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From June 24 to 26, 2025, Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University (KTMU) hosted a comprehensive training program titled “Training of Educators: Mentoring, Advising, and Student Guidance in Higher Education.”

The program was organized by the KTMU Continuing Education Center as part of academic cooperation between KTMU and Khoja Akhmet Yassawi International Kazakh-Turkish University. The opening ceremony took place at the Kasym Tynystanov Conference Hall. The event was attended by Rector of KTMU Prof. Dr. Alpaslan Ceylan, Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Recai Doğan, and faculty members from both universities.

In his opening address, Rector Prof. Dr. Ceylan recalled that the decision to organize Summer and Winter Schools under the “Training of Educators” initiative was made during the 2nd Joint Senate Meeting held at Khoja Akhmet Yassawi University on May 19, 2025. He expressed his satisfaction that the first step of this collaboration was realized through this Summer School hosted at KTMU.

Prof. Dr. Ceylan emphasized that the partnership between KTMU and Akhmet Yassawi University goes beyond a routine academic event—it represents a convergence of shared educational ideals within the Turkic World. He noted, “Manas University, as a pioneer of academic and scientific development in Central Asia, pursues a holistic educational mission for the youth of the Turkic World. Akhmet Yassawi University, in turn, builds an education model rooted in historical wisdom, blending modern higher education with cultural values.”

He described the seminar as a meaningful beginning where the two institutions unite their expertise to inspire mutual growth. Eight themes were defined for the Summer School, with the inaugural seminar focusing on “Counseling and Guidance” due to its foundational importance. Highlighting the significance of the advisor-student relationship, Prof. Dr. Ceylan stated, “The strength of a university lies not only in its academic output or facilities, but in the strength of its bond with students—a bond that is often forged through academic advising.”

He further remarked that effective guidance involves more than simply transmitting knowledge—it is about accompanying the personal journey of students. “Counseling is the most human and tangible form of this journey. An academic who listens to a student’s concerns and walks with them toward their goals is not only shaping individuals, but also shaping the institution’s future.”

The program, he noted, covered a wide range of areas, from new teaching technologies and ethical sensitivity to communication skills and cultural awareness. He concluded his remarks by expressing confidence that this collaboration would lay the foundation for future joint efforts, including shared curricula, research projects, student exchanges, and innovative education models. Prof. Dr. Ceylan extended his gratitude to all academic and administrative staff who contributed to the program and wished for a productive, horizon-expanding experience for all participants.

Vice Rector of KTMU Prof. Dr. Recai Doğan provided an overview of the seminar structure and topics.

The first day of the training began with lectures and open lectern sessions, offering participants a combination of theoretical insights and practical applications.

In her presentation titled “New Generation Student Profile and Academic Communication,” Dr. Nazira Tursunbaeva analyzed the learning styles, communication expectations, and behavioral patterns of students raised in the digital age. She emphasized that educators must adapt their language and methods to effectively engage today’s learners, blending pedagogical strategies with relevant communication techniques.

Following this, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Aliya Kuralbaeva presented “Roles, Boundaries, and Expectations in Advising,” highlighting the multidimensional nature of academic advising. She stressed that an advisor is not only an academic guide but also a trusted mentor. Clear role definitions, ethical boundaries, and mutual expectations are vital to building a healthy advising relationship.

Subsequent sessions titled “Communication in the Classroom: Is It Easy to Connect with Students?” and “Different Counseling Experiences at Manas and Yassawi Universities” featured interactive discussions. Faculty members exchanged experiences and explored strategies to strengthen faculty-student communication.

The second day focused on the psychosocial dimensions of advising and career guidance. In his presentation, “Approach to Academic and Psychosocial Problems,” Assoc. Prof. Dr. Erkan Efilti addressed the complex challenges university students face, such as academic stress, personal crises, and adaptation difficulties, offering a holistic framework for support.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Seyil Najimudinova followed with a session titled “Career Guidance and Student Targeting.” She discussed the critical role of academic advisors in helping students shape their career paths. Presenting motivational strategies and goal-oriented models, she emphasized that career guidance is not only about choosing a profession but also about fostering personal development.

Panel discussions on “What Do Students Expect from the Future?” and “How Do We Behave in Difficult Situations as Counselors?” allowed participants to compare institutional approaches and co-create culturally sensitive, practical solutions to shared challenges.

The final day featured presentations on advising from international and intercultural perspectives. Dr. Halil Çetin delivered a presentation titled “International and Intercultural Student Advising,” in which he addressed the importance of cultural sensitivity and effective advising in multicultural learning environments.

Prof. Dr. Mehmet Arif Özerbaş’s session, “Ethical Stance and Professional Competencies in Advising,” emphasized that academic advising demands more than academic qualifications. He stated that effective advising requires ethical integrity, emotional intelligence, and clear professional boundaries. According to Prof. Dr. Özerbaş, professional competency in advising is defined not only by academic expertise, but also by empathy and human sensitivity.

Open panel discussions on “Moments of Blurred Boundaries in Ethics and Law” and “Challenges and Best Practices in Intercultural Counseling” enabled participants to share real-world experiences, going beyond theoretical frameworks to explore actionable practices.

The three-day training program, consisting of six main modules, was facilitated by expert faculty members from both institutions. The sessions combined modern instructional techniques, interactive formats, and open exchanges to promote active learning and meaningful engagement. This dynamic approach not only deepened participants knowledge but also enhanced their skills through experiential learning and group collaboration. The program also strengthened academic ties between KTMU and Akhmet Yassawi University.

On June 26, 2025, the program concluded with a formal closing ceremony. Director of the Continuing Education Center, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Erkan Efilti delivered the closing speech, evaluating the outcomes of the training. He noted that post-program survey results showed a high level of participant satisfaction, with many indicating that the duration and content of the program were well balanced and effectively delivered. He highlighted key strengths of the program, including the high level of academic expertise, practical experience sharing, case-based teaching methods, and the productive cooperation between the two universities.

Participants reported gaining new perspectives, particularly in student relations, guidance responsibilities, and academic advising, which will support their continued professional development.

Certificates of appreciation were awarded to the educators who led the sessions. Participation certificates were also presented to attendees in recognition of their engagement and contributions.

The “Training of Educators” program concluded with a group photo session, marking the successful completion of a meaningful and collaborative academic initiative.