American Councils for International Education Kazakhstan

Join us for the U.S.-Central Asia Research Network (U.S.-CARNet) Online Lecture “Prospective Axial Development in Kyrgyzstan: Border Crossings, Corridors, and Connectivity with China”.

🗣️Speaker: Nargiza Muratalieva holds a PhD in political science and is a part-time associate professor in the International and Comparative Politics Department at the American University of Central Asia (AUCA). She is also a visiting scholar at the University of Kansas. Her research focuses on international relations and regional cooperation in Central Asia.

🕒 Date & Time: September 18, 9:00 AM U.S. EDT
6:00 PM Astana/Dushanbe/Tashkent
7:00 PM Bishkek time
📌 Save the date and register now to secure your spot:
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/k7UKCx6JQe6-LJZt-Q3j1Q

🌐 Translation to/from Russian language will be available for those who choose that option upon joining the lecture!

Join us for the U.S.-Central Asia Research Network (U.S.-CARNet) Online Lecture “Central Asian Studies in China”.

🗣️Speaker: Assel Bitabar is a PhD candidate and teaching professor at the International School of Economics, Maksut Narikbayev University. Her research focuses on Sino-Central Asian relations, particularly on how China and the three Central Asian states – namely, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan – perceive each other. Her research interests also include Chinese foreign policy, international relations in Central Asia, and critical geopolitics.

🕒 Date & Time: August 28, 9:00 AM U.S. EDT
6:00 PM Astana/Dushanbe/Tashkent
7:00 PM Bishkek time
📌 Save the date and register now to secure your spot:
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/OxBb-7xqStCrrchYXLLJfw

🌐 Translation to/from Russian language will be available for those who choose that option upon joining the lecture!

The U.S.-CARNet program is designed to foster long-term collaboration, shared research, and joint publication among Central Asian and U.S. experts on East Asia, with a particular focus on China. Program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Embassy in the Kyrgyz Republic and administered by American Councils.

Recap from the U.S.-CARNet Capstone Conference – August 12-13, 2025

As we mark the 10th anniversary of the U.S.-Central Asian collaboration through the C5+1 platform, the U.S.-CARNet Capstone Conference brought together scholars from Central Asia and the U.S. to discuss pivotal issues shaping the region.

Here’s a quick look at key sessions:
Day 1 Highlights:
1 Kyrgyzstan’s Connectivity with China – Examining border crossings and infrastructure development.
2 U.S.-China Competition in Education – A focus on Kazakhstan’s role in global academic arena.
3 China’s Use of ‘Manas’ – Cultural appropriation or appreciation?
4 China’s Role in Central Asia – Trends, specifics, and future prospects.
5 China’s Digital Diplomacy – The use of Instagram in Kazakhstan in public diplomacy.

Day 2 Highlights:
• U.S.-Central Asia Perspectives on China – Current research and emerging trends.
• China-Russia Relations – Impact on Central Asia’s political and economic future.
• Mutual Perceptions between Central Asia and China – Exploring cultural and political viewpoints.
• Recent Developments in U.S.-China Relations – Their global impact and regional implications.
• Future Trends: China-Central Asia – Key projections for the next decade.

The conference sparked meaningful dialogue on China’s growing influence in Central Asia and its broader global implications.

The U.S.-CARNet program is supported by the U.S. Embassy in Bishkek, the Kyrgyz Republic and the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs of the U.S. Department of State

Recap from the U.S.-CARNet Capstone Conference – August 12-13, 2025 📊

As we mark the 10th anniversary of the U.S.-Central Asian collaboration through the C5+1 platform, the U.S.-CARNet Capstone Conference brought together scholars from Central Asia and the U.S. to discuss pivotal issues shaping the region.

Here’s a quick look at key sessions:
Day 1 Highlights:
1 Kyrgyzstan’s Connectivity with China – Examining border crossings and infrastructure development.
2 U.S.-China Competition in Education – A focus on Kazakhstan’s role in global academic arena.
3 China’s Use of 'Manas' – Cultural appropriation or appreciation?
4 China’s Role in Central Asia – Trends, specifics, and future prospects.
5 China’s Digital Diplomacy – The use of Instagram in Kazakhstan in public diplomacy.

Day 2 Highlights:
• U.S.-Central Asia Perspectives on China – Current research and emerging trends.
• China-Russia Relations – Impact on Central Asia’s political and economic future.
• Mutual Perceptions between Central Asia and China – Exploring cultural and political viewpoints.
• Recent Developments in U.S.-China Relations – Their global impact and regional implications.
• Future Trends: China-Central Asia – Key projections for the next decade.

The conference sparked meaningful dialogue on China’s growing influence in Central Asia and its broader global implications.

