the knowledge gained in Kazakhstan becomes part of the international dialogue,” said Ainur Karbozova, CEO, Bulat Utemuratov Foundation.

SOURCE: https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/the-bulat-utemuratov-foundation-and-gaac-to-establish-a-regional-autism-hub-for-central-asia-and-the-south-caucasus-302892912.html

The Bulat Utemuratov Foundation unveiled the deployment of 460 million tenge, (around USD 1 million) towards the gasification of residential private properties in Almaty. Undertaken in collaboration with the Akimat of the city of Almaty (Office of the Mayor), the joint venture seeks to upgrade city infrastructure, elevate residential living standards, and boost air quality across the city.

Photo Credit: Bulat Utemuratov Foundation

The Akimat of the city of Almaty, has agreed to examine private properties, liaise with occupants on the connection process and deliver thorough guidance around the shift to natural gas heating. The required building and system installation work will then be handled by certified contractors.

Darkhan Satybaldy, Akim (Mayor) of Almaty, emphasized: “We continue targeted work to connect private homes to the city’s gas supply network. The requirements may vary in each case, which is why it is important to comprehensively support residents, from consultations to the actual connection, alongside technical work. The support of socially responsible businesses allows us to broaden this initiative.”

Throughout colder months, private residences using carbon-heavy fuels for heating are considerable contributors to air pollution. Moving these homes away from coal to natural gas is a key component in strengthening the air quality of Almaty.

Ainur Karbozova, CEO of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, noted: “It is important for us to support a project aimed at developing urban infrastructure and creating more comfortable conditions for the residents of Almaty. The gasification of the private sector will enable families who are not yet connected to the gas supply system to transition to a modern heating method. We are delighted to support this city initiative.”

This gasification project further represents the Foundation’s enduring support for Almaty. Prior to this initiative, the Foundation enabled the upgrade of ventilation and air conditioning infrastructure at the National Central Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan, an extensive redevelopment of the Botanical Garden and the inauguration of one of the first Asyl Miras Autism Centers. As well as these projects, the Foundation reinforced the local healthcare sector during the COVID-19 pandemic, through the delivery of mobile laboratories designed to carry out PCR testing.

SOURCE: https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bulat-utemuratov-foundation-allocates-460-million-tenge-to-support-almaty-gasification-project-302872126.html

ALMATY, Kazakhstan, Sept. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Narxoz Business School has officially received joint accreditation from the Association of MBAs (AMBA) and the Business Graduates Association (BGA), cementing its position among the world’s leading business schools. This dual recognition places Narxoz in the top 2% of global business education providers, alongside elite institutions such as INSEAD, London Business School, and HEC Paris.

Awarded following a rigorous evaluation by international academic leaders, the accreditation recognizes Narxoz’s commitment to high standards, innovation, and continuous development.

Andrew Main Wilson, CEO of AMBA and BGA, said: “I am delighted that Narxoz Business School has received joint AMBA and BGA accreditation. This recognition reflects the school’s commitment to high standards, innovation, and the continuous development of business education. The commission was impressed by the university’s strong academic heritage, its contribution to Kazakhstan’s overall development, and the leadership’s dedication to creating a world-class educational environment for students, alumni, and the business community.”

For Narxoz University, the milestone validates a multi-year transformation into a modern, globally competitive institution. The evaluating commission specifically highlighted the impact of the school’s International Advisory Board and its newly modernized campus infrastructure.

Kanat Kozhakhmet, President of Narxoz University, commented: “This landmark achievement confirms Narxoz’s unique ability to drive deep transformation and achieve results that meet the highest international standards. It was made possible through the long-term vision and support of our shareholder Bulat Utemuratov alongside the professionalism of our team, faculty, alumni, and partners.”

While AMBA evaluates specific program quality, including teaching standards and employer engagement, BGA assesses broader institutional strategy, culture, and societal impact.

