Ualikhanov University Explores Academic and Research Collaboration with Shaanxi Normal University in China

On October 28, Ualikhanov University welcomed Professor Hongliang Ma, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Education and Director of the Research Center for Artificial Intelligence and STEM Education at Shaanxi Normal University (SNNU), China.

The meeting focused on strengthening academic and research ties between the two institutions, with particular emphasis on PhD training, joint doctoral supervision, and collaborative research initiatives.

A key topic of discussion was the opportunity for doctoral studies at Shaanxi Normal University through the Chinese Government's Silk Road Scholarship Program. For the 2026 - 2027 academic year, SNNU's Faculty of Education has allocated 30 fully funded PhD places for international students across five fields: Comparative Education, Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Technology, Higher Education, and Educational Economics.

The participants also explored opportunities to establish a joint doctoral supervision model, bringing together the academic expertise of both universities. This approach would allow doctoral candidates to benefit from international research experience while addressing challenges and priorities relevant to Kazakhstan's education system.

Another important area of discussion was the development of joint research projects, co-authored publications in international academic journals, and collaborative applications for research grants.

Professor Hongliang Ma is an established researcher specializing in educational technology, STEM education, and the integration of artificial intelligence into teaching and learning. His research focuses on digital transformation in education, computational thinking, and the professional development of educators.

The meeting concluded with discussions on potential next steps, including the development of a memorandum of understanding and the launch of a pilot initiative for joint PhD training.

Strengthening ties with Shaanxi Normal University represents an important opportunity for Ualikhanov University to expand international research partnerships, create new pathways for doctoral education, and advance collaborative research in education.