The U.S.-CARNet program is supported by the U.S. Embassy in Bishkek, the Kyrgyz Republic and the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs of the U.S. Department of State

🎓 U.S.-Central Asia Research Network Capstone Conference

On August 12, a full-day lecture series will consider how China is reshaping the region’s infrastructure, education, digital spaces, and cultural narratives.
The Capstone Conference brings together leading scholars and analysts from Central Asia, the U.S., and beyond to explore the geopolitics of road and rail corridors in Kyrgyzstan, the use of the Epic of Manas in Chinese soft power campaigns, U.S. and China’s contribution to international education in Kazakhstan, and the use of Instagram in digital diplomacy.

These lectures offer a timely look at the long-term implications of China’s regional engagement, and what it means for Central Asia’s autonomy and global positioning.

The Capstone Conference is organized by American Councils, with the support of the U.S. Embassy in Bishkek, the Kyrgyz Republic and in collaboration with CAPS Unlock ()

📡 All sessions will be streamed live and translation in Russian will be provided. To join remotely, register via the link at bio

🎓 U.S.-Central Asia Research Network Capstone Conference

On August 12, a full-day lecture series will consider how China is reshaping the region’s infrastructure, education, digital spaces, and cultural narratives.
The Capstone Conference brings together leading scholars and analysts from Central Asia, the U.S., and beyond to explore the geopolitics of road and rail corridors in Kyrgyzstan, the use of the Epic of Manas in Chinese soft power campaigns, U.S. and China’s contribution to international education in Kazakhstan, and the use of Instagram in digital diplomacy.

These timely lectures offer a timely look at the long-term implications of China’s regional engagement, and what it means for Central Asia’s autonomy and global positioning.

The Capstone Conference is organized by American Councils, with the support of the U.S. Embassy in Bishkek, the Kyrgyz Republic and in collaboration with CAPS Unlock ()

📡 All sessions will be streamed live and translation in Russian will be provided. To join remotely, register via the link at bio

Join us for the U.S.-Central Asia Research Network (U.S.-CARNet) Online Lecture “China’s Educational Initiatives in Kazakhstan”.

🗣️Speaker: Dr. Zarina Kakenova is a Senior Lecturer at the Department of International Relations, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University in Astana, Kazakhstan. She holds a PhD in International Relations and has over a decade of academic experience in higher education. Her research focuses on Central Asian geopolitics, U.S. and Chinese foreign policy in the region, and regional cooperation frameworks. She is a current fellow of the U.S.-Central Asia Research Network, coordinated by American Councils, and was previously a Weiser Professional Development Fellow at the University of Michigan.

🕒 Date & Time: August 7, 9:00 AM U.S. EDT
6:00 PM Astana/Dushanbe/Tashkent
7:00 PM Bishkek time
📌 Save the date and register now to secure your spot:
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/n36YfzOJR5KEZysrQt0YDg

🌐 Translation to/from Russian language will be available for those who choose that option upon joining the lecture!

The U.S.-CARNet program is designed to foster long-term collaboration, shared research, and joint publication among Central Asian and U.S. experts on East Asia, with a particular focus on China. Program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Embassy in the Kyrgyz Republic and administered by American Councils.

5+O.N.E. in Faces: Meet Alua Tussupbekova, a Classroom Teacher from Kazakhstan

“English in this region is not just about language,” says Alua Tussupbekova, Teacher of the C5+O.N.E. (Opening Networks through English). “It is about access—to partnerships, investments, and opportunities”.

As part of the C5+O.N.E. (Opening Networks through English) regional program, Alua teaches English for Economic Development to participants in Cohort 4 — government and business leaders eager to expand their impact and collaborate globally in Almaty, Kazakhstan.

With a background in finance and deep roots in education, Alua brings real-world business English skills to the classroom. Her students? “They inspire me every day with their focus and drive.”

Across five cities in Kazakhstan — Almaty, Astana, Shymkent, Aktau, and Atyrau — over 200 participants are learning the language skills needed to thrive in a global economy.
🟦 Cohort 4 includes 700+ professionals from across Central Asia
🟦 Over 800 alumni have already completed the program
🟦 Together, they are driving growth, partnerships, and prosperity in the region

With strong English skills and new regional connections, C5+O.N.E. alumni are driving regional stability and strengthening economic partnerships with the United States to support Central Asia’s growth and our shared prosperity.