Gulnara Kurenkeyeva, Dean of Narxoz Business School, said: “The true value of these dual accreditations is the continuous quality control. We will regularly update our curriculum, assessment methods, and technology to reflect market shifts and employer feedback, ensuring our training remains directly connected to real-world business challenges.”

Over the past 17 years, Narxoz Business School has trained over 3,000 top managers and entrepreneurs across its MBA, Executive MBA, DBA, and corporate programs. As a result of this accreditation, students and alumni will now receive complimentary lifetime membership in the global AMBA community, granting them access to a powerful network of 80,000 professionals across 150 countries.

SOURCE: https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/narxoz-business-school-earns-prestigious-joint-amba-and-bga-accreditation-joining-top-2-of-business-schools-worldwide-302869013.html?tc=eml_cleartime

• Narxoz University ranked first in Kazakhstan and Central Asia for Employment Outcomes in the QS World University Rankings 2027
• University enters the global top-200 in this category, placing it among the top 15% of ranked institutions worldwide
• Dual-degree programs with Queen’s University Belfast, Illinois Tech, Mykolas Romeris University and La Rochelle University support graduate competitiveness globally

ALMATY, Kazakhstan, Aug. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Narxoz University has retained its position as the leading university in Kazakhstan and Central Asia for graduate employment outcomes, according to the QS World University Rankings 2027. The university has also entered the global top-200 in the Employment Outcomes category, placing it among the top 15% of more than 1,500 institutions evaluated worldwide.

The result reflects Narxoz University’s model of connecting academic study directly to labor market demand. Employers and industry experts are involved in shaping curricula and students engage with real-world projects, complete professional internships and build their portfolios. The university also recorded improvements across internationalization indicators, with advances in the Faculty Student Ratio and International Student Ratio band rankings, both rising from 701-800 to 501-600.

International exposure is further extended through dual-degree programs with Queen’s University Belfast, Illinois Tech, Mykolas Romeris University and La Rochelle University, enabling graduates to validate their qualifications to international standards and build professional networks beyond Kazakhstan.

Narxoz University’s overall position of 1001–1200 in the QS World University Rankings 2027 reflects continued progress in its transformation into a university capable of competing internationally for students, faculty and academic partnerships.

Kanat Kozhakhmet, President of Narxoz University, commented: “The value of a degree is measured through a graduate’s development throughout an entire career. We see education as the foundation of a long and purposeful professional journey. We are grateful to the Ministry of Science and Higher Education for its consistent policy and strong support, which helps universities strengthen their connection to the labor market and build a solid foundation for students’ professional development.”

Bulat Utemuratov, shareholder of Narxoz University, commented: “As a graduate of Narxoz myself, this recognition means a great deal. Our strategy has always been to develop Narxoz into a leading university with global recognition, and being ranked among the world’s top 200 for graduate employment outcomes is powerful confirmation that we are on the right track.”

SOURCE: https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/narxoz-university-ranks-1-in-central-asia-for-employment-outcomes-entering-global-top-200-302850766.html?tc=eml_cleartime

Zhezkazgan, Kazakhstan, 3 June 2026 – In honour of International Children’s Day, The Bulat Utemuratov Foundation officially inaugurated the Shabyt Children’s and Youth Creativity Center in Zhezkazgan, marking a historic moment in delivering the city’s most significant facility for children in over 70 years. The USD 7.7 million facility was donated by the Foundation to the city and now offers children across the region access to modern learning, creative, and recreational opportunities.

Photos: The Bulat Utemuratov Foundation

The 2,600-square-meter complex is located in the Western District of Zhezkazgan and has been designed as a comprehensive learning and development centre for children. The facility includes 14 classrooms along with a wide range of specialist spaces, including a STEM hub for robotics, mathematics, and natural sciences, and various creative studios for art, digital design, photography, music, dance, and martial arts. Additional amenities include a pottery workshop, a chess room, an early childhood development center, and a spacious assembly hall.

