Astana International University has marked a new milestone in fostering international dialogue. The university hosted an official visit from the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Finland to the Republic of Kazakhstan, Mr. Janne Heiskanen.
The visit began with an official meeting between the Ambassador and the President of AIU, Serik Aztaevich Irsaliyev. During the session, Mr. Heiskanen was introduced to the university's operations, academic milestones, and its unique educational ecosystem.
The discussion focused on establishing close cooperation with Finnish universities, particularly in modern pedagogy, instructional technologies, and updated educational content. The President of AIU proposed the establishment of a Center for Pedagogical Excellence in Astana, based at AIU, with the participation of Finnish experts to enhance the qualifications of university staff and, subsequently, school leaders and teachers across the capital. Additionally, the parties discussed involving Finnish businesses and European investments in the tourism cluster project currently being developed by AIU. Both sides agreed to integrate these initiatives into the agenda for upcoming high-level visits to Finland.
In an atmosphere of mutual trust, President Irsaliyev presented the Ambassador with a symbolic gift — a kamshy (traditional whip), representing strength, unity, and acceleration. In return, Mr. Heiskanen gifted the university a commemorative book titled "100 Social Innovations from Finland: How Finland Became Finland."
The Ambassador then held an open lecture for students titled "Finland — How Foreign Policy is Shaped in the World's Happiest Country?" He shared valuable insights into the bilateral relations and how domestic values of well-being and education serve as the foundation for Finland's effective global diplomacy. The Q&A session was particularly engaging; AIU students showered the diplomat with questions ranging from educational grants to the secrets of the world-famous "Finnish happiness," which he answered with great enthusiasm.