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Dear all,
Join us for the U.S.-Central Asia Research Network (U.S.-CARNet) Online Lecture “Resource Risks in China’s Relations with Kazakhstan”.
🗣️Speaker: Elizabeth Wishnick is a Senior Research Scholar at the Weatherhead East Asian Institute at Columbia University. She was a tenured professor of Political Science at Montclair State University from 2005-2024. Dr. Wishnick has dual regional expertise on China and Russia and is an expert on Chinese foreign policy, Sino-Russian relations, Asian security, non-traditional security, and polar geopolitics. Her book project, China’s Risk: Energy, Water, Food and Regional Security (forthcoming Columbia University Press) addresses the security consequences of energy, water and food risks in China for its Eurasian neighbors, a topic she explores in a related policy blog on Substack, China’s Resource Risks. She received a PhD in Political Science from Columbia University, an MA in Russian and East European Studies from Yale University, and a BA from Barnard College. She speaks Mandarin, Russian, and French.
🕒 Date & Time: July 31, 9:00 AM U.S. EDT
6:00 PM Astana/Dushanbe/Tashkent 7:00 PM Bishkek time
📌 Save the date and register now to secure your spot via the link our bio.
🌐 Translation to/from Russian language will be available for those who choose that option upon joining the lecture!
The U.S.-CARNet program is designed to foster long-term collaboration, shared research, and joint publication among Central Asian and U.S. experts on East Asia, with a particular focus on China. Program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Embassy in the Kyrgyz Republic and administered by American Councils.

More Than Words: How C5+O.N.E. Empowered a Future Leader in Science

The story of Oxana Belonozhkina is a compelling example of how English language skills can open new doors and create opportunities for young professionals aiming to drive change in science and leadership.

Raised in Aktau, a city on Kazakhstan’s Caspian coast in the Mangystau region – a land rich in geological heritage and spiritual resilience – Oxana was shaped by her surroundings. From a young age, she dreamed of uncovering the Earth’s secrets and making discoveries that would benefit both science and her country. Her goal was clear: to stand at the crossroads of science, leadership, and progress.

Oxana recognized early on that English proficiency was essential for advancing in the global scientific community. Yet, despite years of formal study, she lacked the confidence to express herself clearly and professionally in high-stakes academic and leadership settings.

“Though I had studied English for many years, I struggled with self-expression, particularly in scientific and leadership contexts,” Oxana recalls. “I feared making mistakes and sounding ‘less than professional.’”

To overcome this challenge, in September 2023, she joined the C5+O.N.E. (Opening Networks through English) program – a regional initiative supported by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs. Designed to enhance English proficiency among early- to mid-career professionals from the government, civil society, and private sectors across Central Asia, the program goes far beyond traditional language instruction. It strengthens regional connectivity and builds lasting links between Central Asian professionals and U.S. experts, institutions, and networks – helping young professionals become the next generation of leaders, while enhancing collaboration and shared growth between the region and the United States.

Oxana was an exceptionally committed participant. With a strong background in geology and a clear vision for her professional growth, she immersed herself in the program sessions and collaborative learning activities. Over time, she experienced a shift – not only in language skills, but in mindset.

“C5+O.N.E. transformed my relationship with English. I began speaking not as a student, but as a professional – with confidence. The program reshaped how I see myself and gave me the tools to share my expertise with the world,” she says.
Her dedication paid off. Oxana earned the prestigious Bolashak Scholarship, securing a place in a Master’s program in Petroleum Geoscience and Energy Transition in the United Kingdom. Among thousands of applicants across Kazakhstan, she stood out not only for her scientific background but also for her improved English communication skills, significantly developed through C5+O.N.E.

“C5+O.N.E. didn’t just teach me English – it helped me find my voice as a woman, a scientist, and a leader. It prepared me mentally and linguistically. I improved my IELTS score, wrote a strong personal statement, and most importantly – I believed I was good enough.”

Oxana’s journey shows that when young people are given the tools, support, and belief in their potential, they don’t just succeed – they begin to lead.
“I want my story to inspire young people, especially girls from the regions: you don’t have to be born in the center to become the center of change,” Oxana says.
She now dreams of leading national projects in geology and energy and starting a training and mentorship center for young professionals in the field – especially women. Her vision is to build an ecosystem of science, youth empowerment, and energy innovation in Kazakhstan.

Through programs like C5+O.N.E., the U.S. Government is helping shape a new generation of professionals – not just with stronger English skills, but with stronger voices. These initiatives build confidence, strengthen regional connectivity, and deepen engagement with U.S. professional networks, laying the groundwork for lasting cooperation and shared progress between Central Asia and the United States.

Join us for the U.S.-Central Asia Research Network (U.S.-CARNet) Online Lecture “China’s Use of “Manas Epic”: Cultural Appropriation or Appreciation?”.

🗣️Speaker: Erkinbek Kamalov, senior political analyst at the Research Center for Security and Geopolitical Studies in Jalal-Abad, Kyrgyz Republic.
As part of the U.S.-CARNet Program, he spent a semester at the University of Kansas, conducting research and attending classes on China’s foreign policy. He holds an M.A. in Political Science from the OSCE Academy in Bishkek. Previously, Erkinbek participated in fellowship programs as well as conducted research in Japan, India, Thailand and Vietnam.

🕒 Date & Time: July 10, 9:00 AM U.S. EDT
6:00 PM Astana/Dushanbe/Tashkent
7:00 PM Bishkek time
📌 Save the date and register now to secure your spot through the link in ’s bio.

🌐 Translation to/from Russian language will be available for those who choose that option upon joining the lecture!