Almaz Sharman, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, commented: “Supporting education and creating modern infrastructure for children’s development are among the Foundation’s key activities. These projects provide long-term investment in communities and support the future of the country. I am confident that the new Shabyt Center will create leading opportunities for supplementary education and the creative and professional development of children in the region.”

Designed to serve up to 250 children at a time, the center also offers staff facilities, a medical office and coworking spaces. All activities will be offered free of charge, and across multiple shifts, allowing the center to engage as many as 600 children each day.

The complex is set on a 1.6-hectare site featuring sports facilities, playgrounds and landscaped public spaces. Accessibility and inclusion were central to the design, with all spaces adapted to support children with diverse needs. A dedicated sensory room further strengthens the center’s ability to provide an inclusive environment for educational and developmental needs.

Dastan Ryspekov, Akim of the Ulytau Region, who was also present at the opening ceremony, recognised the broader significance of the project: “The new Center is not just a modern building, but a space where children can learn, develop their talents and engage in technology, creativity and sports. These projects create an environment where younger generations gain confidence in their future.”

Among a series of social infrastructure projects, the Center represents the most recent contribution delivered by the Foundation across Kazakhstan. This offering complements earlier projects such as the construction of schools on Yesik and Kosshy, a new airport in Kyzylorda, and a community center in Kosshy.

SOURCE: https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bulat-utemuratov-foundation-opens-shabyt-childrens-and-youth-creativity-center-in-zhezkazgan-302790298.html?tc=eml_cleartime

Astana, Kazakhstan – Following a 3-1 victory over Canada in the Billie Jean King Cup, Kazakhstan’s National Women’s Tennis Team has succeeded in securing a position in the finals.

Photo Credit: Kazakhstan Tennis Federation

With an outstanding performance in the qualifying round, which was held on home grounds in Astana, this outcome marks the fourth time that Kazakhstan has made it to the final stage of the tournament. This achievement follows a consistent streak of high-level performances since 2022, demonstrating both the success and influence of the national programme. Led by commitments to investments in infrastructure, high performance training and player pathways, Kazakhstan’s long-term and methodical approach to tennis development has become highly evident and should certainly not go unnoticed.

With decisive contributions in both singles and doubles, this triumphant outcome serves as a reflection of a strong and cohesive team performance across the two-day tie. In a match lasting three hours and 39 minutes, Yulia Putintseva competed head-to-head against US Open champion Bianca Andreescu, securing a triumph which sealed her qualification in the finals. Meanwhile in an earlier match, Anna Danilina and Zhibek Kulambayeva set the tone with a decisive straight-sets doubles victory against Andreescu and Kayla Cross. The day was further highlighted by Sonja Zhiyenbayeva making her first official appearance for the national team.

In honouring the outcome, Bulat Utemuratov, President of the Kazakhstan Tennis Federation, said: “Qualifying for the final stage of the Billie Jean King Cup is a significant achievement for Kazakhstan tennis, reflecting the continued progress of our national programme. Our team demonstrated resilience, depth and a high level of performance throughout the tie. This result is the outcome of years of focused development and reinforces our commitment to building a strong and competitive tennis ecosystem in Kazakhstan.”

By aligning its facilities with global benchmarks, Kazakhstan has earned global praise, including a Gold Level status for its National Tennis Centre. This reflects the country’s commitment to progress in its successful integration with international standards. In many ways, these robust efforts are helping to establish a sustainable pipeline of elite athletes who are able to consistently compete at the highest levels.

In autumn 2026, The Billie Jean King Cup Finals are expected to be held in Shenzhen, China. In women’s tennis, this event is expected to bring together many of the world’s leading international teams whereby Kazakhstan will compete alongside eight qualifying nations for the title.

Source: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kazakhstan-national-team-qualifies-for-billie-jean-king-cup-finals-302743061.html

ASTANA, Kazakhstan, March 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The National Tennis Centre “Beeline Arena” in Astana has been awarded Gold Level Recognition by the International Tennis Federation (ITF), marking a significant milestone for Kazakhstan’s sports infrastructure and athlete development system.

