D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University hosted the CDIO Asian Regional Meeting 2026. Supported by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the event marked the first time that a CDIO Asian Regional Meeting had been held in Central Asia.
The meeting brought together more than 50 representatives of universities, engineering schools and expert communities from 15 countries. Participants included specialists from Singapore, Sweden, the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, India, Malaysia, Vietnam, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan and other countries.
Held under the theme “Next-Gen Engineering: The New Triad of Academia, Industry and AI,” the meeting focused on how engineering programmes should respond to rapid technological change. Discussions covered project-based and practice-oriented learning, closer cooperation between universities and industry, curriculum co-design, and the responsible use of artificial intelligence in engineering education.
Dr Juha Kontio, Co-Director of the Worldwide CDIO Initiative and Vice Rector of Turku University of Applied Sciences, reviewed the development of the global CDIO community and its evolving approach to engineering education. His presentation highlighted the integration of artificial intelligence as a major new challenge, requiring universities to embrace emerging technologies while preserving strong fundamentals, hands-on learning and professional responsibility.
The programme featured plenary sessions, expert discussions, practical workshops and international exchanges of experience. Particular attention was given to the implementation of Kazakhstan’s national model of engineering education, the involvement of industry partners in programme development, and the preparation of students to address authentic engineering and production challenges.
The regional meeting was an important milestone for EKTU. As the only university in Kazakhstan with full membership in the Worldwide CDIO Initiative, EKTU is strengthening its role in modernising engineering education, advancing project-based learning and building long-term partnerships with international universities and industry.
The academic programme was complemented by an introduction to Kazakhstan’s cultural heritage. The opening ceremony featured a traditional Kazakh kui performance, while a dedicated ethnocultural programme on the final day gave international guests an opportunity to learn more about Kazakh traditions, music and national culture.
The CDIO Asian Regional Meeting 2026 strengthened EKTU’s position within the international engineering education community and created new opportunities for educational cooperation, joint initiatives and the continued development of next-generation engineering education in Kazakhstan.
