U.S.-Kazakhstan University Linkages Program

The 12-month U.S.-Kazakhstan University Linkages Program (UniLinks), funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Mission to Kazakhstan, fostered collaboration between higher education institutions in the United States and Kazakhstan. 

By uniting higher education institutions in both countries, UniLinks aimed to enhance Kazakhstani universities’ financial and administrative management, strengthen their capacity to produce and promote high-quality research, and diversify their financing options.  

UniLinks approached this goal in two phases. First, Eurasia Foundation organized a tailored study tour for three representatives from three Kazakhstani universities in West Kazakhstan Region. Participants visited various American partner universities that specialize in their area of focus. The study tour provided participants the opportunity to learn first-hand how American universities manage administrative, financial, and research priorities and expose participants to innovative ideas. In the second phase, EF competitively granted funding to one Kazakh university to implement an initiative with an American partner.  

By enhancing Kazakhstani universities’ operations and establishing mutually beneficial relationships with American peers, Eurasia Foundation supported these institutions to promote effective learning and knowledge sharing long beyond the program’s end.