President Tokayev Stresses Diversity and Inclusion in AI
Telegram and Kazakhstan to Collaborate on Supercomputer Cluster
Focus on AI Education with Active Partnerships with Global Universities
"It is important for citizens to understand how artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm systems operate, from loan execution to the provision of public services. Everyone, not just the privileged, should have access to AI." (President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan)
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan is delivering a greeting at the opening ceremony of the "Digital Bridge Forum 2025" held on the 2nd (local time) in the capital city, Astana. Photo by Noh Kyungjo
The "Digital Bridge Forum 2025," the largest IT event in Central Asia, concluded successfully in Astana, Kazakhstan, from October 2 to 4 (local time). The exhibition hall was bustling with visitors throughout the three days, and each session venue was filled with audiences eager to hear insights from key figures. In particular, the robot boxing matches, a lecture by former English Premier League (EPL) player Sol Campbell, and the finals of the Eurasian Startup Competition drew such large crowds that there was barely any room to stand, with attendees cheering enthusiastically.
President Tokayev, in his opening remarks on the first day, emphasized the role of government and the importance of education in the age of AI. He stated, "We must take effective measures to ensure that AI does not become a tool for manipulation or exacerbate social inequality depending on people's actions and choices." He added, "It is necessary to educate the next generation of engineers, humanitarians, and other professionals to reflect on the development of AI technology."
Kazakhstan launched the AI-Sana project earlier this year. This government-led initiative aims to educate 100,000 students annually over the next six years, with the goals of fostering deep-tech startups, developing IT capabilities, and stimulating entrepreneurship. The country is also actively forming partnerships with leading universities worldwide. From Korea, institutions such as the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Seoul National University of Science and Technology, Woosong University, and Dong-Eui University are opening local campuses and engaging in exchange and cooperation efforts.
View of the 'Alem.ai International Artificial Intelligence Center' in Astana, Kazakhstan. Photo by Noh Kyungjo
The country is also proactive in attracting businesses. Pavel Durov, founder and CEO of Telegram, announced in his congratulatory address that he would open a laboratory at the 'Alem.ai International Artificial Intelligence Center' in Astana. He expressed satisfaction with opening Telegram's first regional office in Kazakhstan and revealed plans for collaboration on a supercomputer cluster. The large circular Alem.ai building serves as a cradle for the advancement of AI technology in Kazakhstan.
Korea also indicated its openness to cooperation in pursuing a national AI-based strategy. Lee Daehee, CEO of Korea Venture Investment, stated in his keynote speech on the second day, "The Kazakhstani government's commitment to accelerating digital transformation and AI integration under state leadership closely aligns with Korea's AI strategy," adding, "The partnership between the two countries could evolve into a long-term strategic collaboration in terms of investment and ecosystem development."
Meanwhile, Kazakhstan, a resource-rich nation, has recently been actively promoting AI-based digital transformation. The government is accelerating the establishment of an AI innovation ecosystem to expand AI technology and introduce AI into industries, led by its "2024-2029 AI Development Strategy."
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