It is not just a profession, but a great mission. This is how Kassym-Jomart Tokayev described the teaching profession at the Republican August conference. The President’s words perfectly reflect the essence and significance of a teacher’s work. Representatives of universities, who also participated in today’s meeting, understand better than anyone how important the foundation laid in schools and colleges is.

A teacher is not just a mentor who imparts knowledge. A teacher is a person who ignites in students the very spark of curiosity, critical thinking, and the thirst for learning. When a teacher manages to kindle this spark in a student, it becomes much easier for us, professors and university lecturers, to work. We are not just receiving a prospective student, but a future university student ready to learn, research, and create. Such a person does not need to be told why knowledge is important — they seek it on their own. They will already be able to think, analyze, and face challenges without fear.

Therefore, the connection between school, college, and university is inseparable. Quality school education is the foundation of a strong, competitive higher education system. Today’s meeting is an opportunity to once again emphasize that the country’s future begins with the work of each teacher, as they shape the new generation that will build our country tomorrow.

At Toraighyrov University, we actively collaborate with schools and colleges in the Pavlodar region. Our specialists conduct close career guidance work, helping students determine their future professions and develop their interest in STEM subjects. We believe that a strong technical university cannot exist without strong schools and colleges that prepare motivated and engaged prospective students.

Within the framework of master’s and doctoral programs, Toraighyrov University trains personnel for schools and colleges and researches current issues in secondary education. In addition, our faculty have developed professional development courses that are included in the registry of courses approved by the Ministry of Education. Thus, we do not just accept graduates; we also contribute to the development of pedagogy and the professional growth of teachers. This is comprehensive work in which we see our important mission.