Kazakhstan has formally opened the Kazakh National University of Sports and its new campus in Astana after a five-year institutional development programme. The university plans to become a regional centre for sports education, scientific research and innovation. Its opening was the main event of the international forum titled “New Era of Sport: KNUS 2026.”

The forum brought together academics, sports officials and representatives of international federations and the Olympic movement. Participants included Deputy Minister of Tourism and Sports Serik Zharasbayev, United World Wrestling President Nenad Lalovic, International Esports Federation President Vlad Marinescu and World Anti-Doping Agency representative Rafal Pechota. Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov also visited the campus and reviewed its work in sports science, artificial intelligence and rehabilitation.

During its five-year development, the university expanded its international partnerships and improved its capacity for research. It will train coaches, teachers, researchers, sports doctors and managers for professional and community-level sports. KNUS founder Nurasyl Medeu said the institution was established to meet changing needs across the sector and prepare specialists able to work at international standards.

Guests toured research laboratories, innovation centres, digital facilities and sports venues designed to support students and athletes. Lalovic and Marinescu received honorary professorships during the ceremony, while students signed the university charter and pledged to follow academic integrity, fair competition and sports ethics. KNUS aims to increase Kazakhstan’s contribution to international sports education and research.