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The Current Policy on the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Academic Activities (Policy) has been developed by the Academic Integrity League working group with the aim of establishing clear and fair norms and principles governing the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in the academic field. This document consolidates the experience of three MNU Schools as well as international practices in the use of AI in education. It is recommended for use by universities that are in the process of implementing artificial intelligence into their teaching and research practices or wish to enhance their existing approaches while considering academic integrity and ethical standards.

Project tasks

–       Analysis of Existing Practices: Conduct an analysis of existing practices in the use of Artificial Intelligence in the academic sphere on a global scale.

–       Gathering Opinions and Feedback: Conduct consultations and surveys with experts, educators, and students regarding the use of AI in the academic environment.

–       Policy Development: Create a document titled “Policy on the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Academic Activities” that takes into account the results of the analysis and input from stakeholders.

–       Alignment and Discussion: Hold discussions on the preliminary version of the Policy with stakeholders and gather their feedback.

–       Implementation and Training: Develop a training and support program for universities planning to implement the Policy and ensure its effective adoption.

–       Monitoring and Updates: Establish a monitoring system for compliance with the Policy and regularly update it, considering changes in the field of AI and feedback from users.

Expected Project Outcomes:

–       AI Usage Policy: Development and approval of a Policy that establishes clear norms and principles for the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the academic sphere.

–       Unified Standard: Creation of a common standard for universities, enabling them to use AI while considering academic integrity and ethical standards.

–       Training and Support: Preparation of a training and support program for universities, enabling them to successfully implement the Policy and provide training for staff and students.

–       Academic Integrity Compliance: Improvement in compliance with academic integrity and ethical norms in the use of AI.

–       Monitoring System: Establishment of a monitoring system and Policy updates to keep it current in the future.

–       Global Contribution: Contribution to the development of global standards for AI usage in education and the academic field.

The project aims to establish a framework for the effective and ethical use of Artificial Intelligence in academic activities and ensure their successful implementation in universities.

Working Group:

1. Sergey Pen, Provost MNU
2. Nurgul Makhanbayeva, AIL Project Office Head
3. Arthur Utebayev, PhD, Vice-Dean for Science, Postgraduate Education, and Development, MNU School of Economics
4. Iqboljon Qoraboyev, Associate Professor, MNU International School of Economics
5. Lyubov Sartakova, Senior Lecturer, MNU International School of Economics
6. Nursultan Bazarbay, MNU International School of Economics
7. Abay Abylayuly, PhD, Assistant Professor, MNU Law School
8. Yulia Babaeva, Senior Lecturer, MNU School of Liberal Arts

Этот проект представляет собой образовательную программу обмена опытом университетов-членов лиги для управленческого состава.

Основные результаты за 2022-2023 учебный год:

We are pleased to present to you this initiative, which aims to prepare students for successful and responsible academic activities in higher education institutions.

Project goal:

The goal of our project is to familiarize students with the principles of academic integrity, foster relationships between teachers and students based on mutual respect and trust, develop skills in academic writing culture and ethics, as well as plagiarism prevention. We aim to promote an anti-corruption culture among students, educate them on the effective use of Learning Management Systems (LMS) for learning, and support academic integrity.

What we offer:

–       Educational Programs: We will develop special educational programs and courses to help students understand the principles of academic integrity.

–       Materials and Resources: We will provide access to valuable materials, articles, and resources to help students better grasp academic integrity.

–       Support and Consultation: Our experts will always be ready to assist students in answering questions and resolving situations related to academic integrity.

–       Community: We aim to create a community of students who share common values of academic integrity and support each other in this important aspect of education.

Project Objectives:

–       Introduce students to the concept of academic integrity and its importance in the educational process.

–       Teach students the skills of academic writing.

–       Address issues related to academic integrity and its impact on the educational environment.

–       Provide students with instructions and guidelines for using the Learning Management System (LMS) to effectively participate in the learning process and ensure academic integrity.

Expected results:

–       Improved understanding among students of the significance of academic integrity and its role in their educational experience.

–       Development of academic writing skills and prevention of academic integrity violations among students.

–       Awareness of the importance of combating academic integrity violations in the educational environment and the formation of anti-corruption values.

