UNIST marked a significant milestone in its international outreach with the successful hosting of its first-ever global alumni event in Central Asia. This gathering aimed to deepen regional ties, expand collaborative opportunities, and reinforce the university’s commitment to building a vibrant global network.
On November 8, UNIST convened the ‘1st UNIST International Alumni Day‘ in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The event brought together alumni, academic partners, and government representatives from across the region, creating a dynamic platform for reconnecting and fostering sustainable international cooperation.
Today, UNIST’s global alumni community exceeds 670 members, with nearly half (43%) originating from the five Central Asian nations—Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan. Many alumni have gone on to excel in leading roles within multinational companies, startups, academia, and government agencies, forming a robust regional network. This event served to strengthen those bonds and inspire collective efforts toward mutual growth.
The gathering was attended by distinguished guests, including Ha Tae Wook, the Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Almaty, along with representatives from prominent local universities, such as Satbayev University and Suleyman Demirel University, as well as officials involved in the QAIST innovation project. Discussions centered on expanding collaborative efforts and exploring new avenues for regional development.
In his remarks, Consul General Ha Tae Wook highlighted UNIST’s enduring engagement with Central Asia, emphasizing, “Since its inception, UNIST has maintained a strong and steady connection with this region,” adding. “I am confident that our alumni will serve as vital bridges, fostering stronger ties between Korea and Central Asia for shared prosperity.” Local university leaders also praised UNIST’s rapid growth and expressed their enthusiasm for future joint initiatives.
Samat Nurlain, an alumni who now runs a startup in Kazakhstan, expressed pride in being part of the UNIST community. “UNIST played a pivotal role in shaping me into a global professional,” s/he noted. “Now, I am eager to contribute to the university’s continued success and help promote its reputation worldwide.” Many alumni involved in entrepreneurship and research shared inspiring stories, underscoring the importance of a strong international network.
Vice President Sung Chul Bae for Academic Affairs is delivering a welcome remark at the ‘UNIST International Alumni Day.’
Building on the trust fostered during the event, UNIST and its alumni are expected to collaborate on a variety of initiatives—ranging from educational exchanges and joint research projects to fundraising efforts aimed at supporting the university’s growth.
The event also marked the official inauguration of ‘UNIST Global Ambassadors‘—alumni appointed to represent the university on the international stage. These ambassadors will serve as vital connectors, promoting UNIST’s brand and expanding its influence across borders. UNIST reaffirmed its commitment to supporting these representatives and to elevating its global presence.
Reunited alumni enjoyed reconnecting, reminiscing about their campus life, and celebrating UNIST’s rising international reputation. One alumnus expressed pride, saying, “It is incredible to see UNIST gaining global recognition. Knowing I am part of this community gives me confidence and pride.” Others emphasized that events like this deepen their sense of belonging and commitment to their alma mater.
Vice President Sung Chul Bae for Academic Affairs highlighted the significance of the gathering, stating, “This inaugural alumni event is just the beginning. We aim to build a comprehensive global network—particularly in Central Asia—that will serve as a new ‘Silk Road‘ of science and technology, connecting talented individuals and innovative ideas across borders.”
With this launch, UNIST is set to expand its international partnerships, especially in Central Asia, as it works towards realizing its vision of becoming a ‘World-leading University to Advance Science and Technology for the Prosperity of Humankind.’
