The shortage of student dormitory places remains a pressing issue for every region in Kazakhstan.
This issue is particularly acute in Kazakhstan's two largest cities, Astana and Almaty, where the country's leading universities are concentrated. The reduction of the student accommodation deficit is addressed through state programs and is generally a priority for the education system.
Consistent efforts to reduce the student housing shortage are delivering results. The situation in Almaty is especially notable. According to the Youth Policy Department of Almaty, the dormitory deficit has been reduced nearly fourfold—from 23.7 thousand to 5.7 thousand places. By the start of the new academic year, over 61,000 places in dormitories, hostels, and hotels have been prepared in Almaty. According to statistics from the city's Youth Policy Department, 221,000 students are studying in Almaty's 35 universities, with nearly 150,000 of them coming from other regions. The number of students is growing annually, as is the demand for affordable student housing.
Renovation Projects
Equally important is the task of improving student living conditions. Urban projects across Kazakhstan are undertaking the renovation of student dormitories. A prime example is the comprehensive reconstruction of the Student House No.1 at ALT University, totaling over 2.6 thousand square meters and accommodating 487 places. The project also includes the reconstruction of the adjacent area. The official opening of the complex took place on August 22, 2026. Work on the site began in September 2025.
ALT University's Student House No.1 is a project of an entirely new format, designed to provide all the conditions for comfortable living, studying, and relaxation. Rooms include separate sleeping and study areas as well as small kitchens for students to manage their own lives. The building features reading and fitness rooms, showers, changing rooms, a workout area, a football field, and a snack bar for leisure and activities. Additionally, the dormitory includes utility rooms with refrigerators and dispensers, a laundry room, a medical office, and storage areas for luggage and personal belongings. ALT University's management allocated over 1 billion tenge for this renovation. The project was implemented with the support of Nurbank and the Damu Fund under the state program 'Economy of Simple Things,' aimed at infrastructure projects. ALT University and Nurbank are implementing joint projects totaling 8.6 billion tenge.
'As a private university, we see investments in student infrastructure as a long-term investment in human capital. It is impossible to create a truly quality educational and social environment alone. Partners who share our values and vision are particularly important here. We are grateful to Nurbank for their trust and years of collaboration, sharing our commitment to creating new opportunities for the youth. The opening of the renovated Student House is an example of such cooperation. I am confident that our partnership will continue to develop and that joint projects will contribute not only to creating comfortable conditions for students but also to preparing professionals who are in demand in Kazakhstan's economy,' commented Meruert Zharmagambetova, Chairperson of the Board - Rector of ALT University.
Plans for Further Student Housing Renovation
The ALT University infrastructure also includes Student Houses No.2, No.3, and No.4. The next to undergo reconstruction in May 2027 is Student House No.2, with completion and operation expected by August 20, 2027. Subsequently, similar renovations will update Student Houses No.3 and No.4, with planned operational readiness by the fall of 2029. ALT University plans to allocate up to 4 billion tenge for the renovation of these facilities. Upon completion of the reconstruction project, Student Houses No.2, No.3, and No.4 will accommodate over 1,800 students.
Safety is a priority for ALT University. In the renovated Student House No.1, an additional system has been installed to prevent unauthorized access.
Crisis Center for Students
A student crisis center, with support from the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Kazakhstan and the city administration of Almaty, has been operating for four years based in Student House No.1 at ALT University (108a Maulenov Street, Almaty), providing 50 places.
'The crisis center is intended for students in need of temporary accommodation and additional social, psychological, or consultative support. Students from universities in Almaty can seek assistance regardless of their place of study,' explained Meruert Zharmagambetova.
Reliable Financial Partnership
Nurbank places great importance on supporting key educational initiatives. Across various regions of Kazakhstan, the bank is financing projects aimed at modernizing the material and technical base of educational institutions, implementing modern educational solutions, and enhancing the learning process. Additionally, for over 12 years, Nurbank has been running its own social project, 'Ticket to Life,' aimed at providing quality education opportunities for graduates of children's institutions and young people without parental care.
'Nurbank and ALT University have a longstanding productive collaboration. During this period, we have jointly implemented several significant projects focused on strengthening and modernizing the university's material and technical base. We highly value our established partnership with ALT University and see great potential for its further development. We are confident that investments in education and the development of the new generation are key to our country's strong and successful future. Today's students will shape the country's economy, introduce new technologies, and determine its long-term competitiveness,' noted Alexey Majuga, Acting Chairman of the Board of Nurbank JSC.
ALT University is a leading higher education institution preparing specialists in transport, construction, energy, mechanical engineering, IT, logistics, and economics. Today, ALT University successfully combines education, research activities, and technology. The university is part of the international QS World University Rankings: Asia 2026. Over 7,500 students study at the university through 129 bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs. The university focuses heavily on practice-oriented education, including elements of dual education and professional practice in leading enterprises of the country. The university fosters cooperation with major industrial companies and is known for its international projects.
License (Universal Banking License) for banking and other operations No. 1.1.849/146 from 17.08.2026 issued by ARRFR. License for securities market activities No. 1.2.15/193 from 03.02.2020 issued by ARRFR.
Source: https://dknews.kz/ru/v-strane/402483-bolshe-chem-obshchezhitie-kak-nurbank-i-alt