On January 12, 2026, the Department of Biochemical Engineering opened an educational and methodological conference within the framework of Winter School–2026 entitled “Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education: Quality and the New Role of the Teacher.”

The conference served as a professional platform for discussing modern approaches to the digital transformation of the educational process, the implementation of artificial intelligence tools in higher education, as well as rethinking the role of the teacher in a digital environment.

The welcoming and keynote address was delivered by E.V. Solodova, Head of the Department of Biochemical Engineering, Candidate of Biological Sciences, and Corresponding Member of the National Academy of Engineering of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Her presentation was entitled “Innovative Educational Technologies in Training Specialists in Biochemical Engineering and Technosphere Safety: The Role of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence.”

In her speech, she outlined key directions for the development of educational programs, emphasizing the integration of digital technologies and AI as a factor in improving the quality of specialist training.

A presentation entitled “Integration of Science and Teaching Using Artificial Intelligence” was delivered by I.S. Korotetsky, Research Professor, Candidate of Biological Sciences, Professor, and Head of the Virology Laboratory at the National Center for Anti-Infective Drugs. The report focused on practical experience in using AI tools to bridge scientific research and the educational process, as well as on developing students’ research competencies.

G.S. Sarybayeva, Lecturer and Master of Technical Sciences, presented a report on “Theoretical and Practical Foundations for the Use of Innovative Artificial Intelligence Elements in Teaching Methodology,” which examined methodological approaches and examples of AI application in classroom and independent student work.

The plenary session concluded with a presentation by A.Sh. Mamilov, Associate Professor and Candidate of Biological Sciences, entitled “Overcoming Compilation in Student Assignments Using Artificial Intelligence.” The report addressed issues of academic integrity, quality control of student work, and the potential of AI as a tool for enhancing independent learning.

The educational and methodological conference confirmed the active position of the Department of Biochemical Engineering in implementing digitalization and artificial intelligence in the educational process and became an important stage of professional dialogue within the framework of Winter School–2026.