–       Proficiency in effectively using the Learning Management System (LMS) to participate in the learning process and maintain academic integrity.

We believe that academic integrity is the foundation of successful learning and future professional careers. Join our project and help us create an educational community built on honesty and ethics. Stay tuned for our updates on the website, and together we will take a step towards responsible and successful education!

Below are the main themes of the course and subtopics under each, based on the experience of universities participating in the Academic Integrity League:

№	Institution name	Title of the Main Course and its subtopics.	Responsible persons
1.	Almaty Management University	1. Academic Integrity as a Foundation (Concept, Principles, etc.):–       The concept, principles, and culture of academic integrity-       Types of academic dishonesty-       Consequences of academic integrity violations-       Developing academic integrity during education	Assel Aryn, Vice-Rector for Academic Development.
2.	International Information Technology University	2. Norms and Principles of Interaction Among Educational Process Participants:–       Roles, rights, and responsibilities of educational process participants in the realm of academic integrity-       Culture of relationships among educational process participants-       Resolution of contentious issues and conflicts related to academic violations-       Accountability when principles of academic dishonesty are identified (academic integrity violation cases)	Azharhan Adjibaeva, Head of the Department of Educational and Methodological Activities, Registrar’s Office.
3.	Kazakh British Technical University	3. Culture and Ethics of Academic Writing:–       Practical guidance and recommendations on academic ethics-       Development of research skills in academic writing and source handling-       Application of academic integrity principles in research-       Principles and norms for preventing errors in academic writing, citation rules, and source referencing	Nurganym Eren – Head of the Educational and Methodological Center.
4.	West-Kazakhstan Agrarian Technical University after Zhangir khan	4. Anti-Corruption Culture in Educational Activities:–       Ethical standards and methods for preventing corruption risks in the academic environment-       Fostering a zero-tolerance approach to corruption and promoting anti-corruption values and ethical behavior-       Student surveys (questionnaires)	Seraly Akbar, Director of the “Ruhani Zhangyru” Center.
5	Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan	5. Principles of Working in the LMS System for Students:–       Registration and access to courses in the LMS system-       Utilizing LMS functions for effective learning and interaction-       Maintaining academic integrity when using LMS-       Receiving feedback and support through the system	Aigerim Ibragimova, Chief Expert at the Center for Educational Policy.

The “Guiding Principles for the Academic Integrity League Research and Ethics Committee” project was initiated to establish clear standards and principles governing the activities of the Committee on Scientific and Research Ethics of the Alliance of Higher Education Institutions “Academic Integrity League.” It serves as the foundation for organizing and managing the work of the Committee, setting standards for scientific and research ethics for the Committee members, as well as for researchers and academic staff of the institution. These standards describe the expected conduct and requirements for ethical conduct in research activities.

The goals and objectives serve as a guideline for the work of AIL REC and are aimed at ensuring high standards of ethics and quality in scientific research within the institution.

Goals:

– Promoting ethics in scientific research: The primary goal of AIL REC is to encourage and uphold high ethical standards in the field of scientific research. AIL REC strives to ensure that all research conducted within the institution is morally and ethically justified, adheres to principles of fairness and honesty, and does not violate the rights and interests of research participants, society, and the scientific community.

– Maintaining the institution’s reputation: AIL REC also aims to ensure and maintain the institution’s strong reputation in the field of scientific research. This is achieved by ensuring the adherence to ethical standards and norms in all aspects of scientific research, which contributes to trust from the academic community and society as a whole.

– Promoting education and resource development: AIL REC seeks to promote education and develop resources in the field of research ethics. This includes providing training and support to researchers and students on ethical conduct in research.

– Facilitating innovation and transparency: AIL REC values the importance of innovation and the development of new methods and technologies in scientific research. At the same time, AIL REC emphasizes the importance of transparency in the research process, allowing the public to trust the results of scientific research.

Tasks:

– Development of ethical standards: AIL REC develops and approves ethical standards for scientific research that must be adhered to by all participants in research activities within the institution.

– Review of applications and complaints: AIL REC accepts applications for the review of ethical aspects of scientific research and investigates complaints regarding violations of ethical standards.

