Nestled along the banks of the Syr Darya River, the city of Turkistan serves as the cultural and administrative heart of southern Kazakhstan’s Turkistan Region. Once a vital point along the Trans-Aral Railway linking Kyzylorda to Tashkent, the city has transformed into a vibrant destination where heritage and modern enterprise coexist. From bustling bazaars and open-air amphitheatres to family entertainment venues and artisan markets, Turkistan continues to draw visitors who come to experience its unique blend of history and progress.
With centuries of cultural depth, Turkistan remains one of Central Asia’s most storied locations. The city’s most iconic landmark – the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi – stands as one of Kazakhstan’s best-preserved archaeological treasures and a lasting symbol of the Silk Road era.
As such, it is only natural that the city’s leading university, MKTU, and Zeba Academy (Parakozm Ltd), should come together to boost ICT learning in the region.
Akhmet Yassawi University: Uniting the Turkic World Through Education
At the heart of Turkistan’s intellectual and cultural identity is Akhmet Yassawi University, an institution with profound symbolic importance across the Turkic-speaking world. As the first university established to promote unity among these nations, it has become a centre for intercultural dialogue and inclusive education, welcoming students from over 19 countries.
The university offers comprehensive programs at undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels, with support from both the Kazakh and Turkish governments. Its mission focuses on cultivating individuals who are independent thinkers, socially responsible citizens, and globally minded professionals – people who remain connected to their cultural roots while embracing innovation and democratic values.
This strong educational foundation, paired with ongoing partnerships with the likes of Zeba Academy, has positioned the university as a bridge between academic excellence and digital advancement.
Zeba Academy’s Role in Future-Ready Education
Zeba Academy, established by Parakozm Ltd, continues to champion accessible and forward-thinking education. The academy provides free IT courses to students, creating opportunities for both traditional academic growth and modern technological exploration. Select faculty members bring their expertise to Zeba’s programs, ensuring students receive an education that is both practical and globally relevant.
Guided by Parakozm’s philosophy, Zeba Academy encourages learners to think critically, question norms, and craft their own approaches to problem-solving. This commitment to creativity and independent thought ensures that every seminar and course reflects current global trends while remaining adaptable to local contexts.
Beyond the classroom, Zeba Academy’s proposed IT Hub at MKTU’s Kentau campus offers graduates and alumni a platform to connect with professionals, secure freelance opportunities, and pursue innovation. The Hub also supports alumni of Akhmet Yassawi University’s IT faculty in finding investment opportunities to bring their ideas to market – further strengthening the link between learning and real-world application.