University of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO University)
What is the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)?
On August 16, 2007, at the Bishkek Summit of the Heads of Government of the SCO member states, the Russian Federation proposed the establishment of a university based on a network principle. Following this initiative, systematic work began on developing the concept, plans, and organizational forms of the SCO University through coordination among national authorities responsible for educational development.
The main coordinating body became the SCO Expert Working Group on Cooperation in Education.
Which countries are members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization?
At the Beijing Summit, the participating countries — Kazakhstan, China, Russia, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan — unanimously declared their readiness to launch the SCO University in a pilot mode.
The primary goals and objectives of the Organization include promoting effective regional cooperation in political, trade-economic, cultural-educational, and other fields, as well as maintaining and ensuring peace, security, and stability in the region.
How does the SCO University operate?
The SCO University functions as a network of existing universities in the SCO member states.
In the 2010–2011 academic year, the first intake of students was conducted for key Master’s degree programs in “Energy Engineering” and “IT Technologies.” These areas were selected by KSTU as the most promising for the Kyrgyz Republic. A complete regulatory framework was developed, including a methodology for coordinating Master’s degree programs.
What is required for admission?
KSTU cooperates within the “Energy Engineering” program with the National Research University “Moscow Power Engineering Institute (MPEI)” and within the “IT Technologies” program with ITMO University.
A student wishing to enroll in SCO University programs follows the standard admission procedure for a Master’s degree at KSTU. After enrollment, the Master’s student has two educational pathways. One option is to complete studies both at KSTU and at a partner university, resulting in two diplomas upon graduation. Another option is to complete several courses at one of the SCO partner universities, which will be credited toward the main educational program.
SCO University students study together with the main cohort of students at the selected university. Upon graduation, alumni receive two educational documents — a diploma from the university where the studies were completed and a certificate from the SCO University.
The main trends in educational development in SCO countries emphasize training specialists in modern engineering technologies and nanotechnologies. The key mission of the SCO University is to educate modern-minded youth who, alongside mastering cutting-edge technologies, are raised in the spirit of tolerance and respect for the cultural diversity of other nations.
