Results of the DESIGN REVIEW 2024 Competition

On November 29-30, 2024, the final of the DESIGN REVIEW 2024 competition took place at the International educational corporation (KazGASA), organized by the Urban Development Center with the support of the Research Institute “Almatygenplan.” The competition gathered 30 teams from various universities in Kazakhstan.

Participants presented projects for the renovation of Soviet and post-Soviet-era apartment buildings, focusing on creating modern and inclusive spaces. 16 teams in the fields of architecture and design reached the final.

Based on the review, the competition committee selected the best projects: 

  • 1st place: “New Level of Life in an Old House” – Murat Aykorkem, Bali Daniya, Ilyasheva Ayana, Aytjanova Ingkar, IEC (KazGASA). 
  • 2nd place: “Affordable Housing – Comfortable Living” – Dereli Gulbahar, Danabekova Shugyla, Dereli Fatima, Shalimbetova Zhanelya, IEC (KazGASA). 
  • 3rd place: “Creating an Accessible Architectural Environment Based on Ethno-Cultural Heritage” – Slonimets Diana, Tungyshpaeva Akniyet, IEC (KazGASA).

The student projects were highly praised by the jury for their rationale, creativity, inclusivity, and practical value. 

The presented projects attracted the interest of the city authorities and will be considered for possible implementation.

An exhibition took place at the IEC as part of the “Ұлттық сезім” project

As part of supporting the “Ұлттық сезім” project, the International educational corporation continues to actively promote Kazakh culture by encouraging the wearing of traditional national clothing. Students and faculty enthusiastically embraced this initiative. This approach strengthens intergenerational ties and fosters a deep respect for Kazakhstan’s culture and traditions. Participation in the project provides a better understanding of the richness of Kazakh history and inspires young people to preserve and develop cultural values. 

Particular attention was drawn to a unique exhibition organized by the professor of the Design Faculty, Shahizada Sainbekovna Turganbayeva. The exhibition featured dolls dressed in miniature national costumes. These dolls, recreating traditional attire from various ethnic groups, became true works of art, showcasing not only the craftsmanship of our students but also the richness of cultural heritage. The exhibition sparked great interest among all participants, offering a unique and fascinating perspective on the art of creating national costumes.

IEC and ololohaus discuss collaboration opportunities

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On November 29, the International educational corporation (KazGASA) hosted representatives from the Kyrgyz company “ololohaus.” The purpose of the visit was to sign a memorandum of cooperation aimed at promoting creative industries in Central Asia.
During the meeting, the parties discussed the implementation of the Academic City project – a large-scale complex featuring dormitories, co-living spaces, co-working areas, a congress center, and other facilities to foster an innovative ecosystem.

Collaboration Between IEC and Geomaster A Company

On November 29, the International educational corporation (KazGASA) hosted a meeting with representatives of Geomaster A company.
The primary focus of the meeting was discussing the training of students enrolled in the “Geodesy and Cartography” and “Cadastre” educational programs. Participants emphasized the importance of developing students’ professional competencies and integrating modern technologies into the educational process.

As a gesture of strengthened collaboration, Geomaster A LLP presented the rector of IEC, Margarita Bulatovna Imandosova, with a state-of-the-art Galaxy G2 GNSS receiver. This advanced equipment will be used in the educational process to enhance students’ theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

International уducational сorporation Faculty Visit Poland and Italy with Scientific Presentations

From November 3 to 13, 2024, faculty members from the Faculty of Architecture at the International уducational сorporation visited Poland and Italy. The trip was part of the Grant Project AP19680138, aimed at gathering research materials, studying cultural heritage preservation practices, and exploring the modern architecture of these countries.

The delegation included Gulnara Seidakhmetovna Abdrassilova, PhD, research professor, and chief scientific researcher; Elvira Temirgalievna Danibekova, PhD, associate professor and project leader; and Aynagul Kairbaevna Tuyakayeva, Candidate of Architecture and associate professor.

