Jul 27, 2026
Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan Olzhas Bektenov held a meeting with the founder of the international technology community Network School, Balaji Srinivasan.
The prospects for cooperation in the field of artificial intelligence, training of qualified specialists, development of technological entrepreneurship, and support for startups through the creation of an international innovation hub in the Akmola Region with further expansion to Alatau City were considered. The meeting also discussed joint initiatives, including participation in the AI Film Festival with a prize fund from Balaji Srinivasan, and holding the Network State Conference within the framework of the international forum AI & Digital Bridge with the participation of global technology giants. A practical step in the implementation of the outlined plans was the signing of a Memorandum with the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development on the establishment of Network School.
The main approaches of Network School were presented — an international community uniting entrepreneurs, developers, engineers, and researchers for joint learning and work on technological projects. The format of the platform combines educational programs, coworking, the holding of conferences, hackathons, and acceleration events.
The current year has been declared by the Head of State as the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence. Today, the Nationwide Strategy for Digital Transformation and the Development of Artificial Intelligence Digital Qazaqstan is being implemented in the country. The necessary infrastructure for the development of the digital economy is being created in Kazakhstan. Among the largest projects are Astana Hub and the “Data Center Valley” in Ekibastuz. Educational programs TUMO and Tomorrow School operate on the basis of the International Center for Artificial Intelligence Alem.ai.
The meeting participants noted that cooperation and the implementation of joint projects will make it possible to improve the existing personnel training system and strengthen Kazakhstan’s position as one of the leading international platforms for the development of information technologies. Following the meeting, the Prime Minister instructed the relevant state bodies to assist in the implementation of the project.
Read more: https://primeminister.kz/en/news/olzhas-bektenov-discusses-with-founder-of-network-school-prospects-of-creating-an-international-technology-hub-in-kazakhstan-31704