A roundtable titled “Global Trends in Inclusive Education: Challenges and Solutions” was held in Almaty as part of the first World Congress on Inclusive Education.

The event brought together Minister of Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan Zhuldyz Suleimenova, Minister of Education and Science of the Republic of Tajikistan Saidzoda Rahim Hamro, members of the Mazhilis (lower house of Kazakhstan’s Parliament), the Deputy Akim of Almaty, as well as international experts and representatives of governmental and civil society organizations.

During the roundtable, Minister Zhuldyz Suleimenova emphasized that under the initiative of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Kazakhstan is undergoing significant educational reforms aimed at building a fair and inclusive society. Key areas of focus include ensuring equal access to quality education, improving legal frameworks, developing infrastructure, fostering a culture of inclusion, and supporting the professional development of educators.

“In Kazakhstan, special emphasis is placed on the use of artificial intelligence and comprehensive support for children with special educational needs. The foundation of inclusion lies in human values: respect, acceptance, and support. In light of today’s global challenges and trends, we call for joint efforts to enhance education content, develop effective strategies, exchange experiences, and strengthen support mechanisms,” the Minister stated.

Saidzoda Rahim Hamro, Minister of Education and Science of the Republic of Tajikistan, shared his country’s experience in advancing inclusive practices. Datuk Dr. Habibah Abdul Rahim, Director of the SEAMEO Secretariat, spoke about regional cooperation and experiences in Southeast Asia. Amir Piric, Director of the UNESCO Almaty Regional Office, highlighted UNESCO’s role in promoting inclusive and equitable education. Nora Shabani, UNICEF Regional Education Advisor, presented an overview of inclusive education development across Europe and Central Asia.

Daniel Sobel, President of the International Forum of Inclusion Practitioners (IFIP), shared global practices and school support approaches. Lubna Belabbes from Morocco’s Ministry of Education outlined national efforts to make education more accessible. Vafa Misirovna Yagublu, Deputy Director of Azerbaijan’s State Agency for Preschool and General Education, and Melisa Mizdrak from the Sarajevo Canton Ministry of Education, presented the experiences of their countries and regions. Chris Blayney, a representative of Google for Education, showcased technological solutions to support inclusive education globally. Renowned architect Takaharu Tezuka, known for designing Fuji Kindergarten, also shared his insights and experience.

The participants concluded the event by discussing the Almaty Declaration on Inclusive Education.

It is worth noting that Kazakhstan currently operates 110 Psychological-Medical-Pedagogical Consultations (PMPCs) and 509 specialized institutions focused on early identification of children with special educational needs or those at risk. More than 1,000 support rooms have been established in schools, where over 29,000 professionals — including more than 10,000 special educators — provide psychological and pedagogical assistance.