Astana, Kazakhstan, the second coldest capital in the world, is the home of Nazarbayev University Here, Duke University - The Fuqua School of Business has invested 15 years collaborating with Kazakhstan to establish the region’s first research-focused business school Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Business. This ongoing partnership has many stories worth telling, and I intend on sharing them bit by bit. While my primary aim is self-reflection on lessons I have learned, I have little interest or discipline that would lead to a private journal, so I will share them here with my network and others who may find them valuable. In 2009 A small group of dedicated and talented Kazakhstani individuals were tasked with Central Asia’s most ambitious educational project: to build a research university capable of competing with the best Western universities regarding research output, student quality, and global impact. This journey is marked by challenges and obstacles, both anticipated and unforeseen, all of which this team has and continues to address over time. This year, Nazarbayev University welcomed its 11th Executive MBA and 10th MBA classes, expanding its network to over 500 graduates representing key leaders and decision-makers in Kazakhstan. The Fuqua School of Business is nearing the milestone of teaching 150 courses to these students. On the research front, NUGSB continues to attract top-tier research faculty. Year after year, their work is published in the leading journals of their respective fields. The most essential and obvious lesson is that solving ambitious, complex, and challenging problems requires assembling the best team. From my experience, Kazakhstan chose some of the most dedicated, talented, and ambitious individuals to build this institution. As I write today, it some of these individuals return to the university, a real testament to the ambition and dedication of this group. On Duke’s end, I have had the tremendous honor of working closely with faculty and staff who brought their unique talents and expertise. Yet, the attribute I grew to appreciate most, and hope to emulate, is an intense curiosity and commitment to figuring out how to translate Duke’s values, dedication to quality, and academic excellence to Kazakhstan. Many of you in my network have also played a significant role in this project, and I hope you will all engage with me throughout these posts. If you have any questions, curiosities, or observations, please share them—your input will guide my focus. Otherwise, be prepared for a journey steered by my whims. post 2 partnership: https://lnkd.in/e55JXUsU post 3 the complexity of a university: https://lnkd.in/eHVGt_Ju
Thanks, Robert, this is very useful. Having spent nine years at NU, our partners’ stories and insights about the journey will be very interesting
That's a great idea, Robert! And the journey has been remarkable!
Very interesting series of posts! Thank you for all your hard work in making the lectures so enjoyable and informative, we loved your class back in 2020.
Thank you. This story is always so inspiring to hear 🎉
Fantastic news, Robert, and thank you for sharing such an inspiring story! NUGSB has ascended to the top spot as the #1 research-intensive business school not only in Kazakhstan but across the entire Eurasia region. Achieving AMBA and BGA accreditation last November marks a significant milestone. There’s so much to say about its remarkable journey since its inception in 2013! The strategic partnership with Fuqua has undoubtedly played a crucial role. I’m looking forward to collaborating in the next phase and gaining more of your insights!
Robert you have been an integral part of this journey. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with you since 2011 when we first met. Your dedication to this partnership and school has been tremendous and I look forward to the next phase of the partnership and continued successes.
Great idea Robert !!! You and your colleagues at Fuqua have always been an integral part of the journey! May it go on for a long long time !!
Inspiring
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