INCLUSIVE EDUCATION: KazNARU Expands Research and Methodological Partnership with the University of Texas at Austin
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
On July 14, 2026, a strategic working meeting was held at the International Center for Exclusive Education at Kazakh National Agrarian Research University (KazNARU), dedicated to advancing global standards for inclusive education. The event was attended by Dr. James D. Lee, Ph.D., Assistant Professor in the Department of Special Education at the University of Texas at Austin (USA), and Saltanat Murzalinova‑Yakovleva, a distinguished Kazakhstani practitioner, External Advisor to the Minister of Education on Disability Issues, and President of the Center for Social Inclusive Programs Public Foundation.
Global Exchange of Experience and Evidence‑Based Practices
The main purpose of Dr. Lee’s visit was to discuss international best practices and methodologies for supporting children and youth with special educational needs. His research at UT Austin focuses on adapting evidence‑based practices (EBPs) and expanding access to quality care in resource‑limited settings. He shared valuable insights from implementing inclusive programs in diverse countries. Participants emphasized the importance of overcoming barriers to inclusive approaches and highlighted the need to integrate academic research with practical applications. Special attention was given to engaging families and local communities, recognized as a critical factor for the sustainable scaling of support programs.
Prospects for Scientific and Methodological Cooperation
A key outcome of the meeting was the identification of strategic partnership directions based on the KazNARU International Center for Inclusive Education. The parties agreed to collaborate in the following areas:
• Joint research: Long‑term comparative studies of inclusive educational trajectories, adapting international experience to Kazakhstan’s sociocultural context.
• Methodological support: Development and implementation of modern evidence‑based guidelines, with exchange of analytical materials between Austin and Almaty.
• Transfer of innovative programs: Adaptation of UT Austin’s advanced practices in early intervention and special education to foster a barrier‑free environment in higher education.
“Combining the expertise of leading global institutions with the practical developments of our center opens a new chapter in the advancement of inclusive science. We aim to create synergies that will transform Kazakhstan’s educational environment based on rigorous evidence and global standards,” noted Vice‑Rector for International Relations Rafis Abazov.
Contribution to Sustainable Development
The meeting reaffirmed KazNARU’s role as a socially responsible research university contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 Quality Education and SDG 10 Reduced Inequalities. The university continues to strengthen its position as a leader in promoting academic openness and equal opportunities for all. The Center was opened as a part of of Erasmus EduFusion project.
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