On November 6, the delegation participated in the International Conference “Materials, Structures, Technologies, and Management in Civil and Environmental Engineering” at Czestochowa University of Technology (Czestochowa, Poland), presenting a report titled “The Architecture of Underground Mosques in Western Kazakhstan.” The presentation sparked significant interest among the audience, with questions focusing on the history, culture, construction traditions, and architectural features of Kazakhstan.

On November 13, the delegation attended the International Festival “The World in Florence” (Florence, Italy) and presented a report titled “Underground Mosques of Kazakhstan as Monuments of Cultural Heritage.” The presentation received high acclaim and was awarded the “TWIF2024 Most Voted Itinerary” diploma by the conference jury.

As part of the festival, creative works by IEC Faculty of Architecture instructors were donated to the Romualdo Del Bianco Foundation. These works were exhibited at the event and added to the permanent collection of the Coppini Museum.

Inspiration Day by KAZGOR Held at IEC

On November 27, 2024, the International educational corporation (KazGASA) hosted an event titled Inspiration Day by KAZGOR. The KAZGOR Project Academy brought together students and faculty to exchange experiences, knowledge, and inspiration.

The program included:

  • Fascinating talks on the design process, parametric modeling, generative design, and environmental standards (LEED/BREEAM).
  • Interactive sessions, discussions, and quizzes with valuable prizes.
  • Opportunities for top-performing students to intern at the KAZGOR Project Academy.

Special attention was given to practical skills, the application of AI in design, project management, and teamwork.

IEC student awarded in the “Best Student” category

On November 27, 2024, as part of the “Almaty Leaders” project, organized by the Department of Youth Policy of Almaty city in collaboration with the Public Foundation “Spirit of Youth,” a ceremony was held to honor the best representatives of the student community.

As a result of the event, second-year student of the faculty of general construction at the International educational corporation (KazGASA), Aymukhan Ansar Abzalovich, was recognized as one of the top ten students in the city of Almaty. His achievements and active life position were highly appreciated, and he received a monetary award of 50,000 tenge.

Congratulations to Ansar, and we wish him continued success!

Stanford Professor Paul Kim visits IEC

On November 26, the International educational corporation hosted a visit from Stanford University professor Paul Kim. During his visit, he explored the corporation’s infrastructure, including state-of-the-art laboratories and the new academic building.

Professor Kim delivered a guest lecture focused on key aspects of competitiveness in the age of artificial intelligence, emphasizing skill development and adaptation to emerging challenges.

Following the lecture, a hands-on workshop was held, during which Professor Kim introduced his SMILE ASK design thinking methodology.

As part of the workshop, a team competition took place, with the winners receiving the grand prize – a trip to Beijing or Los Angeles, personally sponsored by Professor Kim.

IEC Allocates 5 Educational Grants for RPMS Graduates

The International educational corporation (KazGASA) has announced the allocation of 5 full educational grants for graduates of the Republican Physics and Mathematics School (RPMS).

Each grant covers 100% of tuition fees for the entire duration of the educational programs. The main selection criteria include academic performance, entrance exam results, and applicants’ motivation.

“As an RPMS alumnus, I warmly remember my school years and now want to support the future talents of this school. These grants are a unique opportunity for young talents who dream of making their mark in architecture, construction, and design,” noted Aygazy Amirlanovich Kussainov, Chairman of the IEC Supervisory Board.

IEC continues to open new horizons for talented graduates, reaffirming its commitment to supporting youth potential and shaping the leaders of tomorrow.

IEC Participates in Nobel Fest & Teachers’ Summit and specialized exhibition

From november 21 to 23, 2024, the International educational corporation (KazGASA) participated in the Nobel Fest & Teachers’ Summit and the accompanying specialized exhibition held in Astana at Nazarbayev University.

As part of the forum, a session was conducted to address key aspects of preparing students for contemporary challenges, focusing on the development of skills demanded in the global labor market.