– Conducting educational events: AIL REC organizes educational events, seminars, and workshops on research ethics for staff and students.

– Promotion of an ethical culture: AIL REC actively works to create and maintain an ethical culture within the institution, facilitating discussions and awareness of ethical issues.

– Adherence to ethical principles: AIL REC monitors compliance with ethical principles and standards in research and takes action in case of violations.

– Ensuring transparency: AIL REC supports transparency in the research process and promotes the publication of research results following the principles of open science.

– Resource development: AIL REC develops and updates resources such as sample forms, recommendations, and materials on research ethics.

– Collaboration with external parties: AIL REC collaborates with external stakeholders, including professional organizations and the community, to discuss issues related to research ethics.

– Regular updates of principles: AIL REC periodically reviews and updates its principles and standards, taking into account changes in the field of scientific research and societal expectations.

Workgroup:

№	Institution title	Section Number and Title of the Guidelines:	Responsible Person:
1	Maqsut Narikbayev University	Introduction:– Goals and Objectives of the Committee- Context and Necessity of Research Ethics- Key Concepts and Definitions	Nurgul Makhanbayeva, AIL Project Office Head
2	Maqsut Narikbayev University	Composition of the Research Ethics Committee:- General Description of the Committee- Criteria for Selecting Committee Members- Categories of Committee Members  1. Committee Chair  2. Vice Chair  3. Committee Members- Procedure for Appointing Committee Members- Terms of Service for Committee Members- Responsibilities and Duties of Committee Members	Ikboljon Koraboyev, Associate Professor, International School of Economics
3	ZhubanovAktobeRegionalUniversity	Ethical and Quality Criteria for Research   – Norms and Principles of Scientific Ethics   – Informed Consent of Research Participants   – Confidentiality and Data Protection   – Avoiding Plagiarism and Copyright Infringement   – Research Involving Sensitive Information   – Researchers’ Responsibilities for Reporting and Transparency	Zhadyra Makhmetova,Head of Quality Assurance Team
4	Maqsut Narikbayev University	Forms and Instructions for Submission   – General Requirements for Applications   – Format and Structure of Applications   – Required Documents and Materials   – Application Submission Procedure and Review Timelines	Nurgul Makhanbayeva, AIL Project Office Head
5	Karaganda Medical University	Processing and Registration System for Incoming Applications   – Receipt and Registration of Applications   – Archiving and Document Storage   – Monitoring and Tracking Application Status   – Feedback and Notifications	Olga Visternichan, Associate Professor of Internal Medicine Department
6	Almaty Management University	Decision-Making System for Research Approval or Recommendations for Improvement   – Decision-Making Process   – Resolution of Doubts and Further Investigation   – Notification of Final Decisions   – Assessment and Monitoring of Recommendation Implementation	Timur Buldybayev, Director of Information Resource Management

This project aims to disseminate knowledge and raise awareness among the faculty and educational institutions of universities that are members of the League about the importance of academic integrity. It seeks to familiarize them with the norms and principles of academic integrity and the consequences of their violation.

 What we have been done:

– Recorded video lectures on 5 key topics (outlined below);

– Conduct educational events, seminars, and webinars on Academic Integrity;

– Developed and distributed informational materials and resources for educators;

– Support educational institutions in creating and maintaining policies and practices that promote Academic Integrity;

– Promoted the development of a culture of Academic Integrity in member educational institutions of the League.

We believe that Academic Integrity is the foundation of quality education and research. Join our project and help us to create an honest and fair educational community!

Project tasks:

– Examine common violations of Academic Integrity norms and ways to prevent them.

– Present practical assessment criteria that promote honest completion of academic assignments.

– Introduce ethical standards for conducting research and supporting integrity in publications.

– Provide guidance (instructions) on the effective use of the Learning Management System (LMS) to ensure Academic Integrity.

Expected outcomes:

– Increased understanding among practical-oriented faculty members of the importance of Academic Integrity.

– Development of effective assessment criteria that support honesty in academic assignments.

– Improved comprehension of the ethical aspects of scientific research and principles of ethical publication.

– Enhanced skills in utilizing the Learning Management System (LMS) to ensure Academic Integrity in the educational process.

