Cardiff University to Open New Campus in Kazakhstan in 2025
Cardiff University to Open New Campus in Kazakhstan in 2025
Cardiff University has announced the establishment of a new campus in Astana, Kazakhstan, set to open later this year. This milestone marks a significant step in the university’s ongoing global development and its commitment to delivering world-class education in Central Asia.
A Legacy of Excellence: The Russell Group in Kazakhstan
As one of the members of the prestigious Russell Group of UK research universities, Cardiff University brings over 140 years of academic excellence, pioneering research, and societal impact to its new Astana campus.
Cardiff University Kazakhstan will initially launch foundation programs in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and Business in 2025, with undergraduate programs set to follow in 2026. Students will have access to Cardiff’s esteemed faculty and research expertise, equipping them with the skills needed for emerging industries and global careers.
The university is developing the Astana campus in collaboration with the Public Foundation Qualified Centre of Education (QCEF), a not-for-profit organisation.
Cardiff University has also been working closely with the Kazakh government, which has committed to supporting student access through up to 500 fully funded scholarships in the first three years. This initiative will help ensure that talented Kazakhstani students can benefit from the high-quality education offered at the new campus.
A New Hub for Global Education
With a rapidly growing economy, Kazakhstan is emerging as a key centre for higher education. The government’s efforts to internationalise its education system align with Cardiff University’s mission to foster global partnerships and provide exceptional learning opportunities.
Cardiff University Kazakhstan will contribute significantly to the government’s vision of expanding access to diverse educational pathways, offering both local and international students world-class academic programs. Once fully operational, the campus is expected to accommodate more than 2,500 students annually, strengthening the region’s skilled workforce and supporting economic development.
Commenting on the announcement, Cardiff University’s President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Wendy Larner, stated:
«We are excited about the opportunities that the Cardiff University Kazakhstan campus will create. It is clear from our extensive discussions with the Kazakh government, investors, and other stakeholders that this initiative will be truly reciprocal and mutually beneficial».
Echoing this sentiment, Kuanysh Kuchekbayev, Director of the Public Foundation «Qualified Centre of Education» (QCEF), emphasized the strategic significance of the project:
«The opening of Cardiff University’s branch in Astana is a strategically important project that will have a direct impact on the training of highly qualified specialists capable of addressing global challenges and contributing to the sustainable development of the region’s and the country’s economy».
The Cardiff University Kazakhstan campus is set to become a landmark initiative in higher education, fostering innovation, research, and academic collaboration between the UK and Kazakhstan.