Authors : N. Anarbek, M. Yesseyeva and S. Naushabayeva
Abstract: Creation of world-class universities in countries which have not had them yet or enhancement of existing universities up to the level of research universities is a world wide trend because research universities play a key role in the global knowledge economy of the 21st century and are flagships in the development of higher education across the globe. In this study, we deal with issues concerning relation between reforms aimed at transforming higher education institutions into world-class research universities and granting autonomy to them. The above tendencies will be analyzed by comparing Al Farabi KazNU and Nazarbayev University. Kazakh National University N.A. Al Farabi is justly considered as one of the best higher education institutions of the country throughout its history. President Nazarbayev noted that KazNU N.A. Al Farabi is a trendsetter for the whole system of higher education it has successfully developed educational and scientific potential of the republic. To study in such higher education institution is a great privilege because it opens the way for receiving elite education. Delivering a lecture to students of Nazarbayev University the president noted that the university’s experience of functioning as an autonomous institution should be extended to include other higher education institutions of the country.
N. Anarbek, M. Yesseyeva and S. Naushabayeva, 2016. Establishment of World Class Universities in Kazakhstan: Al-Farabi Kazakh National University and Nazarbayev University. The Social Sciences, 11: 798-803.