From April 2 to 5, 2025, within the framework of the BR21882257 project “Constructing a national engineering education model in response to sustainable development goals” (Program-Targeted Funding Contest for scientific and technical programs for 2023–2025), a delegation from D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University (EKTU) visited the University of California in San Diego (UCSD) and took part in the largest international event dedicated to the accreditation of engineering and IT programs — ABET Symposium 2025.

UCSD is one of the leading research universities in the USA, consistently ranked among the top public institutions and holding a leading position in the field of industrial innovation. Its academic and research specialization in science, engineering, and innovation closely aligns with EKTU’s strategic priorities. Both universities seek to promote interdisciplinary research, foster innovation, and train specialists capable of successfully working in an international environment.

During the meeting, the primary focus was on establishing long-term collaboration in international research projects and academic exchanges. The parties agreed to develop a research internship program for 25 leading EKTU researchers through the Bolashak scholarship program. This initiative opens up extensive opportunities for enhancing the research competencies of EKTU faculty, providing deeper engagement in real-world projects and laboratories at UC San Diego, and strengthening the university’s standing in the global scientific arena.

Another key objective of the EKTU delegation’s visit to San Diego was to participate in ABET Symposium 2025 — a premier international platform where experts, industry representatives, and higher education professionals from around the world share best practices and new standards in accreditation for engineering and IT programs. The symposium opened with the Mission Beach Cleanup charity initiative, which EKTU staff joined, highlighting the importance of environmental responsibility and sustainable development in engineering education.

During the symposium, participants discussed critical aspects of accreditation procedures, including the preparation of self-assessment reports, organization of expert visits, and updated requirements in computer science — particularly in artificial intelligence and sustainable computing. Special attention was given to the application of generative artificial intelligence to improve methods of evaluating educational programs. In addition, panel sessions addressed the development of communication and leadership skills among future engineers, as well as the creation of an inclusive environment in STEM disciplines through immersive online laboratories. The knowledge gained and the contacts established will enable EKTU to apply advanced global practices in accrediting its own educational programs and refining its curricula.

The outcomes of the EKTU delegation’s visit to UC San Diego and participation in ABET Symposium 2025 are highly significant for the future development of engineering education in Kazakhstan and the realization of sustainable development goals. EKTU plans to adopt the insights and international experience obtained to pursue accreditation under ABET standards, thus enhancing its graduates’ competitiveness in the global labor market. Collaboration with UC San Diego also sets the stage for large-scale research projects, the strengthening of scientific ties, and the training of a new generation of Kazakhstani researchers capable of tackling current challenges in cutting-edge areas of engineering and high technology.