The five-year period of modernizing sports education has reached a new milestone: the Kazakh National University of Sports has been officially inaugurated

The official opening ceremony of the Kazakh National University of Sports, one of the largest educational projects in Central Asia focused on sports science and the training of highly qualified specialists, took place in Astana.

The solemn event was organized within the framework of the international forum "New Era of Sport: KNUS 2026" and was attended by representatives of government bodies, heads of international sports federations, members of the Olympic movement, and representatives of the academic community.

The event was attended by Serik Zharasbayev, Vice Minister of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan; Nenad Lalović, President of United World Wrestling (UWW); Vlad Marinescu, President of the International Esports Federation (IESF); Rafal Piechota, representative of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA); as well as heads of international organizations, representatives of foreign higher education institutions, leaders of national sports federations, scientists, and experts.

A significant event marking the completion of the first phase of the university's systematic modernization over the past five years was the opening of the new campus. During this time, the institution has expanded its international partnerships, strengthened its scientific potential, and formed a modern educational ecosystem that trains specialists for elite sports, grassroots sports, and the sports industry.

Nurasyl Medeu, founder of the Kazakh National University of Sports, noted that the opening of the new university is the result of five years of systematic work aimed at creating a modern educational and scientific platform for the sports sector in Kazakhstan. According to him, the university was established as an educational institution that meets the demands of the times, and today it is becoming an important center for training coaches, scientists, sports doctors, educators, and sports managers capable of defending the country's honor at the international level.

"Over the past five years, the university has become a major center where the pursuit of knowledge, talent, and hard work converge. Today, we can proudly say that we have laid a solid foundation. I am confident that even greater achievements, international recognition, and new victories in science and sports lie ahead. The Kazakh National University of Sports will become an important center for advanced knowledge and innovation, nurturing future champions and national leaders," said Nurasyl Medeu, founder of the university.

During the event, Nenad Lalović, President of United World Wrestling (UWW), highly praised Kazakhstan's contribution to the development of world wrestling and emphasized the importance of a modern educational base that trains athletes, coaches, and sports managers in accordance with international standards.

In turn, Vlad Marinescu, President of the International Esports Federation (IESF), stated that the opening of the National University of Sports is a clear manifestation of a global trend based on the convergence of traditional sports, digital technologies, and innovative education. According to him, the development of esports today is impossible without a strong scientific and academic foundation, and the partnership with the Kazakh National University of Sports opens up new opportunities for training future specialists.

As part of the solemn ceremony, Nenad Lalović, President of United World Wrestling (UWW), and Vlad Marinescu, President of the International Esports Federation (IESF), were awarded the title of "Honorary Professor of the Kazakh National University of Sports." Additionally, a signing ceremony for the Student Charter took place, expressing the students' commitment to academic integrity, fair competition, mutual respect, and sports ethics.

Guests of the forum were introduced to the university's innovative scientific laboratories, research centers, and educational hubs. The delegations were acquainted with the digital infrastructure, modern sports facilities, scientific equipment, and spaces dedicated to training athletes, conducting scientific research, and implementing international educational programs.

Today, the Kazakh National University of Sports is emerging not only as an educational institution but also as an international center that trains a new generation of specialists, develops sports science, introduces innovations, and strengthens international cooperation with the world's leading sports organizations. This direction enhances Kazakhstan's reputation in the global sports space and allows for the development of a modern sports education system based on the best international practices.