On May 21, AlmaU and the National Association for Public Relations of the Republic of Kazakhstan (NASO RK) signed a memorandum of cooperation.
From now on, AlmaU graduates will be able to undergo national certification for PR specialists while completing their university studies. The signing ceremony took place during the 22nd International PR Forum.
AlmaU became the first higher education institution in Kazakhstan to implement the official NASO RK certification program. Students of the “Public Relations” educational program and young professionals with up to three years of experience will have the opportunity to take the entry-level certification exam (PR Specialist – Foundation), confirming their readiness for real work in the communications industry.
“This is an important step for the entire industry. We are moving from diplomas to verified professional competencies. The NASO RK certificate will become a clear and reliable indicator of a specialist’s training quality for employers,” noted Assel Karaulova, Chairperson of the NASO RK Council.
Three levels of NASO RK national certification:
• PR Specialist – Foundation – for entry-level specialists (0-3 years);
• PR Expert – for practicing PR managers (3-10 years);
• PR Industry Leader – for executives and industry leaders (10+ years).
The certification program was developed in accordance with the National Qualifications Framework of Kazakhstan, international standards (CIPR, IPRA), and current market demands, including ethical AI use, ESG communications, and GR.
Timur Buldybayev, Rector of AlmaU:
“We are proud that AlmaU has become the first partner of NASO RK. It is important for us that our graduates enter the profession not only with a diploma, but also with verified proof of their competencies. This marks a new level of integration between the university and the industry.”
The signing of the memorandum is part of NASO RK’s systematic work to improve professional standards and combat unfair practices in the educational and consulting services market. National certification creates a transparent qualification assessment mechanism that protects both specialists and employers.
For employers, the NASO RK certificate will serve as additional confirmation of a candidate’s professionalism and compliance with current industry requirements.