The issue of inclusive education was discussed at the international level

As part of the Science Decade, Kh. Dosmukhamedov Atyrau University hosted an international scientific and practical conference titled “Inclusive Education and Society: Methodology, Research, Practice.”
The event brought together scholars from Kazakhstan, Canada, the United States, and Turkey, as well as representatives of the Atyrau Region Department of Education and educational institutions, the university’s leadership, faculty members, and students.
“…Given the peculiarities of information dissemination in today’s society, I believe that, according to the Dunning-Kruger effect, many people consider themselves experts in the field of inclusive education. In addition, the situation is further complicated by the large number of psychologists who have only completed a few months of online training. That is why I consider today’s forum to be especially relevant. It provides an opportunity to develop scientifically grounded proposals for the inclusion of children with special needs,” noted Beibit Mamrayev, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Kh. Dosmukhamedov Atyrau University, a prominent public and political figure, in his opening remarks.
During the plenary session, national and international scholars discussed global practices in inclusive education and explored the topic of inclusion from various perspectives.
Professor at George Mason University (USA), founder and director of the Consortium for Diversity Research and Practice, Dr. Fred Bemak, in his presentation titled “Inclusive Education: Future Steps in a Changing World,” noted:
“Today, our world is changing rapidly. Such rapid transformations create various threats - both philosophical and financial. These threats primarily affect vulnerable populations, who are at risk of being excluded from access to quality education. In my view, inclusive education could be the solution to these challenges. However, it’s important to consider that the values and perspectives we adhere to sometimes do not align with the actual needs and realities of society. This is something that calls for serious reflection.”
Meanwhile, Professor at Simon Fraser University (Canada), Dr. Robert Williamson, in his presentation on the topic “Developing an International Strategy for Inclusive Education,” emphasized:
“Although there are international agreements defining inclusive education, the concept is interpreted differently depending on the context. These variations hinder comparative research and the development of effective strategies tailored to specific circumstances. To address this issue, the Comparative International Framework for Inclusive Education (CIFIE) was developed.”
Professor at Hacettepe University in Turkey, Dr. Yasemin Özkan, in her presentation titled “Inclusive Education in Turkey from the Perspective of School Social Work,” stated:
“Inclusive education is a fundamental human right and an integral part of children’s rights. It ensures that all children -  regardless of disability, background, or learning needs - have access to quality education within the general education system. Inclusive education contributes to the creation of an inclusive society by promoting equal opportunities, active participation, and respectful attitudes toward diversity.”
The large-scale event also featured insightful presentations by:
— Associate Professor at Western University (Canada) and PhD candidate at Simon Fraser University, Aigerim Shilibekova, who spoke on the topic “Artificial Intelligence and Inclusive Education: A Scientific Perspective on Teachers’ Professional Development”;

— Associate Professor at K. Zhubanov Aktobe Regional University, Candidate of Pedagogical Sciences, Zauresh Imzharova, with a report titled “Online Pedagogy in the Format of Inclusive Blended Learning: Expanding the Horizon of Opportunities”;

— Head of the Department of Inclusive and Special Education at the Methodological Center of the Atyrau Region Department of Education, Gulzhanar Kubeeva, who discussed “Features of Inclusive Education in the Atyrau Region”;

— Vice-Rector for Social Affairs and Youth Policy at Kh. Dosmukhamedov Atyrau University, Candidate of Pedagogical Sciences, Lyailya Koyshygulova, who delivered a report on “Results of a Comparative International Study Focused on the Educational Experience of Children with Special Needs.”
Vice-Rector for Science and International Relations at Kh. Dosmukhamedov Atyrau University, Kansulu Utepkaliyeva, noted:
“As mentioned during the conference, under the leadership of Dr. Robert Williamson, a joint international project was implemented with researchers from Atyrau University on the topic “A Comparative International Study of the Educational Experience of Children with Special Needs.” Over three years, project participants conducted extensive research, gathered international experience, and engaged in exchanges of ideas and practices. On behalf of the university, we express our sincere gratitude to Mr. Robert for his contribution to the successful and fruitful implementation of the international project,” - she said, and officially presented Dr. Robert Williamson with the honorary title of “Honorary Professor of Kh. Dosmukhamedov Atyrau University.”
The foreign scholar expressed heartfelt gratitude to the university team for such an unexpected and pleasant surprise.
At the end of the event, the organizers announced that the conference would continue with breakout sessions and took a group commemorative photo with the participants.