On January 14, 2026, the Department of Smart Technologies in Engineering of the International Engineering and Technology University held an academic and methodological conference within the framework of the Winter School–2026 on the topic “Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education: Quality and the New Role of the Lecturer.”
The event became a significant platform for exchanging experiences and discussing current issues related to the digital transformation of higher education.

The head of the department, M.K. Baktybayeva, delivered a keynote and programmatic report titled “Integration of End-to-End Digital Technologies into Interdisciplinary Engineering Projects: Methodological Aspects of Digital Engineering.” In her speech, she emphasized the importance of developing digital competencies among future engineers and the need to integrate modern technologies into the university’s educational programs.

Lecturer B. Turdybek gave a presentation on “Integration of Artificial Intelligence into Educational Projects on Robotics.” He highlighted the practical significance of using AI in engineering disciplines and presented examples of successful educational projects incorporating elements of robotics and machine learning.

Associate Professor M.Zh. Adambaev presented a scientific report titled “Development of a Method for Adequate Identification of Complex Energy Control Objects.” In his speech, he addressed the pressing issues of modeling and controlling complex energy systems, emphasizing the role of intelligent identification methods in improving the efficiency of engineering solutions.

Arman Yerzhanovich Smakhanov, a representative of LLP “ComEngineering”, delivered a report titled “Optical Technologies Using Artificial Intelligence.” He shared practical experience in applying intelligent optical systems and highlighted the prospects for collaboration between the university and industrial partners.

Lecturer T.S. Pristennaya presented a report on “Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things (IoT).” She showcased examples of IoT technology applications in educational and research projects, noting the potential of integrating AI and IoT to create a new-generation digital engineering ecosystem.

The conference reaffirmed the proactive role of the Department of Smart Technologies in Engineering in promoting digitalization and artificial intelligence in the educational process, marking an important stage in professional dialogue within the framework of the Winter School–2026.