On September 30, 2026, Almaty Management University hosted an open lecture by Professor Alexander Sidorkin entitled “Why Do We Need Artificial Intelligence: The Relational University at AlmaU.”
The event was organized by the Strategic Development Department of AlmaU and served as a platform for discussing the impact of artificial intelligence on the development of modern universities, educational processes, and the transformation of the academic environment. Alexander Sidorkin is a Professor at California State University, Sacramento, a specialist in the field of artificial intelligence in education, philosophy of education, and pedagogical innovations. His research is devoted to the transformation of universities, changes in the role of the teacher, and the implementation of artificial intelligence in the educational process.
In the lecture, Professor presented the concept of the relational university — a model at the center of which are the relationships between the teacher and the student. According to the expert, the massification of higher education has led to an increase in the number of students, but at the same time reduced opportunities for individual interaction, mentoring, and meaningful feedback.
Particular attention was paid to the role of artificial intelligence in solving this problem. AI can take on part of routine and administrative tasks, help in preparing educational materials, analyzing information, and organizing the educational process. At the same time, technologies should not replace the teacher, but free up their time for individual work with students, consulting, and mentoring.
The open lecture was attended by the leadership of AlmaU, deans, representatives of the teaching staff, and other interested listeners. The presentation generated active interest among the audience. Participants asked questions about the practical application of AI in the educational process, changes in the role of the teacher, new formats of education, and the prospects for the development of universities in the context of technological transformation.
The lecture became a platform for professional discussion of the opportunities and limitations of artificial intelligence, as well as its role in shaping a human-centered educational environment.