The Gold Level status confirms that the Center meets the highest international standards for training, governance, infrastructure and integrity. With this recognition, Kazakhstan joins a select group of countries whose national training centers have achieved the same distinction, including France, the United States, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Canada and Switzerland.

The decision was made following a comprehensive evaluation by the ITF Commission under the leadership of David Haggerty, ITF President. The assessment covered athlete performance pathways, development programs, coaching standards, competition management capabilities, safety protocols and adherence to principles of fair play, including anti-doping and anti-corruption measures.

Bulat Utemuratov, President of the Kazakhstan Tennis Federation, commented: “The Gold Level Recognition affirms that the National Tennis Center in Astana meets international requirements for player development and infrastructure quality. This achievement reflects the systematic work of the Federation, the Center’s management and our coaching teams. Most importantly, it strengthens the foundation for the long-term development of tennis in Kazakhstan, particularly in youth and junior programs.”

Over the past 18 years, 39 tennis centers have been constructed across Kazakhstan, comprising 394 hard and clay courts. During this period, private investment in tennis infrastructure has exceeded US$200 million.

The Gold Level status is granted for a four-year period through 2030 and authorizes the use of the official ITF Gold designation. In addition, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) awarded the Center the “National Training Center Integrity Standards Award.” ITIA CEO Karen Moorhouse noted that the Center has established a strong governance framework that prioritizes transparency, athlete protection and the promotion of fair competition.

The recognition underscores Kazakhstan’s continued commitment to developing a sustainable, internationally aligned tennis ecosystem and strengthening its position within the global sporting community.

SOURCE: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kazakhstans-national-tennis-center-awarded-itf-gold-level-recognition-302700959.html

ALMATY, Kazakhstan, Feb. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Bulat Utemuratov Foundation and RAOUL Charity Foundation have launched a new supported employment program aimed at developing a structured pathway into the workforce for young people with autism in Kazakhstan.

The program seeks to establish a practical and scalable model enabling young people on the autism spectrum to enter and succeed in professional environments. It will expand access to meaningful employment opportunities, strengthen specialist expertise, and introduce internationally recognized supported employment practices into Kazakhstan’s social services system.

“For us, this program represents an important next step in strengthening opportunities for young people with autism in Kazakhstan,” said Ainur Karbozova, CEO of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation. “As they transition into adulthood, employment becomes one of the most significant challenges. Our objective is to develop a sustainable model that enables them to realize their potential while supporting employers in building inclusive workplaces.”

RAOUL Charity Foundation will serve as the program’s methodological and training partner, drawing on its international expertise in supported employment to adapt global best practices locally, train job coaches, provide supervision, and support monitoring and quality frameworks.

“This partnership is about turning long-term support into long-term opportunity,” said Mikhail Krivonos, international partner at RAOUL Charity Foundation. “We believe in people’s abilities and potential. Together, we want sustainable employment to become a realistic and achievable stage in the lives of young people with autism in Kazakhstan.”

The pilot of the program will engage young people with autism and employers across telecommunications, retail, services, logistics, and other sectors. It’s implemented with methodological support from the RAOUL Charity Foundation, in partnership with Beeline Kazakhstan and the Association of Social Innovators. Participants will receive individual assessments, tailored training, and professional profiling aligned with real vacancies, and supported entry into the open labor market.

Since 2015, the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation has built a nationwide system of support for children with autism and their families. Through its network of 13 Asyl Miras centers operating in 12 cities, the Foundation has supported more than 20,000 children over the past decade. The new employment program extends this long-term commitment into adulthood, focusing on lasting social and professional inclusion. As it develops, partners plan to share results and insights, aiming to scale the model across other regions of Kazakhstan.

SOURCE: https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bulat-utemuratov-foundation-and-raoul-charity-foundation-launch-supported-employment-program-for-young-people-with-autism-in-kazakhstan-302691681.html