Kazakhstan's first military oath ceremony unites 448 student recruits in Astana

A historic military oath ceremony took place in Astana this week. For the first time, 448 students from the newly established university military department pledged allegiance to Kazakhstan. The event marked a key moment for the reserve officer training programme, launched in 2024. The ceremony was held at K. Kulazhanov Kazakh University of Technology and Business. Over 440 students, part of a larger group of 448, swore their oath in front of veterans and government officials. The event followed strict military customs, including the raising of the national flag and the singing of the anthem.

The military department trains students from nine Astana universities, such as Nazarbayev University and Maqsut Narikbayev University. To reinforce patriotism, a mobile exhibition from the Military-Historical Museum was set up for attendees. Parents of the highest-achieving students were recognised with letters of thanks from the university president. The occasion also welcomed representatives from Kazakhstan’s Armed Forces and various state bodies.

The ceremony concluded with the students formally entering the reserve officer programme. Their training reflects a broader effort to strengthen military education among young people. The event also highlighted the growing collaboration between universities and Kazakhstan’s defence institutions.