Kazakhstan should consider opening a Kazakh-Chinese artificial intelligence school in Astana, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has said, calling for stronger links between school education and the training of next-generation specialists.

Speaking at the August Conference of Teachers, Tokayev emphasized that preparing future professionals in advanced technologies must begin at school, Kazinform reports.

“Training specialists of a new generation cannot be viewed in isolation from school education. It is necessary to build a unified vertical system,” the president said.

Tokayev also raised questions about the length of secondary education, noting that some students at Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools and private schools remain in school until the age of 18.

“How reasonable is this, taking into account the accelerated physiological development of today's children? I believe the ministry should address this issue and propose solutions if necessary,” he said.

The president stressed that Kazakhstan’s Constitution provides for a unified standard of school education across the country.

Tokayev also pointed to the country’s growing focus on artificial intelligence. The University of Artificial Intelligence is set to open its doors in September, but the president said further steps are needed.

“The Government needs to explore establishing a Kazakh-Chinese artificial intelligence school in Astana, given China's extensive experience and achievements in developing new technologies,” Tokayev said.