Final Regional Sessions of the Master Training Programme "Business Management Through the Philosophy of Abai" Held in Almaty
The final regional sessions of the educational master training programme "Business Management Through the Philosophy of Abai" are taking place in Almaty. The programme is implemented by the Nazarbayev University Research Centre for Entrepreneurship (NURCE).
The Kazakh-language session is being held from 30 June to 3 July, while the final Russian-language cohort will take place from 7 to 10 July. The programme will conclude with a final Kazakh-language master training in Astana from 10–13 August.
Launched last year, the initiative has already been delivered in Astana, Semey, Aktobe, Karaganda, East Kazakhstan Region, and Almaty. Since its inception, the programme has provided free training to representatives of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, aspiring entrepreneurs, social entrepreneurs, and people with disabilities, equipping them with modern business management knowledge and practical leadership skills.
Today's entrepreneurs face an increasingly complex business environment shaped by digital transformation, climate change, the adoption of ESG principles, responsible leadership, and the need to build sustainable business models. In response, the programme offers a fresh perspective on entrepreneurship by combining internationally recognized management practices with the philosophical legacy of Abai and his concept of "Tolyq Adam" (The Complete Person).
The central philosophy of the programme is that sustainable businesses begin with the personal development of the entrepreneur. Through Abai's teachings, participants rethink the role of leadership, ethical values, social responsibility, and the importance of making decisions that create long-term value. This approach positions entrepreneurship not only as a means of generating profit but also as a vehicle for creating positive social impact and sustainable change.
The curriculum is built around three fundamental principles inspired by Abai's philosophy:
- Heart
- Mind
- Will
Together, these principles serve as the foundation of responsible and modern leadership.
The programme is divided into three core learning blocks. The first focuses on values-driven entrepreneurship, business ethics, corporate social responsibility, and the implementation of ESG principles. The second develops participants' strategic thinking, innovation capabilities, branding, sustainable business models, and resilience in the face of contemporary challenges. The final module explores leadership, effective team management, access to finance, entrepreneurial mindset development, and the practical application of newly acquired knowledge.
A distinctive feature of the programme is its highly practical approach. Throughout the four-day training, participants engage in business simulations, strategic workshops, real-world case analyses, decision-making exercises, business model development, and practical sessions on sustainable development and ESG implementation within their organizations.
The programme is delivered by leading experts in entrepreneurship, leadership, sustainability, and business education. The principal trainers include Dr. Aigerim Tarbagatayeva, Researcher at NURCE and PhD Candidate at the Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Business; Zhanar Kulzhanova, ESG and sustainability expert; Aidyn Izbasar, specialist in leadership development and organizational effectiveness; and Shakhzada Shogelbayeva, expert in branding and values-driven entrepreneurship.
Since its launch, the programme has received highly positive feedback from participants. Entrepreneurs consistently highlight its practical relevance, opportunities for peer learning and networking, and its distinctive approach to business development through the lens of Kazakhstan's national values. According to participants, the training not only strengthens managerial competencies but also encourages a deeper understanding of leadership, responsibility, and the entrepreneur's role in advancing society.
The project demonstrates that Abai's philosophical legacy remains highly relevant in addressing today's entrepreneurial challenges. By integrating national values with international best practices in management and ESG principles, the programme contributes to the development of a new generation of leaders capable of building sustainable, responsible, and globally competitive businesses in Kazakhstan.