Below are the main themes of the course, with four subtopics for each based on the experience of member universities of the Academic Integrity League:

№	Institutions title	Titles of main courses and its subtopics	Responsible persons
1.	NKU named after M. Kozybayev	1. Academic Integrity as a Foundation:–       The Culture of Academic Integrity in the university community.-       The concept and principles of academic integrity.-       Academic policies of higher education institutions.	1. Karlygash Yessekenova, Sanaly Urpak Project Office Compliance officer (in Kazakh)2. Inna Djemalidenova, Senior Compliance officer (in Russian)
2.	University of International Business named after K. Sagadiyev	2. Academic Integrity Standards. Violation of Norms and Principles:–       Regulatory framework for academic integrity at the university.-       Types and forms of violations of academic integrity.-       Syllabus.-       Criteria for posting course materials while adhering to the principles of academic integrity.	Kenzhekhan Kabdesov, Head of the Quality Assurance Centre (in Kazakh and Russian)
3.	Aktobe Regional University named after K. Zhubanov	3. Assessment Criteria:–       Principles and functions of criterion-based assessment.-       Development of transparent assessment policies and criteria.-       The relationship between learning objectives and assessment methods.	1. Aigulden Togaibayeva, Associate Professor, Candidate of Pedagogical Sciences (in Kazakh)2. Zauresh Imzharova, Associate Professor, Candidate of Pedagogical Sciences (in Russian)
4.	Maqsut Narikbayev University	4. Ethics in Scientific Research:–       Integrity and conscientiousness in conducting scientific research.-       Fundamentals of research ethics.-       Adherence to ethical rules when working with data.-       Publication ethics and copyright.  5. Principles of Working in an LMS (Learning Management System):–       Key functional capabilities of the LMS system to support academic integrity.-       Access management to materials and assignments.-       Utilizing anti-plagiarism systems within the LMS.-       Monitoring student activity and detecting violations of academic integrity.	1. Abai Abylaiuly, Adjunct Assistant Professor, Director for the “International law” of the Higher School of Law (каз.)2. Ester Babadjanyan, Professor, Head for the Jurisprudence of the Higher School of Law (in Russian ) 1. Ansar Utegenov, Head of Academic Quality Assurance Office, Yakov Voronkov, Head of  the Academic Integrity League Secretariate (in Russian)2. Noorgul Makhanbayeva, Academic Integrity League Project Office Head (in Kazakh)

The current “Quality Assurance Guidelines for Universities” (Guidelines) have been developed by the working group of the Academic Integrity League as a document defining the key parameters and guidelines for establishing a quality control system for the educational process and internal academic management. These Guidelines amalgamate the experience of League member universities, based on the implementation of ESG (European Standards and Guidelines), as well as the best international practices in academic management in higher education. They are recommended for use by universities in the process of transforming or establishing an academic quality management system.

Project Goal:

Our main goal is to create a comprehensive guide that will assist universities in establishing an academic quality management system within their institutions, ultimately enhancing the quality of higher education. We aim to enable educational institutions to provide students with the highest level of education, meeting the most rigorous standards, by implementing the various steps outlined in this Guide.

What we plan to do:

–       Developing detailed recommendations for enhancing the quality of educational programs.

–       Creating methods for assessing and ensuring the quality of educational processes.

–       Providing valuable resources and tools to help universities optimize their operations.

–       Supporting the achievement of academic integrity and improving the effectiveness of education.

We believe that education is a crucial element in the development of society. With this project, we aim to enhance education and make it more accessible and of higher quality for everyone.

Stay tuned for our updates on the website, and we will soon share the results of this important work!

Working group:

№	Institution title	Number and Title of the Guidelines:	Responsible Person
1	Maqsut Narikbayev University	Section No. 2 “Quality Assurance Framework and Context”Section No. 3 “Policy Development Process”Section No. 4 “Types of Required Policies”Section No. 5 “Establishing Specific Roles and Positions”Section No. 6 “Quality Assurance Committees”Section No. 11 “Duties and Responsibilities of Stakeholders”Section No. 13 “Procedure for Making Changes to the Quality Assurance Guidelines”	Sergey Pen, ProvostNurgul Makhanbayeva, AIL Project Office Head
2	University of International business named after K. Sagadiyeva	Section No. 10 “Utilizing Digitization in Quality Assurance”	Kenzhekhan Kabdessov, Head of Quality Assurance Office
3	K. Satpayev Kazakh National Research Technical University	Section No. 7 “Quality Assurance Indicators”	Asel Sankabaeva, Head of the Student Registration Department, Registrar’s Office
4	S. Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University	Section No. 6 “Quality Assurance Committees”	Aigul Abylgazina, Head of the Academic Qualiy Department.
5	Karaganda Medical University	Section No. 8 “Quality Assurance Monitoring Levels”Section No. 9 “Internal and External Evaluation”Section No. 10 “Utilizing Digitization in Quality Assurance”	Victor Riklefs, Vice-Rector for Strategic Development and International Cooperation
6	K. Zhubanov Aktobe Regional University	Section No. 10 “Utilizing Digitalization in Quality Assurance”	Zhadyra Makhmetova, Head of Quality Assurance Team
7	M. Kozybayev North Kazakhstan University	Section No. 7 “Quality Assurance Indicators”Section No. 12 “Quality Enhancement Initiatives”	Marina Pogrebitskaya, Director of the Department of Strategy and Development.
8	Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan	Section No. 6 “Quality Assurance Committees”Section No. 7 “Quality Assurance Indicators”	Aigerim Ibragimova, Chief Expert at the Center for Educational Policy.

Introduction:

We present a new stage in the development of the academic integrity assurance system at universities — the transition to the updated Academic Integrity League Standard.

Previously, university monitoring was carried out on the basis of 105 criteria, which allowed the formation of a stable assessment practice and the accumulation of significant experience. However, in the course of this work, it became clear that the modern academic integrity system requires not only quantitative assessment, but also a deeper qualitative transformation of universities.

In this regard, the Academic Integrity League decided to update the Standard, drawing on international approaches to the institutionalization of academic integrity. The new Standard is structured around 7 key blocks and 39 criteria, which reflect a systemic and holistic approach to building a culture of integrity within universities.

A distinctive feature of the new approach is the emphasis not only on the existence of processes, but also on their level of maturity — from the initial stage to the transformational stage, at which academic integrity becomes an integral part of the university’s culture.

University monitoring is organized by the Project Office of the Academic Integrity League. Each month, an expert commission is formed with the participation of representatives from League member universities, ensuring objectivity, professionalism, and the exchange of experience.

The results of the monitoring of League member universities are available through this link (free for members).

Objective:

The primary goal of the League is systematic and regular monitoring of universities based on 39 criteria, aimed at the institutionalization of academic integrity and the development of a sustainable culture of integrity in higher education.

Additionally, based on the monitoring results, 4 levels are formed — starting, emerging, developing, transforming — which reflect the development levels of universities, showcase best practices, and stimulate qualitative change.

What We Offer:

1. Monitoring across 39 criteria within 7 blocks

The new Standard covers the key areas of academic integrity institutionalization:

• Administrative leadership and support
• Faculty engagement and support
• Student engagement and support
• Staff engagement and support
• Education and communication
• Policies and procedures
• Research and assessment

— Comprehensive assessment: Monitoring makes it possible to determine not only the existence of processes, but also their level of development — from initial to transformational.

— Individual reports and recommendations: Each university receives a detailed report with analysis across all blocks and criteria, as well as practical recommendations for further development.

— Accessibility of results for League member universities: Monitoring results become available to the academic community, fostering trust and openness.

2. Increasing transparency

— Informed participation of students and staff: The university community gains the opportunity to see real steps and progress in the development of academic integrity.

3. Experience sharing and community development

— Professional expert interaction: Monitoring creates a unique environment for interaction among experts from different universities.

— Best practices platform: Reports, including photo and video documentation, as well as university case studies, form a repository of successful solutions and approaches.

— Educational events: The League organizes webinars, masterclasses, and study visits aimed at developing specific processes within universities.

We are confident that the updated Standard will be an important step toward the deep institutionalization of academic integrity, the enhancement of educational quality, and the formation of a strong professional community of universities.

Stay tuned for our updates and become part of the systemic changes in higher education!